Last week, the NBA’s projected return date was announced. When that news came out, we all went and circled July 31st on our calendars. That gave us the when, and we already knew the where (Disney World), so we were just waiting on the how. Today, the NBA made the announcement on the format that will be voted on and likely passed tomorrow.
Who is Headed to Orlando?
The NBA is inviting 22 teams to Orlando to finish the season. The 16 teams who were in playoff positions when play was suspended, as well as 6 teams on the outside looking in. From the East, the Washington Wizards get the invite. From the West, the Pelicans, Blazers, Suns, Kings, and Spurs are joining Mickey Mouse and the gang in Orlando.
The Format
The format is one that every fan should be happy with. When play resumes, each team will play eight regular season games. The top seven teams will then advance to the playoffs. However, should the eighth seed have a four game or larger lead on the ninth seed, they advance to the playoffs as well. If not, there will be a play-in tournament. In the play-in tourney, it will be double elimination for the eighth seed and single elimination for the ninth seed.
NBA Is Back
Play is expected to resume on July 31st with a game 7 of the Finals being on October 12th, should it come to that. THE NBA IS BACK, LADIES AND GENTS! Hold it.
