The NBA playoffs are expected to go into October.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the finals will conclude with game seven if necessary October 12 under the proposed format, which will feature 22 teams returning for games during the coronavirus pandemic.
That means the NBA will have to compete with the NFL and college football for eyeballs. (RELATED: David Hookstead Is The True King In The North When It Comes To College Football)
ESPN Sources: As the NBA models a 22-team format for a July 31 resumption in Orlando, the proposed timeline for teams as the last possible date for an NBA Finals Game 7: October 12.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 2, 2020
Going into early September is a pill most people probably could have swallowed without much of an issue. However, going into October is not a great idea for the NBA.
Professional basketball is going to get crushed in the TV ratings department when it gets put up against the NFL and college football.
It won’t even be close.
This country loves football substantially more than the NBA. It’s not a tough call at all. Putting the NBA finals in October is a great way to make sure nobody watches.
I like Adam Silver a lot, and I think he’s a very intelligent guy. However, this move is just stupid.
Having said that, it will be great to have the NBA back. I’m ready to get as many sports as possible back in my life!
Will people watch the NBA finals? Probably not under the proposed format but at least sports will be back!