Despite LeBron James wanting the person who came up with the play-in round to be fired, it looks more like commissioner Adam Silver may promote that employee. The seven vs. eight matchup with a playoff spot on the line between LA and the Warriors was the second-most watched NBA game this season. League sources told ESPN extra games aren’t likely to disappear for upcoming seasons as the concept has been a huge success.
Not only does the game create an extra layer of intrigue leading into the final eight seedings, but it also makes many games more important down the stretch.