And a Google AI answer to the question many of us have... Has an NBA team with the worst chances in the draft ever won the first pick? Search Labs | AI Overview Yes, NBA teams with the worst draft lottery odds have won the first pick, with notable examples being the Orlando Magic in 1993 and the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014, despite having slim chances. Here's a more detailed look: NBA Draft Lottery: The NBA uses a weighted lottery system to determine the draft order, where teams with worse records have a higher chance of landing a top pick. Unlikely Winners: The Orlando Magic, despite having a 1.7% chance, won the 1993 lottery, and the Cleveland Cavaliers, with a 1.7% chance, won the 2014 lottery, securing the top pick. Other Examples: The Chicago Bulls in 2008, with 1.7% odds, also won the lottery, jumping from ninth to first. Atlanta Hawks in 2024, despite having a 10th position before the draft, won the lottery and secured the first overall pick.
While yes, sample size and whatever else people can say, maybe having the kind of players your coach wants to play his style helps. Id rather have Matisse than Nance Jr too.
