NBA to Change Recording of End-of-Period Heaves for 2025-26 Season

What's Happening?

The NBA has announced a change for the 2025-26 season regarding how unsuccessful end-of-period heaves are recorded. According to sources, these long-distance shots will now be counted as a missed field-goal attempt for the team rather than the individual player. This adjustment aims to prevent these heaves from negatively impacting a player's shooting percentages, which can be a concern for players and teams alike.

Why It's Important?

This change reflects the NBA's ongoing efforts to refine statistical recording and ensure fair representation of player performance. By attributing missed heaves to the team instead of individual players, the league acknowledges the unique nature of these shots, which are often taken under pressure and without the usual strategic setup. This decision may influence how players approach end-of-period situations, potentially leading to more strategic play and less concern over personal statistics.

What's Next?

The implementation of this change may lead to discussions among teams and players about strategies for end-of-period plays. Coaches might adjust their tactics to optimize team performance without worrying about individual shooting percentages. Additionally, this change could prompt further evaluations of other statistical recording practices in the NBA, as the league continues to evolve its approach to game analytics.

Beyond the Headlines

This adjustment in statistical recording could have broader implications for how player performance is evaluated and compensated. It may influence contract negotiations and player assessments, as shooting percentages are a key metric in player evaluations. The change also highlights the NBA's responsiveness to player concerns and its commitment to maintaining fairness in statistical representation.