The 2022 NBA Playoffs are just around the corner, but before the end of season action can begin, the NBA needs to finalise those playoff spots in the Eastern and Western conferences.
Traditionally, the top eight seeds in each conference would make the NBA Playoffs. However, this changed last season, when the NBA Play-In Tournament was introduced.
But how does the NBA Play-In Tournament work? And when will the 2022 Play-Ins begin?
What is the NBA Play-In Tournament?
The NBA Play-In Tournament was introduced in 2021 and features the sides finishing 7th-10th in both the Eastern and Western Conferences.
Prior to the first round of the playoffs, the team with the 7th-highest win percentage in each conference will host the team with the 8th-highest win percentage. The winner of that match will earn their spot in the playoffs and be handed the No. 7 seed.
On the other side of the Play-In, the team with the 9th-highest win percentage will host the team with the 10th-highest win percentage. The winner of that match will then travel to take on the loser of the 7th/8th match. The winner of that match will earn the final place in the playoffs, being named the No. 8 seed.
When is the 2022 NBA Play-In Tournament?
The NBA Play-In Tournament will begin on Tuesday, April 12th and will end on Friday, April 15th.
Unlike the NBA Playoffs, in which each tie is comprised of a seven-game series, the Play-In will be a one-match shootout between the sides involved.
Who Will Feature in the 2022 NBA Play-In?
As things stand, there are six teams in contention to feature in the Eastern Conference Play-In tournament. They are as follows:
- 5. Chicago Bulls
- 6. Toronto Raptors
- 7. Cleveland Cavaliers
- 8. Atlanta Hawks
- 9. Charlotte Hornets
- 10. Brooklyn Nets
The Western Conference Play-In is a little more complex, with seven sides still vying for a place in the Playoffs.
- 5. Denver Nuggets
- 6. Utah Jazz
- 7. Minnesota Timberwolves
- 8. LA Clippers
- 9. New Orleans Pelicans
- 10. San Antonio Spurs
- 11. Los Angeles Lakers
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