“Cooper Flagg’s move to the Eastern Conference is critical to NBA balance”

The NBA is facing a severe talent imbalance between its conferences, and Cooper Flagg, a generational prospect from Duke, should join the Eastern Conference to address that problem. With the Western Conference dominating the past few seasons and boasting more All-NBA players for 26 years, Flagg’s introduction to the already competitive West could exacerbate inequality. The current position at the start of the season reflects this imbalance; Only two of the Eastern teams have a winning record, while Western teams dominate the overall performance. For a healthier league, Flagg’s move to the East is crucial as both he and Victor Wembanyama represent the future of the sport.

Through the numbers

• Only two teams in the Eastern Conference have winning records: Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics.
• Western Conference teams win over 70% of their games against the East.
• 8 of the NBA’s 10 best records come from Western teams.

Yes but

While many fans want to see Flagg play regardless of conference, the current competitive imbalance poses a significant problem for the future of the league. The strength of the Western Conference team means that a superstar in the East can realign the competitive dynamic and create a better one could create an environment for all teams.

state of affairs

• The Eastern Conference is struggling heading into the 2024-2025 season with most teams at or below .500.
• The Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks, preseason contenders, are currently underperforming.

What’s next?

As Flagg prepares for the 2025 NBA Draft, discussions surrounding his conference ranking are intensifying. Landing in the East could help revitalize the conference’s competitiveness and allow for a more balanced league going forward.

Conclusion

Adding Cooper Flagg to the Eastern Conference is paramount to restoring competitive balance in the NBA, as the league risks further inequities if top talent is concentrated in the West. Expanding the East’s roster could create a more fun and competitive environment that will benefit the entire league.