The NBA could move closer to expansion this offseason, with league owners reportedly preparing to vote on adding two new franchises.
Veteran reporter Brad Townsend shared the latest development Sunday, writing on X: “Think it’s going to be an extra-great year for Seattle. I’m hearing NBA Board of Governors likely to vote on expanding by two teams this summer and Las Vegas and Seattle are favored.”
Expansion has remained a long-term topic around the league, and Townsend’s report signals potential momentum toward formal action after years of discussion about market growth and scheduling balance. The NBA currently operates with 30 teams, split evenly between the Eastern and Western conferences.
From a basketball perspective, adding two franchises would reshape competitive structure, roster distribution and conference alignment. The Western Conference already features a crowded playoff race led by the Oklahoma City Thunder (40-13) and San Antonio Spurs (36-16), while several teams near the play-in line sit within a few games of each other.
Seattle has long been linked to expansion because of its established fan base and history with the former SuperSonics, a franchise that relocated in 2008. Las Vegas has gained traction in recent years due to its growing sports market, frequent NBA events and infrastructure capable of hosting major games.
If expansion is approved, the league would likely implement an expansion draft, which typically allows new clubs to select eligible players from existing rosters. That process can affect depth across contenders, particularly teams built around deep rotations rather than top-heavy star power.
The Eastern Conference standings illustrate how competitive balance could be impacted, with only a small gap separating several mid-tier teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers (32-21), Toronto Raptors (32-22) and Philadelphia 76ers (30-22). Any expansion process could test roster continuity for teams trying to maintain playoff positioning.
Historically, the NBA has approached expansion cautiously to avoid diluting talent, and league officials have often emphasized long-term planning tied to media rights, arena readiness and market sustainability. Townsend’s report does not confirm a finalized decision but indicates that owners may soon formally address the topic.
Seattle and Las Vegas being labeled as “favored” markets suggests the league is prioritizing geographic balance and commercial growth while maintaining competitive integrity. Expansion could also trigger schedule adjustments, potential divisional realignment and changes to travel logistics, especially for Western Conference teams already managing heavy mileage.
A summer vote, if confirmed, would represent one of the most significant structural shifts in the NBA since the Charlotte Bobcats joined as the league’s 30th team in 2004.
