Haliburton said the winner should get a guaranteed playoff spot, which is a nice idea for incentive but probably wouldn’t work because the teams that won could just half-ass it the rest of the season.

I have a couple non-in depth incentives in mind, in addition to the cash prizes.

1. If the winner of the in-season tournament makes the playoffs, they get to choose their first round opponent. Would create lots of drama and storylines, while also increasing viewership.

If the winner of the in-season tournament doesn’t make the playoffs, they get increased lottery odds. Still a very good incentive for bad or young teams.

2. The team who wins gets an extra first round pick. Probably a lesser incentive compared to the first one, but still something teams would want.

What incentives would you guys add if the in-season tournament is permanent?