Rules Explained

Clear explanations of league formats, playoff structures and scheduling rules.

Editorial guide · Rules Explained

How the NBA Draft Lottery and Playoff Seeding Work

An explanation of how NBA teams earn their playoff spots, how seeding determines matchups, and how the draft lottery gives non-playoff teams a chance at the top pick.

Oct 18, 2026

Editorial guide · Rules Explained

Understanding NHL Conference and Division Structure

How the NHL's 32 teams are organized into conferences and divisions, and how that structure shapes the regular-season schedule and playoff bracket.

Oct 18, 2026