In an effort to speed up the game, the NBA will make some rule changes for next season. The number of timeouts teams can use has decreased from nine to seven. Also, teams can now use only two timeouts – instead of three – during the last three minutes of regulation.
Team timeouts have also been shortened to 75 seconds instead of 90 seconds.
“These changes will help us fulfill our goal of improving game flow and pace of play,” said Byron Spruell, NBA President, League Operations. The league believes fewer stoppages will enhance the game for fans.
Other changes include delay-of-game violations during free throws. Referees will asses a violation if a free throw shooter wanders beyond the three-point line between attempts.
Teams also must be ready to start the second half after the 15-minute halftime period. If a team is not ready to play at the expiration of the halftime clock, they will be given a delay-of-game penalty.
The NBA trade deadline has also been moved up. It used to be the fist Thursday after the All-Star Game and instead will be 10 days before the All-Star Game takes place.
You can click here for a full detailed release on the rule changes.
