NBA 2021 season may start December 22 or January 18 – reports

The 2020-2021 NBA season may begin on either December 22, 2020 or January 18, 2021, according to the nation’s leading league insiders.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has mentioned “time is running out” for the league’s season opening date.

ESPN story with @ZachLowe_NBA: Adam Silver to GM's on talks for a December start to 2020-21 season: "Time is running out." NBA-NBPA discussions, details on a play-in tournament and scramble to reach deal on pre-Christmas tip to spare $500M-plus in losses. https://t.co/pxBE9vbpdN

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 3, 2020

Silver suggests that the league might lose too much money — $500 million up to $1 billion — if the league starts later. Starting prior to Christmas day may spare the league some income.

The league has also explored additional ways to improve cash flow among teams, per Woj, such as betting, hard alcohol, and casinos to generate more revenue.

The NBA is searching for ways to increase cash flow into teams, and sources said the league is hopeful to expand guidelines on sports betting, hard alcohol and casinos that could generate between $80M and $100M in revenue. https://t.co/TDQIuQONvF

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 3, 2020

The Athletic’s Shams Charania has also reported that the potential opening date of the upcoming season is down to either December or January next year. The NBA Players Association will have to vote on the matter.

Sources: The NBPA will vote as soon as Thursday on the NBA’s 72-game, Dec. 22 proposal — growing belief around players is that Christmas week start is inevitable.

Details on @TheAthleticNBA: https://t.co/NdQw0PVi7r

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 3, 2020

The Los Angeles Lakers took home the 2020 NBA title behind the strength of Finals MVP LeBron James and all-star big man Anthony Davis.

Should the opening date for the next season be known already, the league will have to patch up a handful of matters quickly, like the draft and free agency.