The second round of the NBA playoffs has seen games scheduled with significant overlap, leading to frustration amongst fans.
The scheduling quirk has drawn criticism. For years, doubleheaders on ESPN and TNT were staggered, but the NBA’s partnership with NBC this season has changed that.
Overlapping Game Times
On Monday, Game 1 of the 76ers vs. Knicks aired at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. Peacock also streamed Timberwolves vs. Spurs at 9:30 p.m.
Tuesday saw Lakers vs. Thunder air on NBC and Peacock at 9:30 p.m. Peacock streamed Cavaliers vs. Pistons at 7 p.m.
Streaming Service Requirements
Fans need multiple streaming services to watch the second round. Specifically, Peacock and Amazon are required, in addition to NBC, ESPN and ABC.
Competitive Imbalance in Series
Some second-round series are not expected to be competitive. The Thunder are -1600 to beat the Lakers, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. The Spurs are -425 to advance past the Timberwolves.
DraftKings lists the Knicks winning in five games over the 76ers at +320. Pistons vs. Cavaliers is projected to be the longest series.
Viewing Experience Concerns
The overlap was the risk the NBA ran when it partnered with NBC this season. NBC has avoided airing games before 8 p.m. ET on weeknights and does not want Central Time teams like the Spurs and Thunder tipping off as late as 9:30 pm local time.
The increasing difficulty, confusion, and expense of watching live sports at home may cause viewers to tune out.
Despite the NBA touting a 33-year high for the first round, playoff viewership is more likely down than up.