As the NBA Draft Lottery approaches tonight, many believe the Utah Jazz could emerge as the winners of the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes and land the No. 1 pick.
While the Jazz executed a calculated tanking strategy to position themselves as a frontrunner for the top selection, speculation lingers that, in some cases, the NBA might tilt the odds to benefit certain franchises. There’s no concrete evidence of this, but a few historic cases have fueled ongoing debate.
One of the most infamous examples occurred 40 years ago when the New York Knicks won the lottery and selected No. 1 overall. That pick turned into Patrick Ewing—who would become the face of the franchise.
Did the NBA Rig the 1985 Draft Lottery?
There are plenty of conspiracy theories tied to the NBA Draft Lottery. But none has persisted quite like the 1985 draft—the very first of the lottery era. Much like Flagg is viewed as the runaway choice this season, Ewing held that status in 1985.
The Georgetown star was a can’t-miss prospect who could instantly elevate a franchise. The Knicks, desperate for a turnaround, fit the bill. Add to that Commissioner David Stern’s ties to New York, and the suspicions only grow.
Then there’s the role of Jack Wagner, the accountant from Ernst & Whitney (now Ernst & Young), who handled the envelopes—despite E&W having completed an audit of Gulf & Western, the company that owned the Knicks at the time.
Too many coincidences? For many, yes.
The “frozen envelope” theory claims the envelope containing the Knicks’ logo was chilled beforehand so that Stern could feel for the cold one and ensure New York landed the top pick. While the theory is wild, to conspiracy theorists, it’s plausible.
40 Years Ago Today: The alleged "Frozen Envelope" gives Knicks the #1 pick and Patrick Ewing rights.
Not often mentioned: Jack Wagner, who put the envelopes in drum, was a partner at Ernst & Whitney. E&W audited Gulf & Western, who owned the Knicks. Stern said he was unaware. pic.twitter.com/sfvMIt19oE
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell)
Stern, naturally, denied the theory. But the signs have always been hard for some to dismiss. Ultimately, the pick paid off. Ewing led the Knicks to multiple playoff runs and a Finals appearance, becoming the centerpiece of the franchise and boosting league popularity.
Could the Utah Jazz Win the Draft Lottery?
This year, the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards and Charlotte Hornets are tied at the top of the draft odds (14%), each hoping to add Cooper Flagg to their young cores. While Washington and Charlotte are equally eager, many feel Utah has the momentum—both in public sentiment and in draft positioning.
The lottery is “random,” and outcomes can vary widely. But considering how the very first lottery ended under a cloud of speculation, could history repeat itself 40 years later?
Many experts believe the Jazz will be rewarded for their strategic rebuild and walk away with the No. 1 pick.