It absolutely happens in the NFL. It doesn't get publicized as much. If you think the Colts signed all the best players possible and thought they'd make the playoffs the year Peyton Manning missed and ended up with the worst record and Andrew Luck.... I've got a bridge in Brooklyn for ya. The players play in the NBA, the difference is by far and away, 1 player makes more of a difference. The best players are gotten by picking in the top 5. The players aren't throwing games in the NBA. Management puts together a young team, rests guys, etc, etc. If you want competitive balance in the NBA, 1 thing needs to happen: Remove the salary ceiling for free agents. The most underpaid players are the top-10 to 20 guys in the league (and the players on their first 4 year contract).