freeman3 wrote:That's fine. It's been interesting discussing possible changes, but I think at this point nothing proposed (including my own ) seems particularly compelling. Unless it's minor tinkering I don't think I would want to change the present system.
I agree with this, and I include my own RFA proposal in there as well.
One of the lower-impact things suggested has been eliminating rookie contracts. I think it's worth further speculation and discussion on the effects that would have.
Let me also put forward, clearly, the lower bracket prize money proposal:
Proposal: Changes to Playoffs1) Last place teams in all divisions are eliminated.
2) Senior Playoffs
Division winners qualify. The top two division winners earn 1st round byes. The next two teams by record earn wild card spots. Playoffs proceed as they have in the past, with 1st prize of League Championship and no other prizes.
3) Junior Playoffs
The remaining six teams are seeded by record. They enter a playoff in the same format as the Senior Playoffs. 1st prize is $10 in Contract Discounts. 2nd prize is $5 in Contract Discounts.
4) Contract Discounts
These may be applied to any player(s) under contract for the following year to reduce the cost of keeping as low as $1. Discounts do not have any effect on Base Year salary calculations.
Example:
I earn $10 in Contract Discounts during the 2015 postseason. For the upcoming 2016 season I have Player A under contract for $6 and Player B under contract for $6/$9/$10. I apply $5 to Player A and $5 to Player B.
Player A costs me $1 in 2016. His Base Year for future contracts remains $6.
Player B costs me $1 in 2016. His contract remains $9/$10 for years 2 and 3.
ProsIncreases the benefit to winning deeper into the season, potentially providing a more robust, competitive league throughout the year. Provides a consolation "safety net" for teams who are on the bubble and choose to go for the playoffs rather than selling. Semi-random nature of a playoff mitigates manipulation: purposely tanking from 6th to 7th doesn't guarantee you any reward. Real penalty for finishing in last place.
ConsPotential for weird incentives. Teams on the bubble may choose NOT to go for the playoffs. Other problems...?