While talent has predominantly flowed westward over the past quarter-century, the Eastern Conference has quietly dominated the NBA Draft Lottery. Since the Cleveland Cavaliers selected LeBron James with the first overall pick in 2003, Eastern Conference teams have secured the coveted top selection 14 times compared to just eight occasions for Western Conference franchises.
This lottery advantage has translated into meaningful star production as well. Eight of the 14 players selected first overall by Eastern Conference teams developed into All-Stars with their drafting franchise (57%). Six of the Western Conference's eight top selections (75%) achieved All-Star status with the team that drafted them into the NBA.
Lottery Winners By Conference (2003-2024)
Eastern Conference (14):
2024: Atlanta Hawks
2022: Orlando Magic
2021: Detroit Pistons
2017: Brooklyn Nets (pick traded to Philadelphia)
2016: Philadelphia 76ers
2014: Cleveland Cavaliers
2013: Cleveland Cavaliers
2011: Los Angeles Clippers (pick traded to Cleveland)
2010: Washington Wizards
2008: Chicago Bulls
2006: Toronto Raptors
2005: Milwaukee Bucks
2004: Orlando Magic
2003: Cleveland Cavaliers
Western Conference (8)
2023: San Antonio Spurs
2020: Minnesota Timberwolves
2019: New Orleans Pelicans
2018: Phoenix Suns
2015: Minnesota Timberwolves
2012: New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans)
2009: Los Angeles Clippers
2007: Portland Trail Blazers
This data presents an interesting counterpoint to the conventional wisdom about conference power dynamics. While Western Conference teams have generally constructed more competitive rosters through free agency and trades during this period, Eastern Conference franchises have more frequently capitalized on the draft's most valuable asset.
The Atlanta Hawks' surprising lottery victory in 2024, jumping nine spots from their pre-lottery position, continues this trend of Eastern Conference lottery fortune.
However, Western Conference teams have tended to win the lottery in recent years when generational players such as Victor Wembanyama and Zion Williamson have been at the top of the draft.