Whether exhibition matches preceding a regular season influence official standings is a common inquiry. These preparatory contests, conducted before the commencement of a league’s formal schedule, serve primarily as evaluation tools for teams. Consider a scenario where a team wins all its preseason games; this success does not translate into points or advantages when the actual season begins.
The importance of these games lies in their capacity to facilitate player assessment, tactical refinement, and team cohesion. Historically, coaches have utilized these opportunities to experiment with different lineups, identify areas needing improvement, and gauge the readiness of both veteran players and new acquisitions. This period allows for adjustments without the pressure of impacting official rankings or playoff eligibility.
