The NBA has expre sed quite a bit of interest in replicating elements of international soccer as a busine s model. The inspiration for a mid-season tournament, expected to come in the next few years, comes from the world of soccer Rusney Castillo Jersey as teams compete for several different trophies over the course of a year. In that vein, the NBA has introduced a number of new trophies recently, including Eastern and Western Conference Finals MVP awards named for Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, respectively.Well, now, the league is introducing yet another trophy. On Tuesday, it the Maurice Podoloff trophy, named for the NBA's first commi sioner. It will go to the team each season that has the best regular-season record. Last season, that would have Hanley Ramirez Jersey been the . The NBA describes the trophy by saying that it "features a crystal ball cut into 82 panels, sitting on a pedestal that combines the structures of the Eastern Conference posts and Western conference rings." Named after the NBAs first commi sioner Maurice Podoloff, this trophy is presented to the team with the best record after 82 regular season games and features elements that represent the season and both conferences. NBA (@NBA) NBA teams tend to focus primarily on the championship awarded at the end of the season. Players approach injuries cautiously. Teams tank for better draft positions in the hopes that it will get them into the title mix in the future. It creates an exciting postseason, but a regular season that is often devoid of stakes. Wade Boggs Jersey CBS Sports HQ Newsletter Your Ultimate Guide to Every Day in Sports We bring sports news that matters to your inbox, to help you stay informed and get a winning edge. I agree to receive the "CBS Sports HQ Newsletter" and marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers), and other information from CBS Sports and the Paramount family of companies. By pre sing sign up, I confirm that I have read and agree to the and acknowledge Paramount's . Please check the opt-in box to acknowledge Johnny Pesky Jersey that you would like to subscribe. Thanks for signing up! Keep an eye on your inbox. Sorry! There was an error proce sing your subscription. Jim Rice Jersey This is just the latest step the league has taken towards attempting to remedy that. In most international soccer leagues, there aren't even playoffs. Championships are based on the end-of-the-season standings. The NBA won't go that far, but it is attempting to reward teams for regular-season excellence to create a more balanced season. Click here Click here Click here