And 4.5M viewers in 2020 is a lot worse than 4.5M viewers in say 1980. There are many more potential viewers to attract now than at any time in the NBA’s history...and yet...this is the result.
But also consider....in 1980 there were no smart phones or other such devices. And though ESPN was around they didn't have contracts with the nba.
Today there are far more screens available due to the internet vs 1980.
And 1980 ironically the game 6 was tape delayed to most of the country as there was still a lack of tv interest in the nba.
They may be heading back to that position.
When viewed in light of all that the 4.5m viewers is really, really terrible for the nba.