Of course, the correlation between assignees and success, while present, is weak at this point due to the fact that not all teams have their own affiliate to work with. Some teams have not used the assignee system and have still been successful, and vice versa. However, teams that do have a flourishing relationship with their D-League affiliate are much more successful on average than teams who do not have a great relationship.

This proves why there is a distinct difference between using the D-League for call-ups and using the league for assignments. Assignments are being used to develop an NBA team’s 15-man roster and thus, is far more successful on average than teams who try to simply develop in house.

Some of the more recent names being developed in this manner are Kyle Anderson (Spurs), Clint Capela (Rockets), Mitch McGary (Thunder) and Jordan Clarkson (Lakers). Anderson recently took home NBA summer league MVP honors and looks to be a real contributor for the Spurs in 2015-16. Capela was the NBADL darling last season and impressed whenever he got minutes with Houston.

The picture perfect example of this is from two seasons ago, when Robert Covington spent his entire rookie season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He improved so much that he signed a four-year deal with the Sixers after the Rockets cut him. Now, he’s a real asset, fresh off of averaging 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in 2014-15 for the rebuilding franchise.

The D-League is certainly moving towards being a true minor league system for each parent club. While there are some teams who are still adverse to using the system — ahem, Bulls and Pacers — the teams who are committed to this valuable resource are already reaping the benefits.

It’s time to jump on board and ride the new wave of development, people.