Posts Tagged ‘cba’
On the same day that the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement was ratified, Commissioner David Stern has already overstepped the authority that the document allowed. Harmony between the league and the players’ association was expected, but that harmony didn’t even last 24 hours.
In a move yesterday, the Charlotte Hornets agreed to trade point guard Chris Paul in a three-team deal. The move seemingly would alleviate the risk of loosing Paul for nothing next summer; and would also avoid the cloud of drama that we saw engulf the Denver Nuggets last year with Carmelo Anthony.
The widely speculated deal that would send New Orleans Point Guard Chris Paul to Boston for Rajon Rondo has hit a snag that may kill the trade altogether. Paul, who has spent his entire career with the Hornets, appears unwilling to sign a long-term extension in Boston.
This would not be the only issue, as New Orleans is believed to want more than just Rondo in return. Boston had been looking to get a third team involved in negotiations but it now appears the price-tag is too high for just a one-year rental. Paul is a free-agent after the upcoming season; and most believe it is his desire to join Carmelo Anthony in New York.
This story, if true, serves as proof that even with a new CBA, the NBA players still hold way too much power. While I’m extremely happy that max contracts are no longer allowed in sign and trade deals, players continue to hold teams hostage until they cater to their demands. Last year it was Anthony in Denver; this year the drama will surround and engulf the New Orleans Hornets.
After the conclusion of their secret meetings, the NBA and the players union have emerged with the news fans have been waiting to hear for the last 149 days: the lockout is over. While it is still pending approval from both the owners and players, an agreement on a new CBA apperas to have been reached.
No specifics have been disclosed, but with both sides expected to approve on the deal, they should come to light in the coming days. Questions on the monetary split can now turn towards the make up of clubs going into the season. As was the case in the NFL, we can now expect a mad dash of activity as teams try and shape their rosters.