Over the last few days there has reportedly been some progress made between the NBA's Owners and the Players' Association. However, it remains to be seen whether the two sides can strike common ground quick enough to avoid delaying the start of the NBA season that is scheduled on Nov 1. ESPN True Hoop writer Henry Abbott introduces an interesting idea into the scenario. Is it feasible for the NBA to just push back the start date of the season and play later into the summer.
My first thought is why not? This is an excellent idea even if it might be difficult to pull off. Neither side will benefit from a shortened season and as a league the NBA controls the dates of its off season and regular season. Abbott reports that David Stern did not rule out this scenario on Monday.
"As we said to the players, everything is negotiable," Stern said after the sides met in small groups Monday in New York for about five hours. Yet, Stern added, "we haven't ever discussed this; it would be really great if we could start the season on time."
Logistics could be the greatest problem to this plan as Stern outlines.
"Given the building issues with our buildings now pressuring us to allow them to book dates [that are currently being held for NBA games under threat of cancellation], and given the schedule of our TV partners, and given the fact how much household viewing declines after our draft, I'm not sure, how easy that would be," the commissioner said Monday.
Still even though orchestrating it all might be a nightmare, the positives would have to outweigh the negatives of a shortened, reduced season. Especially if the two sides are really moving closer to a deal with each meeting.