Basketball fans have already rejoiced about the prospects of a new collective bargaining agreement. With both the NBA and the Players’ Association having opt-out clauses, there was a possibility for another lengthy lockout. However, initial reports are that the two sides will not even approach that possibility.
Actual details about the new CBA are just now emerging. Kevin O’Conner of the Ringer reported some of the details, most notably including a shortened preseason and a more detailed policy for domestic violence cases.
“There’s a lot of talk from the player side about doing more to keep players healthy,” a source said. “There are things that can be done to make it so a greater percentage of games played involves the best players at their healthiest, and that’s been a goal for everybody.”
It remains unclear just how much the preseason will be shortened from the current maximum of eight games, but Silver did hint in 2015 that the league would explore reducing the preseason as a means of starting the regular season earlier. Doing so would allow for more flexibility in game scheduling, which could lead to more days in between games.
The new CBA will likely clarify the disciplinary procedures in dealing with domestic-violence policy violations, according to a source. The terms haven’t been finalized, but the measures will go well beyond a fine and a suspension. “I think as we’ve all seen in those situations that it needs to be more than discipline,” a source told The Ringer. “It needs to be about counseling, support services, intervention, outreach, and providing resources behind the scenes to help.”
Regarding the shortened preseason, that’s something that many people have clamored for for a while. The preseason is clearly too long and injury risks make it a worthless endeavor for eight games.
As for the domestic violence policy, that is a slightly newer concern. Darren Collison’s suspension to begin the season shone a bright light on that issue. Having a more explicit policy for punishment and prevention is a great thing.
There’s a lot to like about the news emerging about the new CBA.
