NEWSLETTER
We are 51 days away from a return of the NBA season … probably. Most likely. Probably.
While both the NBA Board of Governors and NBPA have agreed in principle to a restart of the 2019-20 campaign, the final sign-off hasn’t happened just yet. The league is close to an agreement on all provisions, but according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, some players are a bit skeptical of the league’s plans.
The NBA and NBPA are nearing completion on items needed to reach a final agreement on parameters of a return-to-play, sources said. Some players with hesitation have been discussing a number of issues on return, including family concerns, COVID-19, social justice, and more.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 10, 2020
Apparently “several dozen players” joined a conference call over the last 24 hours to discuss some of the problems they have with the Orlando bubble. And it appears these concerns have lead the NBA and NBPA to work toward a provision that will not force nor punish players for refusing to participate in the continued season.
The NBA and NBPA are expected to agree on a provision that wouldn't require players to restart the season, nor subject them to discipline for staying home, sources tell ESPN. The players would lose a portion of salary for those games missed. https://t.co/WkV5qqEmE5
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 10, 2020
In my opinion, this always felt like it would be a necessary component. Considering all the potential risks associated with a return to play, these players should be able to freely chose whether or not they want to participate. No problems there.
However, is anyone else a bit confused to see this come out now? I mean, why weren’t these formal conversations had prior to the vote we saw on June 4th? I know the majority of players seem to be on board, but this just feels like something that would’ve been best handled prior to the NBA’s announcement. You never want to over-promise and underdeliver, after all.
(UPDATE: Michael) Note: It’s possible (though this is just my speculation) that players with medical issues may be able to skip Orlando without losing a portion of their salary, whereas players who choose to sit out will.
Sources: If a player has a medical issue that might be cause for him to be excused from the Orlando restart, he would be allowed to undergo an independent examination process. Even if the player was told that he’s fit to play, he could still stay home without consequence.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 10, 2020
Oh well, everything looks like it’ll still move forward … but this is certainly something to keep an eye on.
