Contraction?

Dare I say it? The word sends chills down the spines of NBA fans in 30 cities across the nation. Well, in reality, only about 4 or 5 cities are potential targets for the death blow that is franchise contraction. The way the lockout negotiations are shaping up, it may be the best chance the league has to play this season.

The quick financial rundown goes like this. The players have enjoyed a large slice of the pie during the past two labor deals. As recently as last year, they players received 57% of all basketball related revenues. That number, Basketball Related Revenues, is key to this entire lockout. The owners feel that 57% is too much. In a ridiculous offer, Commissioner Stern and the owners presented a plan to the players that would give the players only 46% of the revenues. 57% to 46% is a LARGE drop. Hence, the stalemate that is the NBA lockout.

How does contraction fit into the equation? If two teams were contracted, there would be less employees(players). Thus, the amount of money that the players are looking for would be the same, while letting the owners take their 50+% that they are demanding.

The candidates?
- New Orleans Hornets: They don't even have an owner.....
- The Sacramento Kings: The Maloof Brothers can't pay their bills. That is generally not a good business practice. Sorry Jimmer.
- The Charlotte Bobcats: MJ was a better player than owner.

I guess we'll wait and see. Who do you think should be contracted?