NBA lockout: What does it mean?
NBA Commissioner David Stern listens to a reporters question after the conclusion of the NBA owners meeting in Dallas. (June 28, 2011) Credit: AP
The NBA lockout commenced at 12:01 a.m. this morning after the previous collective-bargaining agreement expired.
WHAT IT MEANS
Free agency, which was supposed to begin Friday, now is suspended, as are all player transactions. Players cannot use team facilities; they are not allowed to work out in the weight room or shoot in the gym.
Players are not allowed access to the team's medical facilities or staff during the lockout. For instance, the Knicks’ Toney Douglas, who is recovering from shoulder surgery, must continue his rehabilitation at a private practice. Teams may not use players or their likenesses for any promotions during the lockout.
WHAT ABOUT THE SEASON?
The NBA season usually begins around Nov. 1, and most training camps open around Oct. 1. There still is plenty of time for the NBA and the players’ union to work out a deal to save the season, but the clock is ticking.
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