NBA Labor Dispute: Why a "Hard" Cap is a Bad Idea for Both Sides

With a little more than a week remaining before the current CBA expires and the owners (likely) lockout the players, the time is now for the players and owners to hammer out a compromise that will allow the league to continue the momentum it has built over the past year. The NBA has never been more exciting than it is now, with rising stars (Derrick Rose, Kevin Durant) emerging in the playoffs, established stars (Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh) teaming up and becoming one of the most villified (yet profitable) teams in league history, and superstars on the downside of their careers (Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki) reminding everyone that they're not done just yet. Unfortunately, the owners and players remain far apart as the negotiations enter the final week. One of the main issues being debated is whether the new CBA should include the implementation of a "hard" salary cap- a set dollar amount which each team's payroll would not be allowed to exceed under ...