There is an old adage that says "life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."
Well, some NBA players are more than likely looking to do their best Fred Astaire over the near and possibly extended future. With the lockout less than a week old, players are exploring all of their options in the event, and it sure looks like a distinct possibility, that this work stoppage lasts a while.
It has been said that playing overseas in Europe may not a viable option for many players, but it sure seems like many players have had overtures from European clubs in the event the entire NBA season is lost.
Pau Gasol says that his two options would be his native Spain or China.
And exactly what are the chances that the entire NBA season will be lost?
Well, it's a distinct possibility and it should be no surprise to the players as the players' association has been warning players as far back as 2007.
So just how bad is it right now? One player agent who is very plugged in to the negotiations has said he is looking for deals for some of his clients overseas and if something good materializes, with the bargaining atmosphere the way it currently stands, he will advise them to jump at it.
It will be difficult to pass up a chance to earn some money and play competitively.
Raptors fans should not be surprised to see Sonny Weems playing in Spain next season if that opportunity presents itself.
With internationally born players looking at taking advantage of playing opportunities thanks to past connections, Kobe Bryant may go one step further.
Nevermind dancing in the rain, it looks as if Bryant wants to gather a band and have it play on a barge or party boat as he has talked about taking NBA players on a tour through China pending Chinese government approval.
The NBA owners have let their collective competitiveness get the better of them.
In 1998 when a lockout threatened to end the season, players acquiesced and it looked like victory for the owners. But here we are some 13 years later and ownership is looking to tighten the screws again, and with the player's help, curb their poor spending and questionable contract judgement.
There doesn't seem to be a whole lot of wiggle room and it looks like one side, probably the players, will have to give in to reach an agreement.
That said, the climate of ownership has changed from where the team used to viewed as a hobby or a Ferrari that you can leave in the garage if it rains.
Unlike previous owners that bought teams for a low price and have made their money, these new wave owners want not only cost certainty, but profit certainty.
The old school owner was more likely to compromise and get a deal done whereas the new guys, including some that endured the NHL lockout that lasted an entire season, aren't willing to give in so quickly.
So what's the solution?
There are some good ideas here, but in the meantime, the owners continue to show that they are the ones that put up the money and are ultimately in control as the league has removed player images from team websites.
Note to the players: the storm everyone anticipated is here, so I hope you plan to use some of the money you have been saving over the length of your contracts for dance lessons.
By the looks of it, there many be more than one lesson needed.
