NBA Commissioner Adam Silver defended the new collective bargaining agreement’s second apron provisions, responding to criticism from players including Draymond Green about its impact on free agency and team continuity. Silver’s comments followed Tuesday’s Board of Governors’ meeting in Las Vegas.
Silver addressed concerns during a recent media session, stating the league is “happy with where we are” in the early stages of the new CBA implementation. He acknowledged that some players may feel disadvantaged by the changes.
The commissioner emphasized the second apron’s primary goal was creating competitive balance without implementing a hard salary cap. The provision aims to prevent teams from dramatically outspending competitors while maintaining championship opportunities for all franchises.
Seven Different Champions Highlight Competitive Balance
Silver pointed to the league’s seven different champions in seven years as evidence of improved parity. He clarified that the NBA remains comfortable with dynasties, focusing on input mechanisms rather than championship outcomes.
“We want to make sure, again, no team either is dramatically disadvantaged because they are not in a position to pay a large luxury team or another team has a significant advantages,” Silver said.
The commissioner disputed claims that the new CBA has hurt the NBA’s middle class of players. League data shows middle-tier salaries have remained stable or slightly increased compared to the previous agreement.
Early Extensions Replace Traditional Free Agency
Silver noted that fewer traditional free agents result partly from players choosing to extend contracts earlier with their current teams. The CBA intentionally provides incumbent teams advantages to draft, develop and retain players.
“In many cases, you have situations where players are electing to stay in those markets. So I don’t necessarily think that’s a bad thing,” Silver said.
The league continues analyzing every trade, signing and extension to monitor the agreement’s impact. Silver acknowledged that leveling the playing field creates winners and losers among franchises and players.
