Originally Posted by Rui Z

I'm just saying that specific article is crap because it tries to create this web of conspiracy against the Lakers by assuming certain things. The writer is being sensational.

There was conflict of interest. I agree the NBA went about the whole trade situation wrong, but in the end I believe David Stern did what was best for the Hornets. David Stern should have told Dell Demps in the beginning, "Dell you have the power to negotiate and come up with good trades, but I have the final say on whether the trade should be accepted." There was a lack of communication. Also in hindsight, "basketball reasons" was the right reason to give at that moment. They didn't want to give the reasons (lower payroll, younger talent, more future potentials are better things for a potential new owner) back when they vetoed the Lakers trade, because that would have given more leverage to the Clippers.