|
And just for fun if I were the owners this is what I would have done differently:
1). Once we opted out, focus our internal intentions and goals. Start with underlying assumptions that players today a) will have competent representation and as such prepare full fledged briefs, P/L statements, charts and projections that explain and show the stated concerns. Don't hire a lawyer who brought hockey through a year long lock out as a primary attorney, though put him on as a consultant.
2). Get past the past history question, find a reputable accounting firm, and let them make representative case books. Show a merged high, med and low rev team. And present that to the players early on. Let that be known publicly, so there is little reason for distrust.
3). If you believe a lockout is inevitable, again be forceful about getting to a FRMC mediation. Make every effort to have intense mediation dates. If the players are not going to budge at all then atleast have it on record that you were trying your hardest.
4). The tv deal is a hindsight thing. Chances are when being done most felt or atleast let themselves be convinced it was just reasonable measures. At this point I would obviously say don't make those deals.
5). If DSmith was a stumbling block, appeal to player reps directly. At first there might be pushback, but the owners know these guys and vice versa. Have Saturday and Irsay talk, have kraft and their player rep talk, etc. Obviously this is early on and has to be handled delicately, but reach out and listen to the players side. While maintaining the message that somethings have to change, find out what non cash issues resonate with the players and the reps.
6) don't threaten lockout 2years out, focus on moving points through negotiation.
7) finally, make sure the deal is a solid one for the longterm
|