LeBron James Adds To Adam Silver's Optimism On NBA, Union Working Out Labor Deal

Cavaliers F LeBron James has said and done "little this week to dissuade that confidence" NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recently expressed regarding reaching a new CBA deal, according to Jason Lloyd of the AKRON BEACON JOURNAL. James, who serves as NBPA VP, said, "Our game is as big as it’s ever been. And we want to continue that, and a stoppage of play will not continue that.” Lloyd notes James has "been encouraged ... by how early the two sides started negotiations." James: “The last time we had a lockout, we started the conversation too late, and there was no way we could get a deal done. We’re very optimistic on both sides, from the players association to the owners, to Adam Silver, that we can get something done.” Lloyd notes it seems "everyone in the league is making money right now, except for perhaps" Cavs Owner Dan Gilbert, who wrote a check for $54M in luxury tax last season. James: “We want to continue to build the brand and make the game as big as it can (get)” (AKRON BEACON JOURNAL, 10/12).