In DC, Sally Jenkins writes NFL leadership "goes further than any of its competitors in its paternalistic, authoritarian us-vs.-them attitude toward players." The league treats players "like unruly underlings in need of monitoring and instruction on how to behave by mature white men, at risk of social mayhem." Owners and league executives "believe they have the right to go far beyond policing the offensive." They "believe it's their right to curb individuality and impose their own sensibility," which is an "exhibition of power." Jenkins: "It's about controlling the workplace, and letting those childish commodities called players know who's in charge" (WASHINGTON POST, 10/19).
STAR TURN: In Toronto, Kevin McGran noted Maple Leafs C Auston Matthews and Oilers C Connor McDavid "certainly seem poised to be the stars of the next generation and have started this season strongly." McDavid was "named the NHL's first star, with Matthews second star for the opening week." Matthews, who scored four goals in his debut for the Leafs, also could "well become the most prominent American player in the league." The "hype could also die down, and it's probably in the Leafs' best interests if it does." But for now, it is a "reality Matthews must deal with and he seems to be doing fine" (TORONTO STAR, 10/18).
SHOW ME THE MONEY: In N.Y., Brigitte James writes the WNBA has "shown substantial growth, but it has lagged way behind in the area of player salary." The average rookie "earns approximately $40,000," while an experienced star player -- such as Liberty C Tina Charles -- "maxes out around $100,000." Many of the WNBA's "better-known and more ambitious talents therefore are enticed in what should be their offseasons by deep-pocketed women's teams abroad making contract offers they can't refuse." Liberty G Shavonte Zellous said, "I hope the WNBA will continue to grow in the finance area so we won't do that." She said the WNBA is a "great organization," but players keep going abroad because "that's where the money is" (N.Y. POST, 10/19).
