Anthony "Skeptical" New CBA Will Be Reached Before Deadline

After "months of optimism on both sides," Knicks F Carmelo Anthony said he is "skeptical" that the NBPA and owners will be able reach a new CBA before Thursday's deadline. Anthony, who is also NBPA VP, said, "Do I think something could happen by the 15th? Yeah, I think something could happen. But I think this kind of put a dent in conversations. We had something so close. We were supposed to have a deal done weeks ago, and for this to happen at the 25th hour is tough." Anthony "declined to go into the specifics of the late snag." Sources on both sides of the negotiating table "nonetheless expressed optimism" last night. Sources said that "control over licensing matters and the use of player likenesses has emerged as a significant issue" (ESPN.com, 12/10).