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**Coatesvillain** · 07-10-2006, 12:13 AM

Quote:

Problem: A Maryland judge who's handling the ownership dispute between the team's current owners and forced-out owner Steve Belkin ruled Thursday that the Hawks (and their NHL cousin Thrashers) can execute only one-year contracts with players until the final decision on who runs the team is made.

That wasn't a problem with existing negotiations such as those with free-agent guard Speedy Claxton, who agreed to a contract in Atlanta earlier in the week. But it might well make it near impossible to trade Harrington for anything approaching market value, since the Hawks could take back only players with a year remaining on their deals.

For example, it would be impossible for Atlanta, if it so desired, to get Jamaal Tinsley (who has five seasons left on his contract) or Stephen Jackson (four seasons) - two players the Pacers have been shopping - in any sign-and-trade for Harrington.

The Hawks' universe would be limited to veterans such as Lakers center Chris Mihm, Bucks forward Joe Smith, Knicks forward Mo Taylor, and Grizzlies guard Eddie Jonesin potential sign-and-trade deals.

LINK

Hmm.. that's an interesting tidbit, that no one besides Aldridge has reported. Interesting.

**Dissonance19** · 07-10-2006, 12:22 AM

I heard they could do any deal since it's a S/T, and that they could continue anything they were discussing before the ruling too. I don't know anymore.

**Diable** · 07-10-2006, 12:31 AM

Essentially this would just give Belkin a veto over any potential transaction,but if the two factions were able to agree upon any given transaction the judge would certainly not interfere in any agreements they made with mutual consent.It isn't his business so long as Belkin gives his approval to any deal the other faction makes.He's only concerned with protecting Belkin's interests until this mess can be cleared up.

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