NBA Sends out Anti-Tampering Memo

The NBA is cracking down on potential tampering. Or, they are at least taking the first step. According to reports, the NBA sent out a memo on Friday that reminded teams of the anti-tampering rules.

The NBA sent out the memo after the Anthony Davis/LeBron James situation. James commented on playing alongside Davis. He said playing with Davis would be incredible. James answered a question from the media, but his answer was an issue. The response was an indirect attempt at recruiting Davis.

Anthony Davis vs LeBron James (Getty Images)

ESPN obtained the NBA’s memo. It warned teams of the consequences of tampering with players under contract. The rules are commonly known in the league, but recent situations caused the league to take action.

The memo says it is important to carefully handle the situation. This is also true in today’s media.

“This principle is particularly important in today’s media environment, where any actions or comments relating to potential player movement receive immediate and widespread public attention. Teams should be entitled to focus their efforts on the competition this season with the players they have under contract, without having to divert attention or resources to conduct or speculation regarding the potential destinations of those players in future seasons once their contracts expire.”

NBA general managers voiced their concern over James’ comments. They think his words could also hurt their chances of signing top players and that their stars could leave. If a player like James wants to play with them, they’ll take that chance. A player could leave their team and form a “superteam”. This affects smaller market teams.

The NBA noticed a pattern. They also heard the concern of general managers. The NBA took appropriate action. They warned teams that statements such as James’ can result in punishment.

The memo says that teams should refrain from public comments. It says to avoid comments that could be viewed as targeting another team’s player. Also, statements like James’ could be a basis for a tampering violation.

The NBA is taking action, as their memo could slow down tampering. Now, players and teams alike must be careful. The NBA is starting to take notice.

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