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Come Fan with UsFriday, June 26, 2026

NBA Lockout: Owners Propose ‘Bonus Pool’ For Young Players Outperforming Rookie Contracts

The NBA lockout talks continue to progress ever so slowly, but there is one new idea that has reportedly crept into discussion that could be a tempting compromise for both owners and the NBA Players Association. Yahoo! Sports’ Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that the owners have floated the idea of a “bonus pool” where young players on rookie contracts would receive performance incentives if they achieve certain honors.

The owners also are proposing a “bonus pool” of money for high-achieving young players with performance-based incentives. Under the proposal, players would be rewarded for winning Rookie of the Year and making All-Star teams and other accomplishments.

This idea stems from the NBPA's desire to see players who are superstars on rookie contracts, such as Derrick Rose and Blake Griffin, get quicker access to extensions. Currently, new deals can only go into effect after the fourth year of their careers.

In addition, Wojnarowski reports the two sides are close to agreeing on a new mid-level exception starting at $5 million with annual raises for up to three years. The owners wanted the length to be dropped to three years, and the players agreed.

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