What If Tim Donaghy Is Jose Canseco 2.0?

What if Tim Donaghy is right?

David Stern has been masterful in guiding the NBA. He is eloquent, funny, personable, and tough. Stern, as much as any player, executive, or owner, must get credit for the amazing success of the NBA.

I wonder if he won't be the cause of a serious down-turn now.

Donaghy is a gambler and convicted felon. Yet, he was hired by the NBA.

Donaghy may have a grudge against former workmates and an employer that he feels turned their back on him. Yet, his story makes sense.

This has been the 500-pound purple gorilla in the room long enough; it's time for the NBA and David Stern specifically to address these accusations head-on.

Is it possible that certain referees call a game in such a way that one could predict the outcome correctly 75 percent of the time? Stern needs to investigate and calm our fears.

Is it possible that a certain referee was so concerned about not "embarrassing" anyone that he officiated in such a way to keep the game close? Stern needs to act and act quickly.

Is it possible that Charles Barkley gave Donaghy a Gatorade shower after an on-court dispute? Sure, who cares.

Everything else that Donaghy says must be taken seriously by David Stern. This has the feel of a Pandora's Box about to bust open!

The NBA has long had its share of conspiracy theories. How did the Knicks get the first pick that landed them Ewing? Need a team to succeed in Texas? Let's send Duncan their way. Remember how infuriated Pat Riley was when his signing of Juwan Howard was rebuffed? Riles alleged back then that the league wanted Howard in Washington, not Miami.

It was laughable at the time, but now you have to wonder, was Pat right?

Does the NBA maneuver players like chess pieces? Do the referees play favorites? Is the NBA more entertainment than actual competition (an accusation made by Donaghy)?

As an NBA fan, I hope these questions are answered. I hope Stern attacks these accusations head-on. It seems, however, that the NBA headquarters is taking the "turn the other way and hope it goes away" approach.

How well did that work for Major League Baseball?

Everyone laughed when Jose Canseco wrote Juiced. The denials and excommunication of Canseco was immediate. Turns out that Jose was right.

What if Tim Donaghy is right?