Why the NBA Lockout Has Been Good for the Players

As you probably know, the NBA, like the NFL a short time ago, is experiencing the long process of creating a new CBA.

It has put a halt to nearly all annual NBA offseason events.

Free agency, the summer circuit, and blockbuster trades are just a few of the lockout's casualties.

But, contrary to the negative vibe surrounding the NBA, some good things have come out of the lockout.

Players, with notables including Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony, have been showcasing their skills in local pick-up games at venues such as Rucker Park.

It has created a new outlet for NBA players to reach out to the community.

Kevin Durant especially has embraced street ball as a way to enhance his reputation.

His utter dominance, including 66- and 44-point outings, has helped him grow in popularity.

His multiple appearances included a standout performance against none other than LeBron James.

Speaking of James, he has also been able to reach out to the community hosting camps internationally and in the U.S. Although he has been embarrassed a few times with unflattering viral videos, he is definitely in the process of rebuilding his reputation.

Another aspect that is helping the players (and also the NBA) during the lockout is the ability to play overseas.

It has taken the NBA's global outreach to a new level. Popularity has risen dramatically with players such as Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, and Deron Williams considering playing in countries such as China or Turkey until the lockout is resolved.

So, with the lockout, we may miss a few games, free agency will be shortened, and rookies will have less time to learn their new systems, but because the NBA players have seized this opportunity by helping grow the NBA's reputation around the world, their are definitely some benefits to this otherwise negative event.