NBA Lockout: Key Issue Gaps Will Keep Work Stoppage Rolling on

The end of the NBA lockout is not as close as it seems.

With reports circulating that the NBA lockout is nearing the end, fans should tame their expectations. There are still major issues that need to be worked out between the two sides that could very well halt the end of the work stoppage.

The NBA and players have been making a lot of progress over the last few days, but that doesn't mean a deal is imminent. Remember the NFL lockout? There were reports weeks ahead of time that a deal was coming in days.

That didn't come to fruition, and neither will these reports.

The biggest problem is that the NBA has worked out a lot of the small issues, but not all of the major ones. That certainly represents progress, but it doesn't signal the end of a lockout.

The LA Times explains how the NBA is hoping to use momentum from solving minor issues to help them solve the bigger problems.

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"They start on the easy tasks, hope that builds momentum and then move on to the more difficult responsibilities. That meant halting discussions regarding how to split up basketball-related income. Instead, both sides this week discussed the so-called system issues, ranging from luxury taxes, mid-level exceptions, guaranteed contracts and revenue sharing, in hopes they can find agreement in something."

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That's all fine and dandy, and it's nice to talk about, but it doesn't solve the problem of basketball-related income.

Neither side has been willing to budge on this issue, and it remains to be seen if this momentum can solve such a vital issue in the talks.

The owners are looking for at least 50 percent of BRI, while the players refuse to accept anything less than 53 percent for themselves. Technically speaking, 52.5 percent to the players would be a win for the owners, who had to give up 57 percent last year.

The difference between three percent is approximately $120 million per year. The NBA and players are both losing money right now by not playing basketball though, so it does serve both sides best to take a hit.

This deal is going to get done. It's just a matter of when it gets done.

Neither side wants to lose an entire season, but this deal might not be as imminent as we all hope it is.