Is the Current State of David Stern’s NBA Bad for the Game?

David Stern does not like criticism — that’s no secret. But is it about time that he starts listening?

The NBA’s commissioner was harsh in his response to Stan Van Gundy‘s assessment, going as far to say, “I would render a guess … that we won’t be hearing from [Van Gundy] for the rest of the season.” Will that be because the Magic head coach will be fined an obscene amount? Will his job be threatened by his bosses?

Whatever it means, it indicates that Stern doesn’t like being questioned. In this case, though, you could argue that Van Gundy made a fair point. Stern’s reaction only reinforced it.

“I certainly can’t have an opinion,” Van Gundy said, “because David Stern, like a lot of leaders we’ve seen in this world lately, don’t really tolerate other people’s opinion or free speech or anything. So I’m not really allowed to have an opinion.”

Van Gundy may be the most outspoken critic of the league and its leader, but he’s far from alone. The league isn’t short on critics, with the Tim Donaghy scandal turning some fans off forever. From overhyped superstars (see: The Decision) to suspect officiating to a watered-down product, the game is unquestionably different than it’s been in years past.

Are the changes for the better?

Share your thoughts below.

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