NBA Lockout: Billy Hunter Tells Players They May Have To Miss Half Of Season

The news from the NBA lockout talks in New York City is about as bleak as you can imagine. After it became clear that, at least from the players' union's perspective, no progress had been made, the question was just how deflated the top negotiators had gotten.

National Basketball Players Association director Billy Hunter sums that up in one quote, via CBS Sports' ace Ken Berger:

Hunter bombshell: "We've advised (players) they may have to sit out half the season before we get a deal."

In 1998-99, the league had to restructure with a 50-game season as a deal wasn't reached until early January. The 2011-12 season is scheduled to begin on November 1, and NBA commissioner David Stern has set an unofficial deadline at the end of September to get the docket underway on time.

NBPA president Derek Fisher, the Los Angeles Lakers' point guard, was similarly pessimistic after Tuesday's meeting. From USA Today's Jeff Zillgitt:

NPBA prez Derek Fisher said he doesn't "feel like training camp and season will start on time."

Stay tuned for news from David Stern's inevitable chat with the press.