<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Instead of a lengthy lockout souring the Bucks' off-season, the team will be able to take full advantage of having the top overall pick in next week's NBA draft. And the Bucks will have a chance to move ahead with negotiations with unrestricted free agent Michael Redd and restricted free agents Dan Gadzuric and Zaza Pachulia, or to pursue other free-agent signings or possible trades. "Obviously, we're excited about the news," Bucks general manager Larry Harris said of the collective bargaining agreement. "But it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further until the actual agreement is ratified." Under terms spelled out by the league, free agents may negotiate with teams but not sign contracts until July 22, an extension from the original signing date of July 14. The 25-year-old Redd, the Bucks' leading scorer last season and an NBA all-star in 2003-'04, will be able to begin negotiations with Milwaukee and other teams on July 1, rather than being placed in limbo due to a lockout. The current seven-year labor agreement ends June 30. The Bucks have said re-signing Redd is a vital part of their planning as they seek to rebound after a 30-52 finish. Contract lengths would be reduced by one year under the new deal. Teams retaining their own free agents can sign them for a maximum of six years instead of seven, and other teams can sign free agents for a maximum of five years. Annual salary increases for free agents also were reduced in the new contract. Players would be eligible for maximum raises of 10.5% if they re-sign with their current team (down from 12.5%), and 8% if they sign with a different team (down from 10%).</div> Source
