Charles Barkley is not only known as one of the underrated greats in NBA history, but also as an analyst who makes bold statements.
He previously claimed he could beat LeBron James with their prime numbers, comparing current MVP Shy Gilgus Alexander to LeBron, not Michael Jordan.
Recently, Charles Barkley denounced LeBron James and Kevin Durant for reasons why the NBA created a second apron rule.
He believes their super team formation has been forced to implement financial restrictions on the league.
The Hall of Fame noted the formation of the super teams that dominated the league.
LeBron worked with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosch in Miami, and Durant joined Stephen Curry’s Warrior Dynasty.
Barkley believes that the superstars wanting to play together and dominate the league forced the NBA to set financial rules that minimize the formation of super teams.
The second apron represents the league’s attempt to restore a competitive balance through pay restrictions.
His arguments suggest that the empowerment of players and the actions of chasing the ring ultimately undermines the competitive integrity of the sport and requires intervention from league officials.
Kevin Durant fought back after hearing Berkley’s comments denounced players about changing rules.
The superstar pointed out that “mistakes” weren’t on players, and that the team executives didn’t.
Durant specifically denounced Warriors general manager Bob Myers when he joined the team.
“Yeah, we’re playing a denunciation game, so I chose Bob Myers as the fall guy,” Durant wrote.
Rather than demanding a maximum salary entirely, Durant actually agreed to a team-friendly two-year deal worth around $53 million.
This sacrifice helped Golden State maintain his championship core while adding his talent.
However, if a second apron was present, signing Durant was almost impossible unless he cut his massive pay cuts or the warriors dismantled their roster.
Myers was able to re-sign Andreig Odara, Shawn Livingston and others after Durant’s deal, as there was no “apron-based hard cap” restrictions.
The Warriors became the last dynasty to be privileged to compete without the restrictions of a second apron.
Even recent super teams like the Boston Celtics have rebuilt their rosters to avoid high-end tax penalties after the new rules are implemented.