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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Even though Alex Rodriguez has quickly become “people’s owner” in the Minnesota Timberwolves, his fight hasn’t ended. The New York Yankees legend is still trying to assert his authority on the team. However, there have always been doubts regarding his long-term future with the T-Wolves. The way the ownership deal abruptly ended created a situation that has multiple endings. But A-Rod will surely not like the conclusion indicated by the latest reports.

Though Rodriguez and his partner Marc Lore are undergoing an arbitration battle against Glen Taylor, things aren’t as simple as they look. As per Pioneer Press’ Charley Walters, there are layers to this storyg that need to be addressed. Walters revealed that a “well-positioned” NBA source shared that Taylor is better-positioned to prevail in the Minnesota Timberwolves ownership dispute due to one very big reason.

Glen Taylor will prevail in the Timberwolves’ ownership dispute against out-of-towners Alex Rodriguez, Marc Lore, and recent addition, Michael Bloomberg, the former New York City mayor. Even if the trio were to win an arbitration case against Taylor, it still would need sale approval from the NBA, Walter’s source said. 

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The issue lies in getting the approval of the NBA. Alex Rodriguez and his partners will need 24 of the 30 NBA owners to approve their entry into the league. That is easier said than done, especially because Glen Taylor has close relationships with nearly every owner. In that case, it becomes a huge battle of wits here with Rodriguez’s troubles not ending even after a possible arbitration win.

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However, there’s one more reason why the teams might not like this sale. And it has to do with the price at which the deal was originally signed. 

Alex Rodriguez’s troubles haven’t ended yet 

Per Ted Schwerzler of Minnesota Sports Fan, NBA Franchises might not like seeing the $1.5 billion sale completed. Especially during a time when most of the franchises are going over three or four billion dollars. Approving the Timberwolves’ sale at a price much below its current market value could hurt the perceived value of others.

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The pricing issue isn’t new, it was reported to be one of the primary reasons why Taylor initially pulled out of the deal. As a result, Alex Rodriguez will have to work overtime to convince teams to allow his entry. Even though that situation hasn’t arrived yet, A-Rod might need to start preparations soon. Yes, he seems confident in his chances of winning the arbitration battle.

But there’s a whole new war waiting for him after that fight. What do you make of Rodriguez’s troubles? Share your thoughts in the comments below.