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Report: NBA agents want Fehr to head NBPA

Donald Fehr: Sidney Crosby

Donald Fehr, left, executive director of the NHL players’ association, talks to reporters following collective bargaining talks between the NHLPA and the NHL in Toronto on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012. Players, from left, Detroit Red Wings’ Daniel Cleary, Edmonton Oilers’ Shawn Horcoff, Pittsburgh Penguins’ Sidney Crosby, Carolina Hurricanes’ Eric Staal and Phoenix Coyotes’ Shane Doan listen in the background. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Chris Young)

AP

If some “powerful” NBA agents have their way, Donald Fehr’s run as executive director of the NHLPA will be a brief (though eventful) one.

At least, that’s what CBSSports.com is reporting after embattled NBPA chief Billy Hunter was placed on leave last week.

One unnamed NBA agent said Fehr, 64, is exactly the kind of guy basketball players need representing them.

“He is somebody who would be formidable,” said the agent. “He would go tooth-and-nail on everything.”

It’s possible there could be another NBA labor battle in 2017 when each side has the ability to opt out of the current 10-year deal.

From CBSSports.com:

While Fehr has privately expressed no desire to leave his post [with the NHLPA], the person with knowledge of his plans said Fehr would be open to advising the NBA players during their leadership transition if, in fact, players decide to part ways permanently with Hunter.

Even if Fehr doesn’t end up taking his talents to the NBPA, it’s worth wondering about his future in hockey. The NHL’s new CBA will be in place for at least eight years. Does he have any intention of remaining in his current position that long?