Mayor Johnson and the Ron Burkle Factor

[thelonegunman]

First, let me start off by giving major props to Mayor Johnson for his efforts in trying to keep the NBA, more specifically the Kings, here in Sacramento.

That said, I'm wondering how much of the Mayor's gameplan / tactics have been influenced by Mr. Ron Burkle? It is my belief that Ron Burkle has been "advising" the Mayor regarding the steps he needed to take to have the best shot at keeping the Kings/NBA in town. I even believe he helped the Mayor outline his presentation to the Board of Governors.

Why do I believe this?

First, it has become public knowledge that Ron Burkle has been in the mix for several months now and didn't just come into the fray within the last week or two.

Secondly, Ron Burkle has experience with this type of situation (I'm sure everyone is well aware of the Pittsburgh Penguins situation by now) and he knows as well as anyone how the game is played.

Lastly, after I read the following article and began connecting all the dots (Burkle being involved for several months now combined with the Mayor's unexpected and surprising presentation, which included the announcement of Burkle's involvement), it occurred to me that Mayor Johnson has probably been coached by Ron Burkle the entire time.

I'm not trying to take anything away from Mayor Johnson, as his delivery and presence have been invaluable. I just believe he has received a lot of important information on how to approach this situation from outside of his inner circle of political aides. He went from doing so many things wrong (looking like a rookie Mayor in the process), to suddenly doing everything right (looking like a seasoned veteran). I don't believe this is a coincedence.

Looking back at how things have transpired over the past couple weeks/months, what do you guys think? Do you think Ron Burkle has done more than just offer to buy the team and/or assist with a building a new arena? Do you think I'm off base in thinking that he's been coaching KJ on what he needed to present to the NBA's Board of Governors, including the presence of a Billionaire investor??

 

[ParniValjak]

To be honest, its irrelevant. I am sure Burkle is more than just a figure in this whole process but who cares. All that matters is that it is putting pressure on both the NBA BOG and the Maloofs because thats the intended result. How you get there and who does the work does not really matter.

 

[Livinthedream]

I think KJ is smarter than you are giving him credit for. Every strong leader has advisors and seeks out opinions on how to resolve a situation. The best know who to seek out and what advice to take. As far as whose grand plan this all was is just speculation. But its kj'S city and his job on the line. So he gets the credit for execution.

 

[Siranthony]

I think KJ is smarter than you are giving him credit for. Every strong leader has advisors and seeks out opinions on how to resolve a situation. The best know who to seek out and what advice to take. As far as whose grand plan this all was is just speculation. But its kj'S city and his job on the line. So he gets the credit for execution.

^^^ This ^^^ Speculating too much will give you a headache.

 

[fnordius]

Maybe KJ just needed a while to get warmed up, or maybe he just looked a lot sillier before he pulled that big rabbit out of his hat.

If Burkle has no other meaning or worth for us at all, he is forcing the NBA to publicly decide the extent to which the property rights of owners trump the wishes of smaller markets, and the traditions of professional sports. Even if nothing immediate is accomplished, I see it as kind of a big deal.