With the lockout about to enter the beginning of its fifth month, there is a strong belief on both sides that a Friday session could produce the framework of a new NBA collective bargaining agreement.

“It’s moved to a very good place,” one source briefed on Thursday’s 7½-hour bargaining session told Yahoo! Sports. “There’s a strong expectation [within the negotiations] that hands will shake [Friday].”

Talks will resume at 10:30 AM EST on Friday.

The sides are expected to quickly progress to the proposed revenue split of BRI.

“I think we’re within reach – and within striking distance of getting a deal,” Players Association executive director Billy Hunter said. “It’s just how receptive the NBA is, and whether they want to do a deal.”