While Derek Fisher and Billy Hunter are publicly denying reports of a division between them, there also appears to be vastly differing opinions amongst the owners.

Micky Arison, owner of the Heat, was fined $500,000 for comments in reply to a fan on Twitter. Arison is believed to be amongst a group of owners eager to reach a deal with the players.

"All the small to medium markets are hardliners," said the source. "Not a single small-market team likes the 50/50 proposal."