Yes, you are late to the party and it IS parity, but a needed one in many respects. Also know that Buttman did not win all the goodies-- the players won quite a few as well in the CBA. They are the ones that ultimately benefit from the salary cap except that it does give newbies an edge cuz they play cheaper. It means that once you get to the top you better make sure your stats stay there. On the other hand, respected older guys get front-office jobs nowadays more, I think, like Yzie.