Just Offer Him a Drink of Water

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Sep 27, 2005 5:20PM

Clearly Bulls management doesn't watch enough CSI because then they'd know that to get a DNA sample, they don't actually have to ask for it -- just offer Eddy Curry something to drink and then remove DNA from the cup.

Such tactics might be necessary because Curry has thus far refused the Bulls request to submit to DNA testing that would give additional insight into the cause of his irregular heartbeat. Hopefully, the test would rule out a genetic disposition to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, "a potentially fatal condition when combined with arrhythmia."

While many would want to know what health risks they face, particularly when they have a physically strenuous job, Curry and his agent don't want the exam. The NBA Players' Union is backing Curry at this point, saying he's not required to submit to the test.

The Bulls counter that they can demand the test prior to clearing him to play, citing a clause in the collective bargaining agreement, ''The player must report for such physical examination at the time designated by the team and must, upon reporting ... submit to all examinations and tests requested of him ... ''

Curry's camp and the NBAPA insist that DNA testing ins't part of a physical exam and therefore not covered by the CBA. The union is trying to set a precedent that prevents teams from obtaining genetic information about players that could be used against them in contract negotiations. Team owners, who might look at DNA testing as a way to protect their investment in players, could use testing to determine a propensity towards a rash of health issues that could pose potential risks to players' ability to play out a contract.

Chicagoist thinks that Curry, his agent and the union are all idiots. They're hoping that Curry will be cleared to play and then sign a lucrative multi-year deal next summer should he go through the season without any issues. Because of concerns about his heart, the only offer on the table for the restricted free agent is the Bulls' $5.14 million, 1-year deal.

That lack of interest should tell Curry something about the possible seriousness of his health issue. He suffers from some sort of heart condition, and it isn't yet known whether it could be fatal. The DNA testing would give more insight into the risks he faces. While NBA teams are concerned with financial risk, Curry needs to think about risks involving his life and family. He recently got married. Does he want to risk dying on the court at 23? He needs to put his family ahead of his greed and take the test so that he can ensure his health. Had he done so and been cleared, he might have received a bigger offer from the Bulls -- something along the lines of the $63 million Tyson Chandler received. Were he not cleared, at least he'd find out before he find out the hard way. He can't spend his millions when he's dead. And while I'm sure his wife enjoys the trappings of being an NBA wife, she'd rather have her husband than another Bentley.