That three-team trade involving the Lakers, Rockets and Hornets is back on. According to ESPN the three teams have resubmitted a deal for league approval that could put Chris Paul in purple and gold before Christmas. All of the particulars of the new deal are not known as of now.

We’ll just have to wait and see if this is more to Dan Gilbert’s liking or if David Stern will continue his marionette status.

Now we’re still not out of the woods yet. The lawyers still have to create the language of the new CBA. Then the union and the owners must separately approve the deal. But if David Stern’s words hold their weight then we’ll be watching NBA hoops on Christmas morning.

“We’ve reached a tentative understanding that is subject to a variety of approvals and very complex machinations, but we’re optimistic that will all come to pass and that the NBA season will begin Dec. 25.”

Finally Stern has something positive to say. And wouldn’t you know it even Billy Hunter offered some words of wisdom.

“We thought it was in both of our best interests to try to reach a resolution and save the game.”

Much more on this as the process unfolds. For now it looks like the best basketball league in the world will be back in business in time for the Holidays!