In most cases discussions start out in a general sense in regard to needs and excesses of the two clubs. At some point that progresses beyond that level to get into specific names. That usually will take place at the higher levels.

We're going to know pretty early on, I think, whether it's going to be an effective process or not.

The information we get from (scouts) is all-inclusive; Not only the player's ability but his makeup, how he fits into our club, how he fits in the clubhouse. Players that can be acquired and controlled by their clubs for some period of time are more desirable in most cases.

They make very few mistakes in terms of evaluating players.

Plus, they continue to restock the pipeline, and this year has been a great example of that.

There is no secret formula; they just do things better than everyone else, ... They have scouted and evaluated their own players, and other players, better than any other team in recent memory.

Typically you're talking about multiple days, maybe even multiple weeks. Then again, there may be some deal that both clubs know is right for them, and you do it in a very short period of time.

If New Orleans passes on this opportunity to improve itself, then we're not going to be a company headquartered in New Orleans. I guess that's our bottom line.

That's why they've been able to create a winning environment, from top to bottom.