This is a bit of a stetch on comparisons, but I have always thought that Jose Bautista reminded me of Roger Maris. Both came out of the blue with home run totals.
I think the super stars will come back to the NBA, and a few of the bench players will stay for more money (like what Josh Childress did). This is just like what happend durring the NHL lockout. Also, the EURO game is very different than the NBA game, its a lot slower.
I have not found a vintage card website that sells cards that I like, but I would try local card shows or card shops. I know in Georgia at a few card shows there is usually a guy who sells the older vintage cards and I want to say I've seen a few of those in his booth.
Hope this helps!