Why is Arenas suspended and Crittendon is not?
They are both alleged to have participated in firearms violations in the locker room, contrary to CBA Section 9:
Section 9. Firearms.
(a) Whenever a player is physically present at a facility or venue owned, operated, or being used by a Team, the NBA, or any League-related entity, and whenever a player is traveling on any NBA-related business, whether on behalf of the player’s Team, the NBA, or any League-related entity, such player shall not possess a firearm of any kind. For purposes of the foregoing, “a facility or venue” includes, but is not limited to: an arena; a practice facility; a Team or League office or facility; an All-Star or NBA Playoff venue; and the site of a promotional or charitable appearance.
(b) Any violation of Section 9(a) above shall be considered conduct prejudicial to the NBA under Article 35(d) of the NBA Constitution and By-Laws, and shall therefore subject the player to discipline by the NBA in accordance with such Article.
The allegation is still under investigation and yet to be proven, therefore no suspension for either is (yet) warranted.
Arenas, however, had the subsequent mock shooting (with fingers as guns) event, which is on video and not in dispute.
According to the NBA Constitution and Bylaws Article 35(d):
(d) The Commissioner shall have the power to suspend for a definite or indefinite period, or to impose a fine not exceeding $50,000, or inflict both such suspension and fine upon any Player who, in his opinion, (i) shall have made or caused to be made any statement having, or that was designed to have, an effect prejudicial or detrimental to the best interests of basketball or of the Association or of a Member, or (ii) shall have been guilty of conduct that does not conform to standards of morality or fair play, that does not comply at all times with all federal, state, and local laws, or that is prejudicial or detrimental to the Association.
Apparently, under this section, it is Stern's opinion that Arenas' actions constitute a "statement" that has "...an effect prejudicial or detrimental to the best interests of basketball or of the Association or of a Member"
Whether Arenas, or any of us, agree with that rule, that is the rule that NBA member teams and members of the Players Association are contractually bound to live by.
That is why Stern can do what he did.