Richard Hamilton buyout

This year's free agency class just got a little deeper. The Detroit Pistons have negotiated a buyout with shooting guard Richard Hamilton, ending the two year $25 million he was owed. Hamilton can immediately sign with a new team, rather than having to be placed on waivers, had the Pistons used their amnesty clause on his contract. He fell out of the rotation with Head Coach John Kuester last season, but was still effective, averaging 14.1ppg on 0.429% and 0.382% from the field and from 3 respectively. Hamilton is one of the better 'shooting' shooting guards in the L and moving without the ball. He would be a great pickup for teams like the Bulls, Nets, Knicks or Wizards. If the Bulls, Nets and/or Knicks miss out on Vince Carter, as Caron Butler is with the Clippers, Hamilton could be a decent pickup. All three need an improvement at the 2, and Rip would be perfect in all three rotations. For the Wizards, he would most likely be their sixth man, provided Nick Young returns to the team, who is a restricted free agent.

Summary: Players make verbal agreement with NBA teams.

NBA Free Agency is starting to begin, with a number of players stating where they will be signing for the upcoming season. The effect most of them will have on their new teams will be remarkable.

Shane Battier, the defensive small forward recently of the Memphis Grizzlies, has agreed to join the Miami Heat. This is a huge addition for a team that needed a sixth man last season, as guard Mike Miller and forward Udonis Haslem were both injured in different intervals for much of the season. Having Battier off the bench will create a dynamic second unit for Miami, in addition to making them a scary defensive team.

Moving Dwyane Wade to point guard, bringing in Battier at the 2, LeBron James at the 3, then Chris Bosh and Joel Anthony in the frontcourt, teams will be hardpressed to find decent shots on offense, on the perimeter and in the paint. Battier will also fit in well on the offensive end, as Wade and LeBron will often drive and kick to open shooters. He is renowned for his ability to make 3's, shooting 0.382% last season and having made 979 for his career. This was an anticipated deal, but it will prove successful for both sides.

Tracy McGrady has agreed in principle to a one year deal with the Atlanta Hawks. With the expected departure of Jamaal Crawford to another team, McGrady will most likely come in and provide in a sixth man role. There may be the possibility of him starting at small forward, with Marvin Williams yet to show the promise of being selected 2nd overall in the 2005 draft and rumours of Josh Smith being traded. The two could be packaged together or separately to bring in quality players for the Hawks. McGrady averaged only 8.0ppg, his lowest since his rookie season, but did participate in 72 games which is the most he has played in 6 years. He will be a solid addition to the Hawks, regardless of Crawford's decision.

 Shannon Brown, the high flying guard formerly of the Los Angeles Lakers, will appear in a Suns uniform this season. He has agreed to a one year deal worth $3.5 million, and a possible situation to start for the team. With Vince Carter being amnestied by the team, and back up point guard Aaron Brooks in China until March, Brown will come in at the 2 and also provided time at the 1 when Steve Nash needs a break. He developed a reliable 3 point shot the last two seasons, and will be perfect in the Suns offensive system, running the break alongside Nash. He received 19.1mpg with the Lakers last year, stuck behind Kobe Bryant, but those minutes will dramatically increase for him in Phoenix.

Chuck Hayes, the 6"6' center (yes you read that correctly) free agent from Houston, is expected to be in Sacramento when training camp begins. A four year, $20 million deal is anticipated to be accepted by Hayes, who will join a young Kings team poised to rise in the West. Sacramento already has a steady frontline, so it will be interesting to see how they all fit in together. Hayes is one of the best low post defenders in the league, despite his height, as he is remarkably strong down in the post. He averaged career highs of 8.1ppg and 8.2rpg last season with the Rockets, and will be expected to do just that with the Kings.

Tyson Chandler, one of the more coveted players this free agency, is said to be joining the New York Knicks. This doesn't come as much of a surprise for two reasons: 1. Chandler was on his way out of Dallas, and the league knew it. 2. The Knicks want Chris Paul to run the franchise in the future, and signing one of his best friends was a good move. Chandler and Paul have been close since their days in New Orleans, and with Paul becoming a free agent next offseason and wanting to play in New York, signing the big man more or less has confirmed that outcome. By doing so, management may have made a mistake. Chandler's deal is said to be around $60 million over 4 seasons, making him one of the three highest paid centres in the NBA, trailing only All-Star Dwight Howard and the Lakers' Andrew Bynum. The Knicks will likely have to trade or amnesty one of their players, specifically Chauncey Billups and Ronny Turiaf, to make room for Chandler and/or Paul. An article will be released soon analysing this scenario, so for now, we'll wait until then.

Chandler will bring toughness, defensive prowess and rebounding to a team in need of all three. He was a game changer in the Finals with the Dallas Mavericks, patrolling the paint and bolstering their defense against the offensively powerful Miami Heat. The Heat will have to seek out a strong centre to match up with Chandler; one of the bigger holes in their rotation. He was the x-factor against Miami in the playoffs, and will do so again unless Miami can come up with a solution. Chandler averaged 10.1ppg and 9.4rpg and will be a very good addition to an already strong rotation with the New York Knicks.

Caron Butler will team up with Blake Griffin and Eric Gordon in Los Angeles this season. After numerous offers from teams that included San Antonio, Chicago and New Jersey, Butler ultimately decided on the 3 year $24 million proposed by the Clippers. He will have the exciting opportunity to play on a young team and provide veteran leadership and scoring. Butler will presumably take over the small forward spot, thereby giving the Clippers one of the more complete and solid starting line ups in the league. With an athletic frontcourt of Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, dynamic scoring and 3 point threats Mo Williams and Eric Gordon in the backcourt, and all around scorer Caron Butler at the 3, opposing teams will have to step up their defense against a Clippers team that looks to be on the rise. He averaged 15.0ppg on 0.450% shooting in 29 games with the Mavericks last season, before rupturing a tendon in his knee. Butler recovered in time for the Finals, but did not participate as Coach Rick Carlisle did not want to disrupt the chemistry in the rotation. There is no indicator whether or not Butler will be able to play as well as he did before the injury; the Clippers are optimistic, for their sake.

After speculation that he might join the Clippers or Warriors, Tayshaun Prince did the opposite and stayed in Detroit. The 6'9" forward out of Kentucky chose loyalty over riches and decided to help the rebuilding process with the Pistons. Drafting point guard Brandon Knight (also from Kentucky) and centre Greg Monroe the season before, the Pistons look to have the right pieces to build a team around and try to rise back to the Playoffs. Prince has spent his entire career in Detroit and will remain there, agreeing on a 4 year $27 million deal. He averaged 14.1ppg on 0.473% and is a solid player at the 3. One of the better defensive wings in the league, Prince will also help Detroit bolster their defense and attempt to become a strong team on that end of the floor, something they have struggled with as of late.

Greg Oden, the oft injured centre of the Portland Trailblazers, will return to the team this season. Despite playing in only 82 games the past two seasons, management is willing to take their chances and stick by the 7 footer. He averages 9.4ppg and 7.3rpg, along with 1.4bpg, for his career at this point in time, so there is a reasonable idea of what sort of player he will be. Oden signed on the qualifying offer the Trailblazers extended, which is worth $8.9 million; an amount other teams could/would not match. Oden also expressed sentiments that he feels he owes a loyalty to the team for sticking by him throughout the duration of his career while he has been inactive. Hopefully he can return this season and show the promise he deserved, being drafted 1st overall in 2007.

Eddy Curry has agreed, in principle, to join the Miami Heat. The team has wanted Curry for a while, and now has the chance to add him to their roster. He has only participated in 10 games the last 3 seasons, but the Heat still feel he can return to his play as a dominant post scorer. Curry has battled injury and weight issues the past few seasons, and takes harsh criticism for both, especially after signing a $60 million deal with the New York Knicks in 2005. Curry averages 13.3ppg and 5.3rpg while shooting 0.545% for his career, which are solid numbers. A look at his stat sheet for his career, it will show a huge drop off in 2009. People are quick to blame that he was overweight and unfit, but they forget a primary reason why Curry's production dropped off. On January 25th 2009, Curry's ex-girlfriend and their 9 month old daughter were found murdered in Chicago. The grief would have been more than enough to throw his concentration and motivation, and it's infuriating to see the criticism he receives. People act as if he should just shrug it off and keep playing. Curry has a close relationship with LeBron James, and the Heat organization is loyal, so he will fit in well with the group they have. They need a decent back up centre, and Curry's length and weight inside will give them a solid post player not present since the departure of Shaquille O'Neal. 

Jason Kapono, formerly recognized as one of the league's best shooters, will join the Los Angeles Lakers with a one year deal for the veteran's minimum (around $1.2 million). He will give them a 3 point threat off the bench with the departure of Shannon Brown, who will play for the Phoenix Suns this season. Kapono is remarkably accurate from deep, averaging 0.437% for his career, and even shot 0.514% in 2007. He had an off year with the 76ers last season, scoring just 0.7ppg in 4.7 minutes over 24 games. The emergence of guard Jodie Meeks as Philadelphia's primary 3 point threat meant that Kapono slipped from the rotation. He will likely receive a bigger role in LA.

Players will be able to sign these contracts officially tomorrow, when Day 1 of Free Agency will begin. Trade rumours are already beginning (the NBA pulled the plug on a 'Chris Paul to the Lakers trade' today), so we'll see what the NBA has in store for the fans.

Richard Jefferson let go from San Antonio

It was announced recently that the San Antonio Spurs will put the amnesty clause to use and cut forward Richard Jefferson from their roster. He is owed $30 over the next 3 years, which the Spurs are still obligated to pay, but they do not have to pay any luxury tax, and it comes off the salary cap, meaning they could make a splash in free agency. The Spurs are after Caron Butler, Shane Battier and Josh Howard, and cutting Jefferson is an indicator that the Spurs are serious in their approach to the aforementioned players. Therefore, Jefferson might be more willing to accept a pay cut to join a contending team. He averaged 11.0ppg and 3.9rpg in his second season with San Antonio, which appears statistically worst than his year with the Spurs in '09-'10. His scoring, rebounding, assist, block, steal, turnover and foul averages were all slightly lower last year, while his shooting percentages improved, his 3 point shooting in particular.

In '09-'10 Jefferson averaged 0.316% from deep, making only 59 of 187 shots from beyond the arc. Then last season, that sky-rocketed to 0.440% which was good for 4th in the NBA, tied with Luke Ridnour and Mike Bibby. Additionally, this wasn't a scenario of Jefferson improving his shot selection and appearing dominant from 3; a situation present with Grant Hill of the Phoenix Suns, who shot 0.395% last year yet made only 45 shots from deep. Jefferson looked like a completely different player, making an incredible 135 shots out of 307 last season. That makes a new career high for him, with only his one year in Milwaukee coming close in terms of 3 point shooting. Playing with such efficiency questions why the Spurs would let him go, apart from his annual salary, as Jefferson was one of the main reasons they jumped from 11th in team 3 point percentage in '09-'10 to 1st in the league last year. This will bold well for Jefferson as he looks for a new team.

Depending on the role he is willing to accept will determine which team Jefferson ends up with. He would drastically improve teams like Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles (either), Memphis, Miami, New Jersey, New York, Phoenix, Sacramento or Washington. The success of the Spurs in the regular season might push Jefferson to sign with a contending team, therefore taking a paycut and taking a lesser role. The Celtics, Heat, Bulls, Mavericks, Lakers and Knicks could all give him a good shot at a title, but for a significantly lesser salary. If he is after cash, the Clippers, Nets, Kings, Rockets and Nuggets could all be potential suitors as they need depth at the 2 and 3.

Jefferson averages 16.4 points per game for his career, so wherever he signs,  that is what he will be expected to do: score and rain down threes. Every team in the NBA could use a player of his calibre, its up to Jefferson to decide which one it will be.

Tyson Chandler and The Mavs

It's known league-wide that Tyson Chandler expects to be in a different uniform next season. He has said Dallas is his preferred destination, yet also disclosed that both parties were far apart on closing out a deal. The Mavericks are trying to find a way to bring back all of the major contributors last season in Caron Butler, J.J Barea, DeShawn Stevenson and finally Chandler. To do so would put them over the cap limit for player salaries: a situation they wish to avoid, as the 2012 free agency period will feature some big names.

I'm sure every fan is wondering why on earth the Mavs would pass on re-signing him, until recently a report stated what Chandler expects as a salary per season. It is said he is requesting around $12 million per season, a steep price that not many teams can afford. It's no doubt that Chandler was the missing link for Dallas this season/postseason, and one of the reasons they defeated the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals, but that sort of demand is too high. His play was impressive and game changing at intervals, but not enough to merit a salary of that magnitude. Taking that money would place him alongside players like Manu Ginobili, Steve Nash, Carlos Boozer and LaMarcus Aldridge; solid players capable of carrying a team. As much of an impact Chandler can make, it's not enough to demand such a price.

Potentially, that might be the reason why Dallas has abandoned their approach to resign the 7'1" centre. It certainly would make other teams lose interest in their pursuit, as teams like Miami, Boston, the LA Clippers, or Houston can't afford to shell out that much to one player.

Either Chandler reconsiders his approach, or he will find it hard to sign with a decent team.

Vince Carter on the outs in Phoenix

Much like Nate Robinson, Vince Carter will be cut from his team's roster this free agency. Carter is owed $18.3 million on his current contract, which can be voided using the amnesty clause; an addition coming from the lockout that allows a player's contract to come off the books. Doing so would provide Phoenix with financial relief, and one less player in their late 30's on the roster.

Carter could then sign with another team, most probably a contender, and make a run at a championship: an accolade that has evaded Vince Carter at this point in his career. The Bulls would be ideal, if they don't manage to bring in a quality shooting guard during free agency. Charlotte and Washington are young teams that could use a veteran scorer, as are New Jersey and Portland. If Carter wants to really contend, he'd have to take a bench role with Miami, Boston, Oklahoma City or the Lakers. In Miami, provided Tracy McGrady signs there as well, the two could be a sixth-men tandem and provide a scoring punch off the bench. A possible Orlando return could be in the cards, with Jason Richardson likely leaving for another team.

Carter will make an impact on whichever team he joins, regardless of his age. He just might be the missing link for some teams in the running for a ring.

Nate Robinson a soon to be free agent?

I just read an article on SB Nation (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2011/11/30/2601137/nate-robinson-oklahoma-city-thunder-buy-out/in/2239055) that Nate Robinson and the Oklahoma City Thunder are working on a buyout that would make him a free agent. He would be well coveted by several teams, although his stock has dropped considerably the last few seasons, that people forget how well he played. Before a run in with Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOhLgApNrgM) and being traded away from New York, he averaged 17.2ppg in '08-'09. He also finished third in Sixth Man of the Year award, behind the Nuggets J.R Smith and eventual winner Maverick Jason Terry.

My favourite memory of him is after being benched by D'Antoni for an entire month, came off the bench and exploded for 41 points. The Knicks traded him away a month later to the Celtics, where he played well in a limited role. He joined Kendrick Perkins in the move to the Thunder, but received only 7.5mpg through 4 games. Robinson is requesting a buyout from the team as, clearly, the Thunder has no desire to include him in their rotation. Despite being a fan favourite wherever he plays, it is rumoured he is temperamental occasionally, which would lead teams to avoid him.

Ultimately he is an offensive threat at 5'9" and there will be teams that will gamble on his attitude to take on his skills as a starter or a sixth man.  Robinson is used to this role, having started only 72 games over the 397 he has participated in, so don't be surprised to see him resume his dynamic scoring off the bench. He's only 27 and just entering his prime and teams lacking scoring will definitely make him an offer. Milwaukee, Charlotte, New Jersey, New Orleans and Atlanta had the worst offenses last season and getting Robinson would improve this issue. I personally like the idea of Robinson signing with the Bulls as their sixth man, which would be intriguing. Moving Derrick Rose to shooting guard and Robinson coming in at the point would present a versatile backcourt. He is already familiar with head coach Tom Thibodeau from his days in Boston. All the Bulls would need is a decent starting 2 guard and they would have one of the better benches in the league. He would be a nice addition in Charlotte, what with their rebuilding project, and provide some scoring and veteran leadership. New Orleans doesn't seem likely, although he could be a possible answer at point guard if Chris Paul leaves the Hornets. For Milwaukee and Atlanta, he would provide that sixth man role that both teams could definitely use. Even if Jamal Crawford does return to the Hawks (however unlikely) Robinson could be the backup point guard and give them a scoring punch. The Bucks need as much scoring as they can get, with Brandon Jennings and Stephen Jackson as the only players who can create their own shot. Regardless of the team Robinson joins, he will make an impact.

The Lockout looks to be over

Finally! Woke up to the owners and the NBPA (National Basketball Players Association) closing out a deal after months of discussion and debating. While it isn't 100 percent official, as there are some small details to finalize before the bargaining agreement can be approved, its the closest both sides have come since the beginning of the lockout. The issues include: rookie salaries, drug testing, minimal age limit to enter the league and an additional six pages worth that need to be looked at before basketball can resume. Once these are resolved, a majority vote from all 450 (approx.) NBA players is needed, as well as from the owners. The New Orleans Hornets are without a majority owner, and currently belong to the NBA, so a vote of 15 from 29 owners is needed. Optimistically, NBA basketball will be played this season; and I couldn't be happier. The last few months have been gloomy and unexciting with nothing to occupy my spare time. Additionally, it looked like I had started this blog for nothing, but now that can be forgotten.

The expected date for free agency to begin is December 9 and the actual season to begin Christmas Day. With the horde of big men on the market, that includes Tyson Chandler, Nene, David West and other quality players, it could be a whole new set of teams ready to play. The NBA will kick back into gear on the 25th with a group of exciting matchups: Miami will play the Mavericks in Dallas and watch them raise their championship banner (an almost cruel scenario). Boston will be up against New York; the team they knocked out of the Playoffs. The Los Angeles Lakers will look to redeem their postseason struggles against the Derrick Rose-lead Chicago Bulls. The Magic will head to Oklahoma City to face Kevin Durant and the Thunder, and finally the LA Clippers will go up against the Golden State Warriors.