Grant Hill really doesn't care about winning a championship. That's how I interpret the latest news surrounding the free-agent forward (via Mark Murphy - Boston Herald):
The Celtics’ obvious edge over the Knicks and Suns - their chances of winning another NBA title - may not play a deciding factor in the chase for Hill, who professed a strong affinity for the Knicks and New York during an interview with the media.
The source added that Hill, however, may simply be attempting to leverage a better deal in Phoenix.
“Grant is a very complex individual,” the source said.
The Celtics can only offer Hill their $1.9 million biannual exception. According to the Arizona Republic, the Knicks have offered the option of a one-year, $5 million contract or a three-year, $10 million deal.
I have one thing to say to Hill: Go to NY. Enjoy the "mecca." It will be great for your wife's career. But you won't win crap. Your legacy will remain that of an oft-injured Dukie who never sniffed playoff success in the NBA.
The Hornets are reportedly interested in BBD, but there's still not a lot of buzz around the league for Glen Davis. According to one report, the Spurs are offering Antonio McDyess a three-year contract starting at the full mid-level exception ($5.854 million). Can you say "overpaid?" The Nuggets are giving the Birdman a 5 yr, $26 million deal. Bad news for the Matt Barnes fan club, a handful of teams are interested in the forward but the Celtics aren't one of them.
For those salary capologists out there:
The NBA salary cap for the 2009-’10 season dropped to $57.7 million, and the luxury tax threshold to $69.2 million, the league told its teams Tuesday night.
The mid-level exception is set at $5.854 million.
In the private memo to teams, the NBA reported what the seven franchises paying luxury tax had to give up to the rest of the league. The list included: The Knicks ($23.7 million), Mavericks ($23.6 million), Cavs ($13.7 million), Celtics ($8.29 million), Lakers ($7.1 million), Blazers ($5.8 million) and Suns ($4.9 million).
I cannot thank this ownership group enough for their willingness to spend money.
Other Links: Herald - Celtics Foes Heed Wallace | Globe - Point Made By Hudson | ESPN - Celtics Catch Glimpse of Future | Cavs Close with Varajeao, Anthony Parker |