When Utah signed Andrei Kirilenko to a six year, 86 million dollar ‘max’ contract in 2004, they expected a star. He was deemed ‘The Guy’, a player capable of stuffing the stat sheet, defending four positions, and leading in the post Stockton-to-Malone era. 

The Jazz, still flush with cap space, also invested 110 million dollars in multi-year pacts for power forward Carlos Boozer and center Mehmet Okur. They also drafted Deron Williams, who quickly developed into an elite point guard and All-Star.

‘The Guy’ grew frustrated with fourth banana status, requesting trades, feuding with coach Jerry Sloan, and breaking into tears in front of reporters. Rumours had him breaking his lucrative NBA contract to join CSKA Moscow in his native Russia.

The club had few options. A trade was unlikely because Kirilenko’s stock had plummeted and opponents were only offering their expensive problems. A buyout, paying him to disappear while getting nothing back, wasn’t happening either.

So they stayed put. Salt Lake City’s patience will get rewarded. The ‘Euro’ has shifted to the bench for pre-season, functioning as sixth-man. This is perfect. The Russian gets to play his preferred power forward spot, becomes the primary scorer with the second-unit, and can influence tempo with his energy.

Everybody wins. Kirilenko feels loved. And Utah has someone to fill the Manu Ginobili role.

There is another angle. Boozer and Okur each hold player options for 2009-10 and could leave as free agents in July. Boozer has been linked to Miami, while Okur might get an offer he can’t refuse. Kirilenko is insurance, a 6-10 version of All-State until management figures out the four and five spots long-term.

‘AK-47’, even at 16 million dollars per season, has value. And his situation is worth watching in 2008-09.

Would Kirilenko work as first player off Utah’s bench? Should the Jazz hang onto him with the unknown future of their frontcourt? Get at us in the comment box with thoughts and return to HoopsVibe the Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of Kris247.  

Every week, HoopsVibe The Blog drops a basketball related list for fans to debate. We call it ‘Listed’ …

Sixteen years ago, the business of basketball was good. Stars named Larry, Magic, and Michael changed the NBA brand in America. The Finals were no longer on tape delay; under their watch the league became a multi-billion dollar industry.

After conquering the States, the suits at NBA head office went global. First up, the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. No mercy was shown. Team USA took first place and reclaimed its perch atop the basketball world.

Looking back, the gold medal wasn’t the prize. Every American player was mobbed, given rock star treatment on foreign soil. The overseas adventure confirmed Commissioner Stern’s hunch that the world wanted the NBA.

A plan to globalize was set. No continent was left untouched. Today, with an economic downturn looming, these international markets will provide much-needed revenue to cushion slowing demand for the NBA in America.

The game of basketball no longer belongs to the USA. Neither does the business of basketball. Some form of expansion into Europe is coming. The NBA is also building stadiums in China, foreshadowing a sister league.

In this edition of ‘Listed’, HoopsVibe examines five international markets the NBA is eyeing to boost revenues. Get at us in the comment box below with thoughts.  

#5) Australia 

Pluses: ‘Aussies’ love sports. And their basketball fans have discretionary income to spend. Best of all, the ’Land Down Under’ has produced two NBA players in Andrew Bogut and Nathan Jawai. A third is coming with guard Pattie Mills. 

Minuses (well, sort of): They have an established domestic league called the NBL, which loses money. So an NBA-NBL partnership makes sense. The NBA would get a foothold into a new market, while the NBL would have access to cash.

#4) Brazil

Pluses: Basketball is big in South America. Brazil has a hoops tradition, producing international legend Oscar Schmidt and Phoenix’s Leandro Barbosa and Denver’s Nene Hilario. Brazil possesses the economic might to support exhibition games and buy merchandise.

Minuses: A wide gap exists between the rich and poor, which complicates any business relationship.

#3) India 

Pluses: India has ‘A Billi’-as in a billion people to buy NBA products, goods, and watch games. They also possess the world’s largest democracy, which will solidify its budding economy.

Minuses: The South Asian country loves field hockey and cricket, but there is little basketball culture. The NBA would need to invest time, money, and effort. The payoff could be lucrative considering ‘Bollywood’, India’s film industry, regularly out-grosses Hollywood.  

#2) Europe 

Pluses: Parts of Europe are basketball mad. They have excellent youth programs and professional leagues. With many Euros balling in America, their population is also aware of the NBA.

Stern knows this market well. Europe Live, the league’s exhibition series against top clubs, is an annual event. The push will continue at the London Olympics in 2012 and some form of expansion or a European Division has been discussed.

Minuses: Well, geography. Europe is hours away by plane. Also, each country has its own separate professional league and these organizations don’t like collaborating. Finally, European basketball is still viewed as unprofessional. Stories of owners withholding pay and poor player accommodation is common. The situation is improving with a stronger currency and influx of ‘Petro’ dollars.

#1) China 

Pluses: Over one billion people. And ratings for the Yao-Yi duel left no doubt China loves basketball. The upside is obvious. Right now, the NBA is cementing a partnership to build and manage arenas in China. This means an affiliate league is coming –and soon.

Minuses: Again, geography. And there are concerns about the government’s human rights record. Both are mitigated by China’s future as the world’s economic power.  

Where will the NBA go next? Where is the NBA’s top new market? Get at us in the comment box below and come back to HoopsVibe the Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of bugsage.  

There is no chance Allen Iverson stays in Denver. If the Nuggets struggle, he gets traded for prospects/cap relief. If the Nuggets are competitive, he still could get traded because his contract expires in July. If the Nuggets keep him for the year, he leaves as an unrestricted free agent come summer.

One thing is certain: ownership won’t extend Iverson. The club is losing money and George’s Karl’s offensive experiment has failed, which means a rebuilding project is approaching. Expensive veterans, even talented ones, won’t work long-term.

The superstar understands the situation. The winds of change are about to blow in Colorado. His bags are likely packed; the realtor’s ‘For Sale sign is ready.

Any mid-season trade is temporary. Iverson, as an unrestricted free agent in July of 2009, can pick between suitors. Will he sign with a mediocre team for big money and first-option status? Or will he sign with a contender for less money and less shots?

Hopefully, Iverson chooses the latter. The tiny guard should offer to be the top reserve on an established squad. The critics, the ones who claimed he wouldn’t sacrifice or play within a team concept, would be silenced.

Detroit and San Antonio would be perfect for a slightly toned down version of ‘The Answer’. Both should look at signing him next summer.

The Pistons have gambled on temperamental stars before. In February 2004, they took a risk acquiring Rasheed Wallace and a few months later were rewarded with an NBA Title. ‘Sheed’ was the missing ingredient and the post’s behaviour has improved in Detroit.

Joe Dumars must consider the All-Star scorer. This summer, the Pistons’ head suit talked publicly about changing his club and Iverson would provide a Wallace-like jolt. The problem is Rodney Stuckey. A superstar sixth-man would hinder the prospect’s development. Stuckey, like all budding youngsters, needs minutes.

Go big or go home. That’s the Texas way. The Spurs should follow the state mantra and upgrade their core with the Georgetown alum. Iverson would make a great second-unit game-changer; his presence would push Manu Ginobili into the starting five.

San Antonio needs the tweak. The west has gotten better. Houston traded for Ron Artest, New Orleans signed James Posey, and the Los Angeles Lakers are expecting the Andrew Bynum-Pau Gasol combo to deliver. The black-and-silver could counter these moves by going fast in the backcourt with Iverson and Tony Parker (talk about a deadly combo off the dribble).

Gregg Popovich, Tim Duncan, and the Spurs would mesh with Iverson. The franchise’s four championships demand respect, while A.I. has been a model citizen with the Nuggets. Finally, ‘Pop’ is close with Iverson’s former coach Larry Brown, so he would do his research before making any commitment.

Like it or not, Iverson’s run in Denver is winding down. What happens next impacts his legacy. Hopefully, he joins a contender and we can again watch him in June.

Where is the best place for Iverson? Detroit? San Antonio? Or elsewhere? Get at us in the comment box below with thoughts and return to HoopsVibe the Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of coursond34.

You could understand if Al Thornton felt a little slept-on. The talk in Clipper-land has mostly revolved around signing Baron Davis, losing Elton Brand, and trying to replace Brand with former Denver Nugget Marcus Camby.

Of course, Chris Kaman’s German citizenship and Elgin Baylor’s recent pink slip also generated chatter. Lost in the headlines has been Thornton. His 2007-08 aerial antics overshadowed by bigger names and bigger stories.

This will change. And fast. Fans will quickly remember Thornton getting Stuart Scott love on ESPN Sports Centre last spring. They’ll also realize he’s poised to breakthrough in 2008-09.

The biggest difference will be playing time. Last season, Thornton averaged 13 points and 5 rebounds per game in 27 minutes. He also started 31 times. This summer, Corey Maggette migrated north to Golden State via free agency, which leaves the starting 3-spot for Thornton.

More minutes means more numbers. Consistent playing time also ensures a peace of mind, especially with younger pros. Instead of shuffling back-and-forth between the first-unit and bench, Thornton knows he’ll get heavy burn each night as the starter.

Davis, when healthy and fit, is an elite point guard. And right now, Mr. Jenny Craig looks svelte, so he’ll draw extra defenders and create opportunities for others. Thornton should expect a steady diet of open looks and easy baskets.

The All-Star point guard will also force L.A. to run. ‘Boom Dizzle’ pushing the tempo suits an athletic finisher like Thornton. The former first round pick will convert in the open-court and on-the-break. Chances are, he’ll do it in spectacular fashion, too.

(Davis to Thornton, spectacular indeed.)

The twins will have his back defensively. Thornton has the length and quickness to lock-up his check, but Camby and Kaman’s interior presence will allow him to gamble and play the passing lanes. Getting beat on the perimeter isn’t a big deal with two shot-blocking posts protecting the basket.

Al Thornton is set to explode. The up-and-coming swing will soon give Clipper-heads something very positive to discuss. 

Is Thornton the NBA’s breakthrough player in 2008-09? Get at us with thoughts on him or your pick as the best budding star in the comment box below. Come back to HoopsVibe The Blog for more basketball tidbits. Photo courtesy of bobby241591. 

NBA news mixed with analysis …

Their News: “Nash, who has an all-but-guaranteed team option for next season, said he knows he wants to play two more seasons beyond that contract — which would take him through the 2011-12 season and his 38th birthday — and he might play longer if he still feels healthy and passionate about the game.

“I know I want to play four more years. That’s my goal, to sign another two-year contract. After that, I’ll evaluate where I am and how I feel,” Nash said. “I know I feel great right now and I think I have a lot left.” (East Valley Tribune, October 5th, 2008)

Our Very Quick Analysis: So Nash will cash his 401K and retire in July of 2012. One question remains: where will he finish his career?

The tiny table-setter has two seasons left on his current contract with Phoenix and wants to play two additional seasons. He could re-up with the Suns in 2010 or head elsewhere as an unrestricted free agent.

Toronto, because Nash hails from Canada, is an option. Home sweet home, right? Of course, Chris Bosh and Jose Calderon will be around to keep the team competitive. Former Suns’ GM and friend Bryan Colangelo will be pulling the front office strings. 

However, New York –as Michael Grange of the Globe and Mail mentions- is a better fit. Mentor Mike D’Antoni should still be running the sideline. The likable coach and his one-time understudy have an established trust from their ‘Seven Seconds To Shoot’ days.

The Big Apple has also been Nash’s off-season home. He plays pick-up ‘footie’ against the MLS’ Red Bulls and drops Nike training commercials in Manhattan. New York is also perfect for him to transition into his next career making films. 

There is a 6-8, 240 pound wildcard. The Knicks will surely chase LeBron James when he hits free agency in July 2010. Such a talent could draw Nash to New York. The forward will demand, and get, a ‘max-plus’ contract with all the kickers, which could limit available salary for co-stars like Nash. 

If Nash were to leave the Suns in two seasons, watch the Knicks. With or without James, it makes as much sense as coming ’home’ to the Raptors.

Is Nash to the NYC a possibility? How about Toronto? Or will he stay in Phoenix? Get at us in the comment box below with thoughts and return to HoopsVibe The Blog with thoughts. Photo courtesy of skewb. 

Each week, HoopsVibe the Blog will drop a player comparison for fans to weigh-in on. We call it head-to-head ...

Two centers. Each is young, raw, and recovering from injury. And each is in high-pressure situations, facing expectations bigger than Jerome James and Oliver Miller.

After all, Andrew Bynum only has to play seamlessly next to All-Star Pau Gasol, anchor Los Angeles’ interior defense, and, most importantly, put the Lakers over the top in their quest for an NBA Title.

Meanwhile, Greg Oden only has to shrug off microfracture surgery, play like the second coming of Bill Russell, and help Portland secure a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference.

Back-to-the-basket posts are rare. And when those ‘legit’ posts are physically gifted (like Bynum and Oden) hoop heads demand 20 point, 12 rebound averages.

Fitting in isn’t an option. These two must excel.

In our first head-to-head feature, HoopsVibe readers must pick the NBA’s best up-and-coming five-man. So, Bynum or Oden? Read both arguments, form an opinion, and get at us in the comment box below. We’ll tally votes and publish results next week.

The Argument For Bynum:

• Last year, he gave us a taste. What a taste it was. Those 35 games were enough for many to dub him the NBA’s next star big. Bynum, in just his third NBA season after high school, averaged 13.5 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks. 

• You can’t teach size, and wingspan. You either have it or don’t. Bynum’s frame, 7-0 and 285 pounds, makes him an above average defender. The young pro also has exceptionally long arms for his giant stature, which allows him to rebound, challenge shots, help teammates, and eventually anchor a defense.

• Bynum can score 15-20 points without having a single set called for him. He gets points through put-backs, tips, and dunks. This is a luxury, considering L.A. has several players who need touches and looks.

• Bynum has the right mix of fire and composure. As a rookie, he jousted with Shaq. A year later, he remained calm following Bryant’s infamous cell phone video. He just worked harder and improved.
  

The Argument For Oden: 

• The first overall pick in 2007 has only played in summer league and one exhibition game. It doesn’t matter. Oden is still a can’t-miss prospect and is favoured to win rookie of the year. 

• Oden is a manchild. His size, strength, and quickness will be felt on defense, where he’ll make The Rose Garden tough for visitors. Blazer fans should expect a minimum of 10 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. 

• Like Bynum, Oden will have average double-figures. And like Bynum his points will come through rebounds, jams, and put-backs. For instance, in his first exhibition game, he had several dunks in just 20 minutes of work. 

• Oden is a low-maintenance star. He stayed focused through rehab and still entertained with personable interviews and videos. Nothing beats his Robin Leach tour of the pre-NBA pad.

Our head-to-head call: Right now, Bynum is slightly ahead only because he’s older and has pro experience. Nothing else. Each is somewhat unrefined. Each has much to prove. In time, they’ll both dominate and make old school fives fashionable again.

Who is the NBA’s best young five-man? Bynum or Oden? Get at us in the comment box below and return to HoopsVibe’s NBA Blog for more tidbits. Photo courtesy of NickSixers.

He arrived in Sacramento a fresh-faced ‘Euro’ and left an established NBA star. I always loved his movement away from the ball, using screens to set-up a catch and shoot corner three-pointer or back door basket.

Peja Stojakovic, now ten seasons deep and on his third team, could be the key to New Orleans winning the Western Conference and wrestling the Lawrence O’Brien championship trophy away from Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett. 

Offering such a concept twelve months ago would’ve landed you an appointment with Dr. Phil. Not now, though. The Hornets nearly secured first seed in the Western Conference during the regular season, pushed San Antonio to seven games in the second round of the playoffs, and signed free agent prize James Posey this summer. 

They are for real. 

Winning an NBA Title depends on Stojakovic. New Orleans already boasts a terrifying one-two punch in table-setter Chris Paul and post David West. But the Serbian born wing must rediscover his 2003-2004 form, when he averaged 24 points and an impressive six rebounds and five assists (last season, he posted 16 points, 4 rebounds, and three assists).

Back then being active was the key. Stojakovic, as demonstrated by his six-board average five years ago, hit the glass. He also used his considerable basketball IQ to find his King teammates, dropping impressive dime totals most nights.

In fairness, rebounds and assists decrease when a player isn’t healthy. Stojakovic is now free from years of back pains and must become more than a shooter. The Hornets, behind Paul’s playmaking, like to run. The former All-Star needs to grab more defensive rebounds, fill the lane on the break, and sink transition lay-ups or jumpers. 

Then there is defense. New Orleans’ pre-season run on NBATV showed that getting-stops would be a priority. Stojakovic, while solid, has never been a star in his own end. In key moments, Coach Byron Scott could play stoppers Morrison Peterson and Posey instead of Stojakovic. 

Of course, Scott understands the gunner mindset. Last year’s coach of the year was the ultimate streak shooter during his own playing days, so he’ll likely support Stojakovic.

The Hornets can take the next step. But Stojakovic must recapture his Sacramento form to help New Orleans forward. 

How will New Orleans do next year? How important is Stojakovic? Get at us in the comment box below with thoughts and return to HoopsVibe The Blog for NBA Tidbits. Photo courtesy of BigHan.

Every week, HoopsVibe The Blog will drop a basketball related list for fans to debate. We call it ‘Listed’ …

The NBA is a want, not a need. David Stern’s league relies on individuals and businesses spending discretionary income on tickets, parking, jerseys, and anything else with ‘The Logo’ brand.

So what happens when there is little discretionary income? Even worse, what happens when there is no discretionary income? We could soon find out. The American economy is currently in a worse state than Yonkers rapper DMX (I liked X’s early stuff, but right now it’s dark and hell is hot).

Stocks are crashing. Real estate is a mess. And Democrats and Republicans wasted days disagreeing on a bailout. The NBA is in no way immune. League revenues could stagnate or decline, which means the salary-cap declines. Several markets could feel the sting in their bottom line.

In this edition of ‘Listed’, HoopsVibe The Blog examines five teams who could be hampered by the economic downturn. As always, get at us in the comment box below with thoughts.

Charlotte Bobcats:

Problems: Charlotte is a banking hub for America, with several institutions having head offices in the expanding city. If banks are in trouble, or reducing spending, then corporate sponsorships fall. Worst of all, the NBA has failed miserably to reconnect with the community since returning to Charlotte.

Saving Grace: North Carolina is a basketball hotbed. Years ago, in their Hornet days, Charlotte led the league in attendance. They also have some young pieces and a great teacher (when not eyeing his next gig) in Larry Brown, so a renaissance is possible.

Detroit Pistons:

Problems: For years, Michigan has been in recession. And with new car sales hitting record lows, Detroit and the big automakers will again get hammered –and hard. Eventually, the city’s four professional teams will feel the pinch, including the Pistons.

Saving Grace: Joe Dumars has assembled a competitive and economically efficient team. Detroit never overpays players. And the gentleman paying those players, William Davidson, is a class act with deep pockets.

New Orleans Hornets:

Problems: ‘The Big Easy’ was never a rich city. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina decimated the state and government relief has been disappointing. Regrettably, people and businesses have been slow to return full-time. And tourism dollars typically decline in a recession. Also, New Orleans’ owner George Shinn has a dubious reputation from his days in Charlotte, too. 

Saving Grace: There are three positives in Louisiana. First, despite a struggling economy, New Orleans is resilient and supports their teams. Second, Chris Paul will keep them on top of the Western Conference. Third, David Stern and the NBA publicly committed to supporting the Hornets.

New Jersey Nets:

Problems: What happened to Brooklyn? Their move has once again been delayed and the club languishes as a lame duck in Jersey. Owner Bruce Ratner is heavily tied to real estate development and could get exposed in a downturn.

Saving Grace: The Nets are capable of pushing for the playoffs. But their true saviour plays in Cleveland, is two seasons away from unrestricted free agency, and there is little, if no, guarantee he comes.  

Memphis Grizzlies:

Problems: The honeymoon is over. After some early success, Memphis has lost interest in the NBA. Attendance is down; owner Michael Heisley wants to sell, but can’t find a buyer.

Saving Grace: Simply put, Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo.

Which NBA city struggles most with the pending economic downturn? Will it impact you buying tickets? Get at us in the comment box below and come back to HoopsVibe The Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of Detroit Derek. 

• You may have caught NBATV’s training camp preview. Jeff, of Celticsblog, breaks down the world champs’ televised practice. I also saw Boston’s pre-season run at Rhode Island. Keep an eye on Tony Allen this season.  

• He tears up The Jim Rome show. He coaches. And he blogs. Eric Musselman has details on Baron Davis becoming the Clippers’ leader. 

• Matt of Detroit Bad Boys has info on Amir Johnson starting at the five-spot for the pre-season. I like this move. Johnson provides energy, while ’vet’ Antonio McDyess and Rodney Stuckey give the Pistons a pick-and-roll combo off the bench.

• He was ’The Man’ in Europe. And now he is slept-on in Toronto. Scott with RaptorsBlog has a profile on the steady Anthony Parker. I love his game. Parker does most things well: defend, shoot, score, and lead. A must-have glue guy.
  

• The Score’s Branded has Questlove and Andre Iguodala filming the Nike Innovator series. After all, innovating is What They Do (a perfect segway to this classic). 
  

• WarriorsWorld.com describes the uncertain mood at Golden State’s media day. The scribes, like the general public, have no clue on this team. Their best player, Monta Ellis, injured himself on a moped and lied about it. Management and ownership can’t agree on his punishment. And nobody knows how long is he out. Still, never count out a Don Nelson squad.

•  Ball Don’t Lie’s Kelly Dwyer runs through the best Laker blogs. Of course, there is a retro pic of the purple-and-gold with a former President.

• I originally found this on Henry Abbott’s truehoop blog. Supersonic Soul has a great piece questioning why taxpayers subsidize stadiums. If stadiums are such great deals for you and me, why don’t more owners -like Clay Bennett and Aubrey McClendon- at least partner up with us and contribute.

• Still with Clay Bennett ... collateral damage from Seattle moving to Oklahoma City. The Warriors had to fire their mascot Thunder because it/he/she clashed with OKC’s nickname. Bottom line, no more of this (Thunder does his thing at 1:04 and is followed by some entertainment).

• The Hoop Doctors talk J-Williams. Myself, I loved White Chocolate’s flash. Hopefully, fans also recognize his high assist-to-turnover ratio and work as the starting point guard on the 2006 World Champion Miami Heat, too. 

• Lots of great stuff from the HoopsVibe family. So lets get it going:

• My man Chase has an excellent piece on the NBA expanding instant replay. Great stuff from the Southern Maine alum. Look out for his work.

• He is bold. He is brash. He speaks his mind. I love it. John Nguyen’s latest looks at the Ben Gordon saga. ’JN’ also provides some interesting facts on Chicago owner Jerry Reinsdorf (took me back to Sam Smith’s Jordan Rules). Bookmark Flagrant Foul and check-in regularly. One more thing: his blog, his choice not to put up a picture.

• Who knew one simple WNBA update could cause such a stir? Well, our own Chris Sells caused it with this. For more of Sells’ superb work check out Overdribbling.

• Clearly, the newest edition to the HoopsVibe team isn’t some green rookie. One article, one smash for Joseph’s The Sixth Man blog. Hit up his in-depth look at the New Jersey Nets. I love a Brooks Lopez, Shawn Williams, and Yi front-court.

• Of course, CYE always holds things down. There’s Trash Talk, where Amare’s choice in eyewear is debated (my bad on leaving out the accent). He also has the 411 on sneakers, too. So get at all his work.

• If you like other sports, our extended family Crave has you covered. By the way, where is HV’s All-Access passes to the Hugh Hefner party? We wouldn’t pull a Pauley Shore. Really! 
  

NBA news mixed with analysis …

Their News: “An NBA GM said the Heat are still interested in trading forward Shawn Marion for "a great piece that could improve their team," since they are probably not interested in giving him a lucrative long-term contract. For the time being, you can forget talk of Miami dealing Marion for Chicago’s Ben Gordon and Andres Nocioni. Gordon signed a one-year, $6.4 million qualifying offer with Chicago last week that will make him ineligible to be traded until Jan. 2, and he has a no-trade clause.” (Boston Globe)

Our Quick Analysis: Flipping is a popular business practice. It’s simple. You acquire an asset for cheap. Then sell the asset for more than you paid.

Miami is still trying to flip Shawn Marion. They have been since acquiring him last winter in a trade with Phoenix for the under-performing Shaquille O’Neal.

Unfortunately, the Heat killed the trade market for Marion. Miami wouldn’t give Marion, a free agent in July 2009, a big-money extension, so why would another team? And Miami never committed to building around Marion, so why would another team give up significant talent in a trade?

Talk about warning signs. Top suit Pat Riley won’t get anything close to equal value in a trade.

The oil-slick should now let Marion play out the 2008-09 season. They’ll get 17 million dollars in cap relief and have just 49 million dollars in committed salary for 2009-10. Miami could then pursue next summer’s free agents. South Beach is enticing. Superstar Dwyane Wade wants to re-sign. And the club would have money to burn.

The top available talent would listen. Carlos Boozer, if he opts-out early, would consider any offer from the Heat. Ditto for Ron Artest, Allen Iverson, Jason Kidd, and Rasheed Wallace.

So instead of receiving a hodgepodge of assets in an awkward mid-season trade, the club picks Wade’s future co-star(s) in free agency. They don’t take on Ben Gordon or Andres Nocioni.

Flipping is always an option. But Miami should let Marion’s deal expire and make their play next off-season.

Flip or wait? What would you do with Marion? Get at us in the comment box below and return to HoopsVibe The Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of remolacha.net fotos.