The Anderson Varejao Saga: Why Cleveland Cavaliers Will Match Charlotte Bobcats’ Offer Sheet
December 05 07
The Associated Press reports on Anderson Varejao’s status:
In need of a big man, the Charlotte Bobcats reached agreement Tuesday on a three-year offer sheet with Cleveland restricted free agent Anderson Varejao, giving the Cavaliers a week to match the deal or lose him.The deal is for the Bobcats’ midlevel salary cap exception, worth just over $17 million. Varejao could opt out of the deal after the second season and become an unrestricted free agent.
My Quick Take: Anderson Varejao’s future will finally be settled-thanks to the Charlotte Bobcats, of course.
On Tuesday, the Bobcats signed the Brazilian to a multi-year offer sheet for mid-level money. The Cavaliers now have seven days to match or they’ll lose Varejao without compensation.
Offer sheets, even to restricted free agents, are typically tendered over the summer. The timing of Charlotte’s offer is unusual, but their interest isn’t surprising when considering their play and circumstances.
Why Charlotte Extended An Offer:
- They’ve lost six consecutive games and management had to send a message. After all, the coaching staff is frustrated with players’ poor eating habits, late night excursions on the road, and unprofessional approach.
- Other than Emeka Okafor, the Bobcats lack size. Sean May is out with a microfracture tear, Primoz Brezec has struggled, and Jared Dudley isn’t ready for regular minutes.
- Charlotte’s front office expects Cleveland to match the offer. So why bother with an offersheet? The Cats have to engage local fans by making moves. Remember, North Carolina has been slow to embrace the return of NBA basketball. Offer sheets create headlines.
Why Cleveland Will Probably Match:
- The mid-level exception is fair money for Varejao. He rebounds, defends, blocks shots, and agitates opponents. And the Cavs have him at fair dollars for at least two seasons.
- The forward/center is a big part of the basketball renaissance taking place in Cleveland. Fans have forged an emotional connection to his wild hair and even wilder style of play.
- Ignore Varejao’s comments last week. On the whole, he enjoys a strong relationship with teammates and coaches, especially superstar LeBron James.
What do you think of Varejao’s offer sheet? Get at us in the comment box below with your thoughts.
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