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What the Buck: Milwaukee gives Andrew Bogut $72 million, passes on Emeka OkaforJuly 10 08  Averaging 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists on a 26-56 team is worth between 60 and 72 million dollars over five years. Yes, the NBA is a good gig if you can get it. Case in point: Andrew Bogut. Yesterday, the Milwaukee Bucks signed their Aussie centre to the above extension, even though he’s produced inconsistent numbers for a mostly underachieving organization. My opinion isn’t personal. I like Bogut; he’s a good, complementary piece. He also speaks his mind, talks regularly of pounding cold Fosters, and passes well out of the post. Problem is these traits, while noble, can’t mask that Bogut would make a better bar buddy than franchise centre. Face it; the man from down-under is a solid five-man, but unworthy of superstar or even star money. What has he won during his first few seasons? Bogut’s contract highlights a bigger issue. The Bucks still haven’t learned from the inflated contracts of the Larry Harris era. Last spring, Milwaukee fired Harris for overpaying players. Their long-time executive was known for going Enron on folks, handing journeymen like Bobby Simmons starter money and giving star Michael Redd superstar money. Clearly, the new front office hasn’t learned. Bogut was extended despite having a year remaining on his rookie contract. Why couldn’t new GM John Hammond have taken his time and negotiated? Newly acquired Richard Jefferson and freshly signed sideline boss Scott Skiles emphasize defense, so restricted free agent Emeka Okafor might have been a better, and cheaper, fit than Bogut. Reports have Charlotte open to a sign-and-trade. The Bucks could rebound from last year to make the playoffs. And Bogut’s future play could justify the extension. Of course, they could’ve waited, too. Is Bogut worth between 60 and 72 million dollars? Would Emeka Okafor have been a better option? Get at us in the comment box below and come back to HoopsVibe The Blog for more NBA info. Image courtesy of photographer compujamery’s on-line portfolio. |
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