As the dust begins to somewhat settle, it has definitely been one of those summers again for the NBA and its players.
From rumors of trades to summer league surprises it has been quite interesting -- to the point where players find themselves in new surroundings and others are still waiting to be added to someone's roster. Players and organizations are feeling the crunch of the economy as teams are less willing to shell out dollars this season.
With the economy the way it is and last season's numbers down as a whole it has somewhat paralyzed teams in negotiating contract offers for unrestricted free agents. The leverage a player once had in previous summers is no longer there.
If a team makes an offer, I suggest you take the offer!
Iverson biggest name in limbo
Free agents in this position are now in limbo as they wait to hear their name called. The most noticeable name out there right now is the talented Allen Iverson, a solid player and veteran who's had a great career but has bounced from team to team within the past two seasons.
A few teams are approaching with caution as they wheel and deal and decide whether they want to take a chance and add him to the mix. A couple of seasons ago, if he was in this same position, he'd be able to join a new team in a heartbeat.
Now, teams are doing "makeovers" and basically trying to get players who cost less but are effective. Veterans who are unrestricted are helpless as they may have to take a cut in salary because of cap issues and luxury tax.
Pacers have made significant strides
In trying to keep up with other teams, your new-look Pacers have made significant strides to improve themselves and contend with the other Eastern teams.
Adding much-needed defense (Dahntay Jones) and stabilizing the backcourt with a savvy veteran free agent (Earl Watson), the Pacers are putting pieces together to help All-Star Danny Granger fend off the competition.
With Tyler Hansbrough's strong intro in the summer league and the improvement of Roy Hibbert and Brandon Rush, the rest of the supporting cast looks to improve in the division and conference.
Though disappointed at not making the playoffs last year, the Pacers are now trying to be in the mix in the postseason. In the meantime, while teams jockey for position, I'm sure there will be more wheeling and dealing and maybe some trades before opening day.
Props to former Pacers
Free agency isn't what it used to be but as camp approaches I'm sure you will see names and faces in different places.
As a postscript, here's wishing former Pacers Jarrett Jack, Maceo Baston and Marquis Daniels all the best!
Thank you for your on- and off-court performance and maintaining a consistency of professionalism. Your hard work and positive attitude didn't go unnoticed. Big props! Will miss you guys.
And, as always, be Smoov.
