elindholm said:
We still have a theoretical chance to sign Payton.
The latest I read is that it's more than a theoretical chance. He wants to return to Boston, but Boston isn't all that interested. That basically leaves Miami and Phoenix as the front runners.
where did you read that? i thought that Payton and the Celts were in talks of an extention before he got traded. that's quite a 180 degree turn on the guy.
i personally would love to have him here. but one of his criteria might be the assurance of being resigned....which would leave us out of the picture.
the one thing that i think would keep him from accepting a backup role wouldnt be the respect thing, but the money thing. being sent to the bench as a backup does diminish a players value somewhat...and if Payton is looking to start for some team next season he could be losing out on $1 or $2 million dollars. that's something to think about.
if its between us and Miami....each team has its own strengths. in Miami, he'd have his buddy Shaq. he may or may not start there either. additionally, Miami would have to release ANOTHER player in order to sign him. remember, they had to drop Person in order to get Zo. so they may be off the list.
we on the other hand have amare, who could be Payton's Kemp for the rest of the year. he's also near home (which i dont think is that much of a factor concidering its only for 2 or 3 months). he'd also take on a sort of leadership role with the team because of our lack of age, and his experience.