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>The scenario I laid out gives us a chance to compete at a >reasonable level next year, especially if Kobe comes back at >his projected pace anywhere near last years level, keeps us as >players in the FA market next summer, and gives us a long term >player.
Even if they were 100% this year, with Howard, they would not have been a true contender. They would have won the division most likely, certainly been a higher seed, but they didn't have enough. Now Nash is a year older, Pau is a year older, Kobe is hurt and D12 is gone. They could "compete" financially, making a lot more money with that group (but paying it out also), but not in a competitive sense.
There is no way Nash-Kobe-Pau gives you a chance at a title, and for a year of lucrative mediocrity you are sacrificing a chance to do things right for the long haul.
>I'd like to get this ball rolling ASAP but there are too many >assets around to go into a full blown rebuild.
Yeah but look at those "assets." Kobe played very well this year, but he's way up there with one year left. Give him the opportunity to make the most of it, also pocket some money. Nash and Gasol were hurt all season, they each have two years left at a maximum.
Their situation is a lot like the Cs. They have vets who have earned respect and still have something in the tank, but the writing is on the wall. The team needs to undergo a major overhaul and get younger. The longer you wait, the more opportunities you pass up and the less value those older guys have to other franchises.
>Pau could conceivably net some solid pieces and using the >amnesty on Kobe would free up cap room in addition to letting >Dwight walk, but more than a PR disaster, there's nobody to >sign this year because Paul has no incentive to come and >unless we make Monta and Josh Smith our priorities. That would >effectively mean we accept mediocrity for the next five years. >There are some big fish potentially swimming next year >though, and we're in prime position to make that move.
I see it differently, I see this year's cleanup as a way to get a good pick next year and also get the ball rolling on a rebuild in 2014. Youre right that there is no one to sign this year, but a blowup now ensures their paper is straight for 2014, lets them save some money (though that would be offset some by lower ticket gate), gives these veterans a fair shot to play out their career elsewhere and generally says "we are looking to build something great soon, come be a part of it." I think sticking with these guys is what would ensure prolonged mediocrity. They all wind up walking for nothing after 2-3 high priced, unsuccessful seasons together. By then, 2014 UFAs are all signed.
Now, that said, I am not a guy who talks up cap space or open market deals. I also dont think the Lakers have *all* the appeal some people seem to believe they do. However, they are not a franchise that is going to rebuild through the draft.
>It's all uncertain, but IMO that's the best overall scenario >with potential availability IMO.
It's a tough call. The Howard thing obviously determines the direction, he holds all the cards at this point.
And you will know MY JACKET IS GOLD when I lay my vengeance upon thee.
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