I don't think the Chron would write out a full article if this trade wasn't almost guaranteed to go down pending Donte Greene becoming available. Both sides probably won't comment until then. Artest will be an expiring contract and all signs indicate he would be happy to continue playing for Adelman, even if he is a 3rd option. He still gets his share of plays each night in an offense he is comfortable in. His mentality and man-on-man perimeter defense are 2 attributes VITAL for this team to get past the 1st round. What kind of a contract extension do you expect he will ask for? What does he deserve?
He will ask for as much money as possible. More than his current salary of 7+ million a year. Which he would be worth, if he wasn't so unpredictable. This is my main concern with this trade. On the other hand, if he does blowup this season he wouldn't be our problem the next one. Still excited though!
So is a long term deal in the works? I sure hope so! We need to lock him up as long as we can! He still is a little nuts!
You guys with this instant ring crap and Celtic comparisons are waaaaaaaayyyyy off base. How about just hoping for some health and a 2nd round appearance?
I meant not paying him max/an absurd amount of money, which is what the OP was suggesting. I'm sorry if I wasn't clear. I'm not expecting us to get the championship ring right away, but certainly if Artest self-destructs during the season or we fail to get out of the first round again, I don't think it's unfair to say that I wouldn't be willing to lock him to a long term or lucrative contract.
I remember T-Mac signing a 3 year extension when we traded for him. Is there any way to sign Artest to an extension right now?
I think Artest already has a Chinese shoe deal if I'm not mistaken? If he does, it'll make his current shoe deal even BETTER
