I actually just had this conversation with my Pops a few minutes ago and told him the same thing, that Ron is basically auditioning for his next contract and who knows what we'll get next year when he gets it. I definately don't think that we need an "all-star" more than we just need good solid, high b-ball IQ type of guys. I don't think our offensive lapses would happen if we had a couple of more guys who just understand the game and understand ball and player movement more. As far as what type of player we need, the only 30 something type of player that I'd trade for is Rip Hamilton. He fits our needs perfectly. Hedo also has an ETO (early termination option) and will be looking to get paid, his Player option is 7.34 mil. I can see him looking for a contract starting out at about 9 or so. Either way, he's a much better fit than Ron Ron at the small forward spot. If neither one of those options are available, I'd be on the phone, begging Portland to do the Battier for Outlaw trade and just keep doing the youth movement. I think people should get over this whole "Win Now" thing and realize that we can be contenders for years to come if we keep accumulating these youngsters like we have been. Back to the subject, I'd actually low ball Artest with a contract starting out at 8.5 mil and going up to 10 in the 3rd year with a team option and see if he bites. Dude just hurts the offense too much. I love the toughness and all but geez.
Ron Artest in not a realiable 2nd option, he tries to do too much with nothing. He cant take his man off the dribble and thus has to shoot it. He is a good player and I would keep him just not as someone who can consistently be the 2nd option. Rox need to create miss matches and post him on smaller defenders that way he draws a double team and passes to an open player.
