Khem Birch and Amile Jefferson now restricted free agents

[Skybox]

If Mozgov is healthy, Orlando can no longer afford Birch.

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I've asked a few times and nobody addressed...is Mozgov unable to play or just held out of the rotation? 3rd string C already on the books would be better than having 4 again (I like Birch but...)

[PrimeThyme]

So long, Khem

[drsd]

I've asked a few times and nobody addressed...is Mozgov unable to play or just held out of the rotation? 3rd string C already on the books would be better than having 4 again (I like Birch but...)

Mozgov had an arthroscopic procedure on his knee. This sidelined him for the year. One can reasonably expect a 5/4 stat line next year in 15 mpg.

As that is exactly what Birch provides, I do see these two as interchangeable. (And I really do not see why many here want to stretch Mozgov; playing him out and stretching Fournier next year makes a great deal more sense, as also Augustin come off of the books. Those three can free up a 35M slot next year).

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[OrlandO]

If Mozgov is healthy, Orlando can no longer afford Birch.

..

I've asked a few times and nobody addressed...is Mozgov unable to play or just held out of the rotation? 3rd string C already on the books would be better than having 4 again (I like Birch but...)

He had arthroscopic knee surgery in january, so was unable to play most of last season as he was recovering from that. But late in the season he was traveling with the team again and on video taking threes, so unless he has a setback with his knee I assume he could play next season if needed.

[MoMM]

Since we might have Mozgov back and we already have Bamba, I'd try to SnT Birch for a 2nd round pick if we keep Bamba.

As for stretching Fournier next season, I don't know, but I have a feeling that he won't pick up his option and will try to sign another long-term deal.