Parker Signs Extension

[sutrick]

I can't say for sure that the Spurs had better options at SF but I won't accept that RJ is an answer. Your absolutely correct teams can overpay for players but I don't think the two examples are the best ( although both way overpaid) because I don't think anyone would have come close to paying JJ what Atlanta did to keep him. Rashard at least switched teams but he was a much younger player than Parker. But to your point, Orlando overpaid and it really doesn't matter if the reason makes sense.

[TAI8]

Jefferson's a good player. He can slash, knock down shots, and create plays for others. Our offense was noticeably better last season and we just poured in 120+ in the opener when we scored that much just thrice all of last season. We brought in RJ to help our declining offense and he has done just that. However, our defense suffered as a result (losing Bowen, Kurt Thomas, Oberto). We are hoping Splitter can help us get our defense back on track.

[co_laper]

Difference is, it wasn't wrong doing in the Spurs part of Jefferon's part. Jefferson was a Spur. He wasn't another team's. We had the right to discuss a deal with him. Even RJ mention something like this where he might opt out and look for a longer contract and consider it like getting an extension after that 15 mil. It was on the first article that came out when Jefferson was just pondering it. I'm sure the talks already begin there and that's why he came out and say he's pondering it.

[sutrick]

I'm not sure that the Spurs were OK telling Jefferson they would sign him long term if he opted out just because he was with the Spurs. I think the Timberwolves problem where they lost multiple draft picks was with Joe Smith who was also with them.

[co_laper]

It isn't the same. Joe Smith played for 3 seasons on a very small contract with an under the table agreement that he'll get a payday once the Wolves acquire his bird rights (3 years with same team). That's not even close to what we're doing with Jefferson.