Manhattan Project wrote:I see this from every fan, yet I really have to question how true it is. When players have options on their contract in which they can opt out and leave the team. Case being you look at guys like Mike Bibby, Gilbert Arenas and Elton Brand for example. Do you think they would turn down the guaranteed money for a chance to win? As a player who has made millions of dollars already, is there a point in which you want to win? Or would you stay with a team that might not appreciate what you bring, like you or even play you?
I can't remember a single instance of a player opting out and leaving the money on the table to sign a far lesser contract with a contender. It seems like the only time a player will opt out is if he's virtually guaranteed to sign a longer and more lucrative contract. Even if Miami is the worst team in the L this year, no way Marion walks away from that money. Even when premiere players become UFA's we usually see them moved via S+T because the best teams don't have cap room.
I guess I could see a guy like Lebron signing a more team-friendly contract by taking less money to play with a superb supporting cast, but his NBA salary is minuscule compared to what his endorsements pay him.