RealGM

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:26 am**

It's Official: Arenas Will Test Market

Gilbert Arenas said he opted out of the final year of his contract with the Washington Wizards by filing the necessary paperwork with the league office Friday. The move makes Arenas, who was scheduled to earn $12.8 million next season, an unrestricted free agent.

Teams will be able to negotiate with free agents July 1.

Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld has repeatedly stated that the team plans to re-sign Arenas and all-star forward Antawn Jamison, who will also be an unrestricted free agent.

Arenas has said that he will seek a maximum-level long-term contract, one that could cover up to six years and be worth more than $120 million. However, Arenas has also said that he would be willing to take less if it helps the team retain Jamison and make other moves to improve.

Link

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:27 am**

Stupid move. He's not gonna get that $120 mil contract coming off last season, in Washington, or anywhere else.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:30 am**

I don't know about the current cap space, but I'm guessing Arenas ends up in Washington..

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:31 am**

WHile i know he is going to get a lot, this season really hasn't raised his value. it has pretty much lowered. I mean he is coming off of some big time injuries, and i think shooting point guards are falling out of favor currently.

that being said, someone is probably gonna end up giving him the money he wants.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:35 am**

If Rashard Lewis can get a max contract Gilbert Arenas def deserves one.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:39 am**

obinna wrote:If Rashard Lewis can get a max contract Gilbert Arenas def deserves one.

If Rashad Lewis gets 100 million, Gilbert should get 200 million.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:40 am**

philly can get him and somewhat move him to the Sg spot.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:41 am**

a max contract for arenas all but guarantees mediocrity for washington.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:45 am**

Bulls give up Gordon, Hughes and Tyrus for Arenas.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 4:22 am**

JordansBulls wrote:Bulls give up Gordon, Hughes and Tyrus for Arenas.

Why the hell would they give up Thomas? I think people are sleeping on this guy big time.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 4:23 am**

He's staying in Washington, only if the "core" stays...

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 4:25 am**

He is going to sign for the MLE with the Lakers.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 4:26 am**

obinna wrote:-= original quote snipped =-

Why the hell would they give up Thomas? I think people are sleeping on this guy big time.

Exactly, the Bulls would be stupid if they trade Tyrus considering the fact that they traded Aldridge for him.

Posted: **Tue Jun 10, 2008 4:28 am**

obinna wrote:If Rashard Lewis can get a max contract Gilbert Arenas def deserves one.

Nah. The fact that Lewis lucked into a team willing to bid against themselves and wildly overpay for his services doesn't mean that Arenas deserves anything. He might get it, or more money than he's worth, but it doesn't really have anything to do with Rashard Lewis.

I have to say, it's weird timing. After that poor playoff showing, you have to figure he could have only lowered his value. But, to his credit, it is consistent with his much-criticized criticism of Deng, Okafor, etc. in that he is, by opting out for a new contract, seeking long-term financial security.