Matrix news -

[JohnVancouver]

I don;'t think there's much action on the sthreads created when Shawn was traded so I'mpostign this in its own thread -

By BARRY JACKSON
bjackson@MiamiHerald.com

Shawn Marion played about as well as the Heat could have expected before his recent back spasms, but their relationship will be tested this summer.

Though Marion and agent Dan Fegan aren't ready to discuss their intentions, this much is clear: Marion would like to clarify his future this summer and is expected to ask the Heat for an extension beyond the remaining year on his contract. But it's difficult to envision the Heat making that commitment.

Marion likely will not opt out of his contract's final year (worth $17.4 million), because he won't get comparable money on the open market. If the Heat shows interest in an extension, opting out would allow him to re-sign for six years -- otherwise, an extension would be limited to three years (before June 30) or four (after June 30) under league rules. But that's highly unlikely.

The Heat privately has indicated a willingness to speak to Marion about a multiyear deal, but it would be surprising if it happens because Miami covets salary-cap space in 2009.

Elton Brand, whom the Heat tried to acquire in 2003, is among players with expiring contracts that summer. (The Clippers doubt he will exercise his opt-out this summer.)

Among others who could be free agents in summer 2009: Andre Miller, Carlos Boozer, Hedo Turkoglu and Lamar Odom.

Asked recently if the Heat would do anything to preclude having cap space in summer 2009 (barring Marion opting out this summer), Pat Riley said, ''No. I hope not. We definitely want to make sure we try to have a bite of the apple the year after next.'' Asked if that precludes an extension for Marion, Riley said, ``We haven't done a hypothetical on that yet.''

Fegan is a tough negotiator, so the notion of Marion taking a big pay cut as part of a multiyear extension is implausible.

The issue will be how Marion and Fegan respond if the Heat doesn't offer a lucrative extension. (He clearly wasn't happy in Phoenix about not getting a new deal.)

So even though the Heat values Marion and would keep him at the right price, a summer trade remains a possibility.

[albasuna]

I don't think Shawn can opt out. I doubt he makes 12 mil after this contract is up.

[chrice]

His only chance would be to build a time machine and to force a trade with Orlando, opt out next season, and then get Rashard's contract.

[Arles]

Book it, Shawn will get the MLE after the 2009 season.

[Mr. Sun]

I wouldn't be a bit surprised if somehow Marion ends back with the SUNS. Bet he misses D'Antoni's practices and Phx trainers.

[jcsunsfan]

Shawn probably needs to opt out. While he would be giving up money next year, it would only be for one year.

He will probably get a 5-6 year deal starting at 11 million or so. But if he waits a year AND PLAYS FOR MIAMI WHICH WILL BE HORRIBLE NEXT YEAR TOO, he will fall off the map, and get a much worse long term deal. My guess it might start 8 million for 4 years. In the end, he makes more money by opting out.