Thursday, November 1, 2007

Let Iguodala prove his worth

If there is any gnashing of teeth today because the Sixers didn't extend Andre Iguodala, it needs to stop. It was the right thing to do. Iguodala had a nice close to last season, but it wasn't enough over a long enough period of time to warrant a long-term, huge money deal.

While neither side has given any hint of the kind of money being sought or offered, you can look at the 5-year, $55 million Sacramento gave Kevin Martin as a starting point.

Don't get me wrong -- Iguodala's a valuable part of the franchise, but if there's anything the Sixers have been accused of doing in the past decade it's overpaying for players on the basis of short-term success. Exhibit 1: Samuel Dalembert. Afraid of getting into a bidding war with Atlanta, Billy King anted up big money based on one good playoff series.

The Sixers are finally set to get some cap room. They shouldn't pony up for Iguodala until he proves he's worth the big bucks. If he has a superstar-like season, if he lifts his game into the upper echelon, then he'll deserve a huge contract. But if he settles in at last year's level or falls off, then his value is somewhat less and should be reflected in any deal.

Chances are there won't be a bidding war for Iguodala, and if there is the Sixers have the right to match. But let Iguodala set his own market value. And if you're going to buy the argument that he'll hold back because the specter of injury is hanging over him, well, not to be cold, but injury can happen any time in the NBA. If he's injured this year, then at least the Sixers aren't on the hook for years and years. And speaking of injury, what about that nagging back problem he had at the end of last season. I'd like to see if that puts in another appearance because back problems can be chronic, long-term things. Just look at Tracy McGrady.

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