Because Vinny Del Negro is such an inexperienced coach, and because Derrick Rose is the NBA's blue-chip rookie, the Bulls must make a firm commitment to institute and develop continuity. That's why Deng should get the high-end deal that both he and the Bulls need.
Ben Gordon can only do one thing, score — but he does it well. Still, his utter lack of defense, a handle and a realistic appraisal of his strengths and weaknesses have severely eroded his usefulness with the Bulls. In truth, Gordon is best utilized as a sixth man, a function that he's always considered to be personally demeaning. If he does indeed come to accept his proper role, then the Bulls should certainly accede to his wishes and grant him long-term riches and security. If not, then a sign-and-trade deal would be best.
Although he lacks consistent 3-point range, Monta Ellis can score lots of points in a hurry. Indeed, the faster he plays the more he'll score.
Defense? Forget it.
Running an offense? Not him.
Yet, in the right environment, Ellis can be a team-changer. And Golden State just happens to fill the bill — simply because there's not much (half-court) offense to run, and because nobody else plays much defense either.
Given the continuance of Nellie-Ball, the Warriors would have been foolish to give Ellis the opportunity to become an unrestricted FA next year. That's why it's good they gave him a $66 million deal Thursday.
Even though his head isn't screwed on straight, J.R. Smith is one of the most dynamic shooters/scorers in the league. Since Allen Iverson's days are probably numbered in Denver, it's imperative for the Nuggets to open the vault and re-up Smith for the foreseeable future.
Right now, Louis Williams is the primary scorer with the Sixers' second unit — a job he's growing into with increasing effectiveness. Long term, Williams will most likely take over at the point-guard slot from Andre Miller — a job that will require another few years of intensive instruction and seasoning. In any case, keeping Williams for the duration is absolutely necessary if the reconstituted Sixers hope to challenge the Cavs and the Pistons for the runner-up spot behind Boston in the East.
