Pistons avoid landmine

Carlos Boozer decided not to opt out of his contract. In December, Boozer said, "I'm opting out. No matter what, I'm going to get a raise regardless." I suppose he realized that $12.7million/year ain't such a bad salary after all. I have a feeling that Boozer's cash-grab instincts would not go over too well in Detroit.

Sure, people understand the allure of money, but fans want at least a small sense of team loyalty. Boozer has a history of bolting teams at the first chance of a raise. He left Duke after his sophomore season -- to be a 2nd round pick. He bolted Lebron James and the budding Cleveland Cavaliers for more cash at Utah. And then, of course, his comments last December.

I, for one, am happy he's staying in Utah. It gives the Pistons the chance to push for Millsap. Utah will have to pay the luxury tax to keep Boozer, Okur, and Millsap, and, as of today, it looks like they're willing to do that. They may change their mind if the the Millsap contract offer is too pricey.

Other Free Agents
The local news believes that Ben Gordon is the primary target. I just don't get it. I like Gordon as a player, but he plays the same position as Rip. The Pistons need help inside. Overpaying for Ben Gordon does little to help the team in the long run. Joe D should be focusing his efforts specifically on big men - notably Villanueva, who has no shortage of critics in Detroit. Shortly after the news of his availability hit the press, Mike Valenti and Terry Foster ripped into this guy. What's not to like? He's a 6'11 power forward who can put up 20 per game? He's young and would probably only cost $8million/year.

Phoenix is also looking to unload Amare Stoudamire. Now, that guy would make a difference. Imagine how much better Stuckey would be if he had a big man the calibre of Stoudamire? Neither Villanueva or Stoudamire are known for defense, but Joe could complement one of those guys with a defensive specialist. Perhaps that could be Brandon Bass from Dallas. Bass was a bench player, but he has the athleticism to really shine as a starter. Now that I think of it... Bass should be their #1 target! They could get him for cheap, and he could have an instant impact and would fit well into the Pistons (pre-2008) culture. ESPN says "Bass is a physical player who can get up and down the floor. He is too quick for most 4s to handle..." Sounds like a perfect fit.