Offering the 3-year max isn't a "compromise." It's the first Blazer offer, which means it's their low offer. It's more of a good faith offer than anything, and both Olshey and LMA know it. Has anybody else here negotiated contracts in their life?
Hey if we can get LA for 3 years 55 million that would be worth it. Won't happen but it would be a good deal for the team.
The extension wasn't offered last year after his exit interview, when we actually had the cap space to do it. Now, to do it, we'd need to renounce the MLE and BAE and get only the room exception to upgrade the bench. And yes, personally, I'd trade him if he doesn't sign the 3-yr max, whether you think that's idiotic or not. But personally, I don't like having any chance that he walks for nothing next year, especially with some of his past comments. I know that differs with many in here, and I know that he's said different (and complimentary) things since this season turned out so well. Maxing him out until he's 32, then seeing what happens, seems a lot less risk than paying him a blind 23-26M when he's 34.
Brian's negotiation seems hilarious to me. Olshey: We're offering you the 3-year max right now. LMA: Cool! I think I'll wait for more years and money, though. Olshey: Hold on now. This is a compromise, and we won't be offering you a contract after next season. We could offer you nothing at all, so don't you like our compromise? LMA: Trade me now before camp, since you're not offering me a contract after next season.
It's not negotiation. It's about money, or it's about his ability to walk for nothing if he wants to--and I fully admit he's earned that right. But there's no way I leave even a remote chance that an all-star walks for nothing. We have different risk tolerances.
I seriously doubt any team in China would honor that agreement if they could get such a high profile player.
Brian's right. Kudos to the Blazers for showing loyalty to LMA by making the best offer they can at this point. Hopefully he and the team can agree to have him re-sign as a FA or take the deal.
It's not a matter of IF PapaG will come into a LMA thread and freak out on people, it's a matter of WHEN.
I don't think this news brings any particular risk to PapaG's undies....but some of the comments being posted here may cause him to have to throw another pair out. Be nice guys!
