Man With A Plan - Thursday, May 08, 2008
153 Views :: 0 Comments ::  :: Michael Bradley The upshot of yesterday's conference call between reporters and Sixers GM Ed Stefanski was that much work lies ahead. While still in his first year steering the Sixer ship, Stefanski is no rube when it comes to the ways of NBA contention. He knows what we all do: Philadelphia needs a power forward who can command a double team and a better shooter at the two spot. Duh. The most curious by-product of the call was Stefanski's tepid devotion to forward Andre Iguodala, who turned down a five-year $57 million offer last fall, figuring he would be worth more after this season. Now a restricted free agent, a condition which allows the Sixers to match any offer tendered by another team, Iguodala could re-sign with the home team for an extended period or simply play out the '08-09 season and then escape into the free-agent waters. It is, of course, in Iguodala's best interest to work out a deal now. That way, he won't have to worry about playing a campaign under the threat of a mid-season trade and then a move to another team once he's out in the open market. Unless said player is a big-time star, that doesn't always work out well, because it's tough to have a great season on the move like that. So, A.I. would love to sign. Stefanski sounds like he wants to accommodate him. But he said some things that indicated he understands the forward's limitations. He said he wasn't sure whether he'll be a number one option -- and worthy of a number one option's paycheck. He said he had hopes of signing Iguodala but that "negotiations are negotiations." In other words, if Iguodala's agent, Rob Pelinka, decides to ask for $75 mil over five years, the Sixers will begin looking immediately for a sign-and-trade partner. Good move, Ed. There are other things to worry about, like what to do with Andre Miller after next year and if Lou Williams can ever be a starer. A big man must be found. Growth must continue. Etc. Etc. Nothing can be done, however, until the Iguodala situation is resolved. For the first time, Stefanski has spoken honestly on the situation, and I like what I hear. He has a realistic opinion of Iguodala's value and no desire to ruin the team's salary structure to keep him around. The Sixers may have been exposed by the Pistons as a team long way from real NBA contention, but their GM is showing he knows what it takes to build a team. He still has to find and land the players, but he is clearly aware of what's necessary down the road. The Sixers have to get better, and Stefanski is the perfect man to make it happen. Over the next two-and-a-half months, we'll see what he can do. Chances are, you'll like it. |