nbrans said:
I think it all depends on how much. If his deal starts $6 million or lower, great. That will put the Kings low enough under the luxury tax threshold to also possibly use the MLE on a big or a backup point guard. Awesome, re-sign Bonzi. $7-$8 million I'd probably swallow the bitter pill, but I'd also listen to S&T offers and would make a major push for someone like Nene.
Over $8 million? Barring a S&T, I think I'd let him walk. Yes, it's a talent drain, it doesn't send the right message, it's a step backward etc. etc. etc. But is a 12/5/2 guy really worth $8 million a year? Even one who has proven he can step up in the playoffs? I think that over that $8 million mark it becomes a major risk. You have a 30 year old and counting perpetual malcontent (except this year) who would not have a very attractive deal to trade partners. You have more than half of your cap tied up by three guys (Bibby, Miller and Bonzi) who aren't getting any younger or any better.
And the X factor is Kevin Martin. Who knows what the Kings have in him? They could have a 10 point guy or they could have a 20 point guy. Who knows. But at the very least he's proven he can be a starter in the league and he's making $1 million the next two years. If the Kings can address their pressing concerns (post, backup PG) by letting Bonzi walk or using him in a S&T Kevin Martin makes it a less horrifying situation.
Over $8 million? Barring a S&T, I think I'd let him walk. Yes, it's a talent drain, it doesn't send the right message, it's a step backward etc. etc. etc. But is a 12/5/2 guy really worth $8 million a year? Even one who has proven he can step up in the playoffs? I think that over that $8 million mark it becomes a major risk. You have a 30 year old and counting perpetual malcontent (except this year) who would not have a very attractive deal to trade partners. You have more than half of your cap tied up by three guys (Bibby, Miller and Bonzi) who aren't getting any younger or any better.
And the X factor is Kevin Martin. Who knows what the Kings have in him? They could have a 10 point guy or they could have a 20 point guy. Who knows. But at the very least he's proven he can be a starter in the league and he's making $1 million the next two years. If the Kings can address their pressing concerns (post, backup PG) by letting Bonzi walk or using him in a S&T Kevin Martin makes it a less horrifying situation.