The Pistons have been in contact with several free-agent swingmen around the league, and one name is particularly interesting.
Former Piston Carlos Delfino is among the free agents the team is considering signing. Tomorrow is the first day NBA free agents can sign contracts, although they can agree to deals earlier.
Delfino was obviously frustrated with his playing time with the Pistons, but it’s possible he’d give the organization a clean slate with a new coaching staff in place. He’s technically a restricted free agent but doesn’t seem to fit into Toronto’s plans, meaning there’s probably little risk in the Raptors matching any offers.
Would you welcome the Dolphin’s return? Long-time readers of this site will know that I’ve always liked his game and was sad to see him go, but at this point I’d have to imagine that settling for him means the team struck out on better options like James Jones, Mikael Pietrus, and CJ Miles, not to mention Corey Maggette.
(Thanks to DBB reader jpop for spotting this)
I thought he made some good progress while getting substnatial (if inconsistent) time for Toronto. He hit a lot of 3s and got a lot of steals. That’s admittedly from my NBA Fantasy perspective… didn’t watch him much otherwise. I think he’d be worth giving another chance to.
So what kind of cash would it take? What is his Toronto pay at?
I’d rather see his minutes go to Affalo, even though his shot still needs work. Delfino just never impressed me as a guy who was going all out as a Piston. From what I’ve heard from Curry and Dumars, high work ethic and energy are musts for next year’s team, so I don’t see him fitting. Then again, maybe he just didn’t work well with Flip and that killed his motivation. I still think it’s a mistake.
Delfino’s 2008 Toronto salary is: $1,868,141
so maybe 2mil to bring him in? How would you rank the SF FA prospects? I prefer to save cash.
1. CJ Miles / Delfino
2. James Jones
3. Pietrus
4. Maggette / Posey
This Jones wants 4 mill and Pietrus might get offered about the same. I still like the Maggette option a lot more if it leads to something else.
I like Afflalo too, but he and Sharpe as back-ups at 2 and 3 are a bit shaky. I think we need someone a bit proven that won’t demand big minutes and cash.
I’ll let my favourite Delfino highlight explain why I want him back: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_yGCHA8MJwY
Just looking at Jones v. Delfino—I would much rather have Delfino for a couple reasons.
While Jones appears to be a better shooter, and Delfino wasn’t particularly successful with limited minutes here before, Delfino went to the free throw line 60 or so more times than Jones. I personally think the Pistons really need guys who can create with the ball in their hands, and I am not entirely sold on Jones’ ability v. Delfino’s.
Neither to me are very exciting, but they are what they are—a backup wing.
Ooops, just realized that was based on 20 or so less games played by Jones.
OK–whoever is cheaper is fine by me.
My problem with Delfino — and this is just going on memory, not statistics or “actual data” — is that he gave up on his slashing-to-the-basket game way too easily. Like if he was blocked or just missed one shot on a drive, he would become a jump shooter for the rest of the game. Detroit does not need more jump shooters.
Toledo Joe:
That is a pretty good point, I loved when he slashed, but like you said it wasn’t consistent and he was not confident. Maybe his year with 23 minutes a game got him some confidence–who knows.
I’d prefer to see Afflalo get more minutes as the back up SG/SF personally. He played some pretty good defense on other teams top shooting guards and I’d like to see him get an opportunity to defend some SF’s as well. He’d be shorter then most SF’s, but he’s strong, doesn’t back down from anyone and none of the top SF’s in the East are great post up threats. If Rip is capable (and sometimes more successful then Tay) at guarding Pierce or Lebron, then why not Afflalo for short stretches of time?
But Joe D is doing the right thing and talking to lots of free agents because if a big trade goes down our roster could look much different.
I think Afflalo would be right there with Delfino as the back-up SG/SFs. They need both.
Jim, good point on Dumars touching base with a lot of free agents. You never know what positions could open up for us a month from now.
I don’t know about you guys, but i am eager to see if Brand signs with the Clips or not. More money and a better line-up might be waiting in Phili. The Clippers might get completely screwed if Brand leaves and Davis signs elsewhere. Of course they might prefer to let Davis go if Brand goes.
I don’t think Brand would leave if he gave his word to the Clippers, but they might be assuming too much if he didn’t.
Miller/Iguodala/Brand/Dalembert looks good.
With Young at 3, or signing a shooter at SG.
Louis Williams off the bench too.
wowzers
I thought this team established the uselessness of Carlos.
Carlos = FIBACLOWN.
He’s not quite as hot as Hermann but if Fabio goes, then yes, we should totally bring Delfino back.
@Sauce:
+1 (never heard the name FIBACLOWN before)
Sixers getting Brand = do not like.
I hope he stays with the Clips…
and we can likely close the books on Pietrus too.
J: In the end, I think Brand stays with the clips. He’s gotta make it look like there was nothing said between he and Davis. He seems like a stand up guy out here in SoCal, he’s publicly on the record that he opted out to give clips more money to sign a free agent and suggested Davis as the clips’ target in free agency. He’s gotten everything he’s asked for when he opted out. I think he does a great disservice to the clips and potentially the NBA image wise if he accepts the sixers offer. To some extent, and everytime the Cavs play the Jazz, Boozer is still viewed negatively the way he left Cleveland. Same situation here.
He may be able to take a call or two in Philly, but he can’t come down to the video shoot if he ain’t in LA (though production could follow him, but I doubt it).
Additionally, GS will target Igoudala with gargantuan money if Brand signs with Philly (I think he’s a Res FA), an offer I don’t think the sixers could match. So now he’s there with Miller, pieces here and there and though he’s in the east and philly becomes dangerous, they’re not going to be dangerous enough. And though the same may be said about the clips in the west, his outside interests are the deciding factor.
Not to slight philly, but do you want be a spokesman for Fletcher Jones Mercedes Benz of Santa Monica or Buck Henry Dodge in Philly? Because I think we all know who pays more…not to mention the free vehicle deal.
I think Philly just found the right groove towards the end of last season and people are parlaying that into this year and I just don’t see it (excl’g the signing of Brand).
Finally, he bales, Davis’ given his word (I know, I know) but it puts tremendous pressure on Baron to now bow out without looking like an idiot…all due to Brand going against everything he’s said. I just don’t see it.
er….
http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/20080708_Sixers__Brand_have_verbal_agreement.html
I love me some Elton Brand, but I think Josh Smith is a better fit for Philly.
Clips gonna make a run for Smith—maybe that leads to ATL paying big money to match, and then Childress being there for the taking?
i agree, qd. and now philly makes themselves vulnerable for someone coming in and stealing iguodala or to a lesser extent, lou williams. it’s a slight panic move. if they hadn’t pushed for elton brand, waited for josh smith and then atlanta finds a way to match, they’re stuck with spreading cap space between nenad krstic and josh childress. not a great back-up plan. but now they don’t have to worry about it. now they just have to worry about their own players.
and elton brand’s knee.
the f.a. puzzle is falling into place:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3479117
have fun, baron davis!
JD: I still think the Clippers will be worth heading downtown to check out more than just the one time the Stones are in town this season. That being said, another seemingly retarded move by a thus far proven to be inept GM, Chris Mullin. He lets Davis and Pietrus (and Brand for that matter) get away and what does he have to show for it? Corey freakin’ Maggette. Um, who’s going to be their point guard? Chauncey Billups? If the salaries matched, I’d say Chauncey for Biedrins and a future pick or Belinelli. Right now, that team is a MESS though. Apparently money is more important than winning to Maggette. Color me not surprised.
think Philly can still re-sign Igoudala. This is from ESPN and there’s no mention of Philly still having to worry about re-signing Igoudala.
“Brand is the proven power player Philadelphia clearly lacks on an otherwise promising roster that won many admirers as last season progressed. The Sixers extended Detroit to six games in a first-round series more competitive than many anticipated and, if they can formally secure Brand’s signature, would be adding a two-time All-Star to veterans Andre Miller and Andre Iguodala, top youngsters Louis Williams and Thaddeus Young, and the considerable wingspan of Samuel Dalembert at center.”
They finished the season 22-12 once they began to start Thaddeus Young. If Brand is a 20-10 guys again (he played pretty well in his 8 games at the end of last season, plus he’s had this whole summer to improve his knee) and they add a shooter to go with their improving young guys they could be pretty damn good next year.
I’m happy to see the East get stronger as a whole.
Nice work, Sixers.
He had some big games for Toronto last year.
His thing is his the 3 point shot.
When he is hitting it he can put up some good numbers in a game.
When he is not hitting the 3 his offense is horrible.
Last year he made 120 threes and only 131 twos. He shoots about 40% on his twos.
His defense has improved since we drafted him but it still is noting to write home about.
I would rather have Hayes than Delfino.
hmm, Sixers own bird rights on Iggy… So technically, them trading the prettiest man in the league and Carney for a bag of donuts and a topless picture of LB’s mom, means they can sign Iggy considering his salary counted on the cap prior to them signing Brand.
Brand gets them a damn good PF but let’s all remember that Brand isn’t exactly a burner on the court. The team went from running and high flying to half court offense in one “yes, I’ll take your $52 million” agreement. Iggy is a horrible jump shooter, and I’ll take the under if you throw out the idea of 50 wins and a conference semis appearance.
Matt Gibson, I’ll take your highlight of Delfino and raise you:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Gd2–een7SI&feature=related
I always enjoyed watching Delfino frustrate opposing swingmen. It seems these foreign guys are best at frustrating their defensive assignments more than actually stopping them.
Delfino has ability, it’s just that his ability is likely better suited for the softer environment provided by overseas basketball. If we signed him it means we better be capped out from another deal, leaving us with a weakness.
the f.a. puzzle is falling into place:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3479117
have fun, baron davis!>>
You can bet he will.
He has million of dollars coming in salary and is back home in the city of lights.
He could care less about winning, though he will never admit it, because he just hit the jackpot with that contract that will allow him to pursue his Hollywood ambitions and live in the city that he loves.
Boo-urns to Delfino. That is all.
All the sixers really need is a cheap shooter… Bones Barry or the like. I’m sure some of them have been working on their shooting over the summer….right? right?
I’d say around 50 wins isn’t out of the question. They’ve got a solid coach they listen to, and a PG who can distribute well.
And now they have an unquestioned leader that Iguodala can play off of. Brand is incredible, and the rest of the team will just fall into place. Think of how he’s going to open up the perimeter. Think of the low-post help defense.
C’mon, Dumars… your turn. Warriors are desperate!
Boney: Do you talk like that to your neighbors in the trailer park? Or are you just still living in mom’s basement? Seriously, if you talk in public like you do here, you’d get your ass kicked in any bar in the entire country. Seriously, let’s go out to a bar when I’m in Detroit, all drinks are on me, because you’ll be in the hospital before you even finish your first drink if you open your mouth to anyone. I’ll spring for the one drink if that’s the case. I’ll buy you a sixpack up front if that’ll seal the deal. And if you don’t act the same in publlic, well you’re just a loudmouth pussy. My money’s on the latter, no nuts.
By Ira Winderman | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
10:50 PM EDT, July 8, 2008
James Jones
James Jones
Miami Heat on verge of offer to James Jones
By Ira Winderman | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
10:50 PM EDT, July 8, 2008
ORLANDO - Following through on his vow to bolster his team’s depth, Miami Heat President Pat Riley moved closer Tuesday to signing James Jones to a free-agent contract, extending a contract offer to the former University of Miami 3-point specialist.
Riley declined comment at the Orlando Pro Summer League.
With the free-agent signing period to commence at midnight, a five-year offer has been extended to Jones, starting at $4 million for next season. The final three years of the contract would be conditional, to protect the Heat for the 2010 free-agency period
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basketball/heat/sfl-0708heatjones,0,5914756.story
Boney said:
“Delfino has ability, it’s just that his ability is likely better suited for the softer environment provided by overseas basketball. If we signed him it means we better be capped out from another deal, leaving us with a weakness.”
Fair points. LB responds:
“Seriously, if you talk in public like you do here, you’d get your ass kicked in any bar in the entire country. ”
What the hell?
Yeah….Delfino’s is EXACTLY what this team has been missing…
Nice work Joe.
My take on the Brand signing…
Ouch. A .500 team just upgraded from Reggie Evans to Elton Brand. If they put Iggy at the two, they’ve got a starting lineup of Miller, Iguodala, Dalembert, Brand and Thad Young.
I would turn to CJ Miles before Delfino. CD is a known quantity, but CJ could turn into something better down the road. I think both will perform comparably next season, but why not go with the younger guy?
I am not so sure that we will sign Delfino.
I don’t know how much effort Joe D. is putting into bringing in a backup for Tay.
It could be that he and MC really believe that Sharpe can get the job done.
We will know more by next week at this time.
Mike, thanks for the James Jones info… wow.
So Jones and Pietrus are both in FLA…. with what could be regretful contracts.
I still think there will be cheap serviceable SG/SFs available a month from now. CJ Miles and Delfino are both decent enough, and inexpensive.
So what the hell is Golden State doing? Why did they sign Maggette? They already have Wacko Jacko at the 3 and Ellis at the 2. Or are they gonna move Ellis? How about a sign and trade of Billups/Maxiell for an Ellis-themed pkg? We could even get our back-up SG/SF with Azubuike… and Harrington or Biedrins in there.
Just thinking out loud here….
kevin s.,
perhaps he was offended that all the Timberwolves were able to acquire for a topless picture of his moms was Calvin Booth.
LB,
Wow, now we’re resorting to personal attacks? No, I don’t live in a trailer park or in my mother’s basement.
oh and when you’re in Detroit you’ll have to let me know so I can stop in and visit… maybe you can pick me up at the airport. I’ll know who to look for, the puny shitstain wearing his 1989-90 “Bad Boys” shirt and Pistons sweatpants.
Until then, I’ll continue to kick around my mom’s basement putting out fires in my lap with my hand while watching youtube highlights of Marco Belinelli or DeVon Hardin… oops that’s going to be you!
kevin: If Boney casually dropped the phrase “… topless picture of [name]’s mom”, I can’t count how many of my friends, playing the role of “[name]” would cause him bodily harm without a second of hesitation. In the Jewish community, we call that being a “schmuck”. There’s no point to discuss anything basketball-related with Boney, because he doesn’t have any value to add. So, in short, I didn’t even notice he wrote something about Delfino. It wouldn’t say anything anyways except maybe about how he is foreign, so like Jawai, he must be a God-like talent.
I’m kind of over those arguments. For now, I’d just like to make sure Boney will take me up on my offer, meet me at a bar somewhere in Detroit, and convey his thoughts about Rip Hamilton to the first random Piston fan we meet. My guess is that Boney’s so weak he couldn’t fight plaque with toothpaste, mouthwash and floss.
Kevin McHale said in a post trade press conference:
“While we’ve all enjoyed having the topless photo of LB’s mom around the locker room we realize that having a real life Calvin Booth walking around provides us with a more attractive option with regards to facial features. We knew the photo alone was not valuable enough to acquire Booth, which is why we threw in a future 1st rounder as well”
In the multi-ethnic community that I run with we call guys like you douches. We prefer to not cause bodily harm, really only because it might scuff our pumas. I would borrow a page from my recently deceased grandfather and call guys like you a namby pamby but, in your case, I’ll stick with douche.
Kind regards,
Boney
@LB, @Boney: -1,000. If you like, I can facilitate an exchange of email addresses so you can continue in private, but it’s getting old here. For everyone’s sake, quit baiting each other, and quit taking the bait.
Salary cap numbers just released.
We have 10 players under contract and sit $2 million over the cap.
We need to sign 5 guys and have a full MLE of $5.6 million to do it with and maybe a little more without exceeding the luxury tax threshold at $71 million which we won’t.
It could be that we might sign Delfino to something like $3 million for this coming year and see if Toronto matches. His QO was only $2.7 million.
Since we still need to sign 5 more guys it appears to me that we Joe D. would most likely break up the MLE, which would throw Posey out of the equation.
So the final 5 could be
———————-
Sharpe
Delfino
W. Bynum
Hunter
Ratliff
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3479183
@Boney and LB: snore snore snore snore snore. You guys need to exchange email addresses and leave DBB alone. I’m no saint, I’ve made a stink or two here on DBB, but my target of choice at least shows a little restraint.
You guys are being very un-dude.
Kiss eachother. Its the 90’s.
@Matt Watson: +1 Brazilion (that’s a Billion times a billion)
Don’t worry Matt and MP, now that Boney has conceded the fight to me, it’s obviously a done deal. Sorry for the approximate three day hijack. I’m happy to be who I am and have my principles, but my sincerest apologies to the DBB community for the interruption. That being said, let’s talk basketball. My musings appear in the new thread since it’s what’s fresh and since I’d presume few of us care to worry any further about Delfino coming back. Could that even really happen in practice? I would find that to be so surreal and so unlike Joe.
LMFAO - you two are priceless, but seriously: This is basketball conversation gentlemen, hold the insults! This is how you were supposed to be treating the Boston fans that were in here during the ECFs, not each other, you degenerate sons of bitches.
My pumas live to see another scuff free day
Delfino always seemed a bit weak mentally to me.
Yo quiero Delfino