NBA Studs and Duds: Week One of Free Agency

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They also signed Charlie Villanueva, who also doesn’t play too much defense. He gives them a decent scoring threat down low, but his game is more outside than inside. Overall, the Pistons have lost the identity that made them successful—great defense.

The Pistons may struggle next year, and if they can’t find a taker for Rip Hamilton, they could have some chemistry issues and may miss out on the playoffs.

Utah Jazz

The Jazz’s front office hasn’t necessarily done a bad job this offseason, but Carlos Boozer may be holding up their future plans. Boozer is not necessarily a bad player, but it seems that the chances of him staying with the team past 2010 are slim. Therefore, it could hurt them down the road.

The Jazz want to bring back Paul Millsap, but it may be tough to convince him to come back with Boozer still on the team. Jazz could rid themselves of the “Dud” label if they are able to trade Boozer and get good value or shed some salary to re-sign Paul Millsap.

There are some teams that could make a move for Boozer like the Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, New Jersey Nets, or Charlotte Bobcats. Something tells me that the Jazz could be moving out of this list, stay tuned.

Interesting But Potentially Horrific

Memphis Grizzlies

Memphis has had an interesting offseason thus far. They made a big trade when they received Zach Randolph from the Clippers. And now there are rampant rumors that the Grizzlies may sign Allen Iverson. I am not quite sure how I feel about the offseason for the Grizzles, but it has been very interesting to say the least.

I like their draft picks: Hasheem Thabeet, DeMarre Carroll, and Sam Young. Thabeet should give them a good defensive and unselfish center who should complement Zach Randolph.

Speaking of Randolph, if he can keep his attitude in check and if he commits a little bit to the defensive end, this could be an excellent pick up for Memphis because he already has good offensive skills.

However, I am not sure that Iverson makes Memphis a better team. Iverson would likely have to play the point with Mayo and Gay filling the shooting guard and small forward positions, respectively. 

I suppose Iverson could be a sixth man, but I don’t think that would go over well.

Personally, the Grizzlies would be better suited finding another point guard, but this could be a much improved team. At the very least, they should be fun to watch.

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