Despite only playing eight games in the 2007-08 season, Elton Brand is still one of the top free agents this offseason. Brand has been a 20-10 player his entire career, so what team—a team with cap space, that is—wouldn't be trying to pursue him?
Three teams—Golden State, Philadelphia, and the Los Angeles Clippers—are in the race to pursue Brand. But of course, only one team is going to get their wish.
Which team is Brand better suited to? Let's take a look, starting in Golden State.
Golden State Warriors
Positives: Brand is the low-post player Golden State has been missing the past few years.
Their top draft pick in 2006 (Patrick O'Bryant) turned out to be a bust after being drafted ninth overall. Ike Diogu, who seemed to have good upside, also failed to become the player Golden State hoped he would be.
The Warriors probably have the least chance of acquiring Brand, but you never know.
Negatives: Brand would be a great signing for the Warriors, but will he make them contenders? The answer is no. Now that Baron Davis has agreed to sign with Brand's current team, the addition of Brand really wouldn't make them a playoffs caliber team.
Also, with the Western Conference as loaded as it is, Golden State's chances of making the playoffs aren't guaranteed. If Brand wants to lose his reputation of never making the playoffs, Golden State may not be the best option.
Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers were a surprising team last season, even for the Eastern Conference. With guys like Andre Miller, Andre Iguodala, and Samuel Dalembert on the roster, Philly could be one player away from making even more noise this season.
And who better to fill that void than Elton Brand?
Positives: As I just mentioned, Miller, Iguodala and Dalembert are solid building blocks for a guy like Brand to step in and contribute right away. Plus, Philly is in process of trading Rodney Carney and Calvin Booth to free up cap space.
Miller and Brand would also be reunited from their days in Los Angeles. Boston, Detroit, Orlando, and Toronto are the elite teams in the Eastern Conference right now. Throw Brand in the mix and the Sixers join the list.
With Brand and Dalembert in the post, Philly could arguably have the best frontcourt in the Eastern Conference. Ultimately, this could be the best fit for Brand next season.
Negatives: None
Los Angeles Clippers
Brand has spent the last seven seasons as a Clipper, and losing is something Brand has become accustomed to. But with Davis now running the show at point guard, Brand has a chance to reach the playoffs for just the second time in his nine-year career.
Positives: His good friend Baron Davis is now the newest point guard for the Clippers—and with these two, Los Angeles has a chance to slip into the playoffs. They also have a solid building block in Al Thornton, a lottery pick in Eric Gordon, and another solid piece in Chris Kaman.
Negatives: Though the Clippers will more than likely win more games, the parity in the Western Conference will make it hard for them to reach the postseason. If Golden State won 48 games this past season and missed the postseason, who knows if Los Angeles can make the playoffs?
But they do have a legit chance—if the Clippers re-sign Brand.
Michael Whittenberg, a senior writer for bleacherreport.com, is also one of two NBA Community Leaders
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3 months ago
It seems like the Sixers just won the battle. Elton Brand is the new Carlos Boozer.
from 3 months ago
Brand might have did the opposite of what he said, this is a great deal for Philly. Brand will be an All-Star next season if he stays healthy.
from 3 months ago
I totally agree with that, he's a great player.
3 months ago
Michael, I totally did not think that Brand would come here to Philly. My lack of faith in my town has come back to bite me. I can say i'm happy though.
from 3 months ago
A couple people thought I was crazy for picking Brand to Philly. It's the best fit for him he wants to win and make the playoffs. I don't blame him at all.
3 months ago
Finally, my team is able to land a big name player! I don't think he'll be as influential as Moses Malone but I think he will play a huge role on this team!
from 3 months ago
Agreed, he also reunites with in my opinion, the most underrated point guard in the NBA in Andre Miller.
from 3 months ago
Miller really is the most underrated. He's up there in talent with Steve Nash or J-Kidd but he's never recognized because he doesn't score much. But, he doesn't want to. He'd rather get the assist than the points.
3 months ago
Good work here, Michael. You picked it out too!
3 months ago
I think the Sixers are the best fit and I think that's where he lands. Just think they will offer him more money. : )
3 months ago
Out of all the teams in the NBA you somehow picked the team that does pick Brand up. HOW? Great article Michael.
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