Did Elton Brand Just Pull a Carlos Boozer?

Carlos Boozer told the Cavaliers he wanted to opt out of his contract so he can sign a long-term deal with the team. The Cavaliers got Punk'd while Boozer ran off to Utah.

Elton Brand, in a similar situation, made it clear he was staying with the Clippers. He even told executives to land Baron Davis.

The Clippers were on their way to becoming a top team in the West. All of a sudden, he bolted off to the 76ers.

The deal was for $82 million for 5 years. I do not blame him for taking that money, but the Clippers offered him $80 million and also 5 years. This tells us it had nothing to do with the money.

His agent said Brand wanted to play in the East and for a contender. In other words, he said Brand could not handle the West competition.

The Clippers were on their way to have the best possible off-season, but the Michael Olowokandi curse came into effect. Not only did they lose Brand, but also Corey Maggette left to Golden State.

What do the Clippers do now?

Davis is a good honest man, unlike Brand (no offense), so he will stick around. Josh Smith is the only hope for the Clippers to be an effective team next season. They have the money.

He could push them to be a playoff team. Davis, Mobley (or Gordon), Thornton, Smith, and Kaman would not be a bad lineup.

How will the 76ers do?

Well, this makes them the best team in the East. Yes, over the Celtics. The Sixers competed with the highest level of competition and even beat the Celts.

They have an athletic line up that is very well balanced.

Only problem was they had no low-post star. Brand is that man.

They can beat you many different ways. They also are a deep team now.

They will also sign some other free agents to fill up the roster like a Shaun Livingston.

Brand may get to the finals, but will he be able to sleep at night?

Yeah, but the Clippers front office won't be able to.