Money talks! With the exception of Gilbert Arenas (although he is getting $111) and Antawn Jamison who actually stayed with the Washington Wizards, every other free agent seems to be choosing a different direction and signing with the team that throws them the big bucks.
First it was Baron Davis shocking the Golden State Warriors by opting out and signing with the Los Angeles Clippers. Then both Corey Maggette (Warriors) and Elton Brand (Philadelphia 76ers) decided to leave LA for reportedly more money.
The fun didn't stop there as some big trades have gone down including Jermaine O'Neal going to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for TJ Ford, and Richard Jefferson heading to Milwaukee for second year man Yi Jianlian and ex-clipper Bobby Simmons.
The Clippers also got in on the trade front, trying to replace Brand by getting Marcus Camby from the Denver Nuggets for a second round draft pick (which was a steal). It would be near impossible to replace a 20 and 10 guy like Brand, but as a former defensive player of the year and an all-around solid big man, Camby should fit in nicely.
As for the Lakers, they have done nothing but stand by and watch as all these teams try and build better franchises. Maybe that is a good thing, but missing out on snatching James Posey from the free agent market was a bad idea.
As of July 16, James Posey has agreed to sign with the New Orleans Hornets who with Posey in their lineup look to be even better than last year's surprisingly good squad led by Chris Paul. Reportedly Posey will be paid about $25 million over four years.
The Lakers not making an offer for Posey tells us one of two things. Either they are looking to match Golden State's offer for Ronny Turiaf ($16 million) or they have other plans for the future, like being able to offer Ron Artest a big contract when he becomes a free agent.
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