Ron Artest: Will He Stay or Will He Go?

When asked last week if he would accept a contending team's mid-level exception (MLE), Ron Artest said, "Not in a million years...not in 10 million years."

However, more recent reports (credible or not) have Artest now contemplating opting out after all by the June 30 deadline. He has apparently made a "100-degree turn," in his words. That's not a full 180—but it is over half-way there.

Does this possible change of heart mean he would accept the MLE? Or does it mean one team or another is willing to line him up with a sign-and-trade relocation opportunity? Who would have the wherewithal to entice the Kings, as well as Artest and his agent, to make a move?

Does his being "tight" with Kobe and Lamar Odom mean anything? He traveled to watch them play the Celtics more than once during the Finals—and after that, he should know now that they could really use him.

Artest is straight about rejecting any team's MLE, only a trade of L.O.'s expiring contract for Artest would seem to work. Would L.A. risk that? That expiring contract of Odom's is pretty valuable. And, he might be the starting point guard next season!

Plus, Artest would want to play with both Kobe and Odom, right? Odom, who comes from the same parts as Artest, is an idol of his (that's right ... he said so).

To be realistic, and ruling out the Lakers, where could Artest end up? Can you see he and Wally Szcerbiak—along with his ridiculous, finally expiring contract—exchanging jerseys?

How about switching positions with Josh Howard? Or, how badly does Phoenix want to upgrade their defense? (But how badly does anyone want Boris Diaw or Leandro Barbosa?)

The Spurs could use him too, even if he is a bit outside their norm. But, who do they have to offer?

How about the New Orleans Hornets? They can let Jannero Pargo walk, and maybe have just enough to get it done—with their MLE and the $3 million received for their draft pick this year (and allowable for FA signing).

Would the Pistons even think about it? They certainly have the assets and the desire for a face lift.

What about the Nuggets? They had their chance this season. I doubt they get another. Charlotte apparently offered Gerald Wallace for T.J. Ford. Would the ex-King fetch Artest?

Sacramento will need a point guard after Beno Udrih signs elsewhere. Would Kirk Hinrich—alone, or with the seemingly expendable Tyrus Thomas—suffice to return Artest to the team that couldn't keep him the first time around?

Take a guess and check the first part—the opt-out part—of the answer on Monday. It still stands to reason that Artest plays out the final year in Sac-town—at least until February.

But, if he does spring, and you can't (or don't want to) picture him in Laker purple and gold, picture him in a Cavs, Mavs, Hornets, Pistons, Bobcats, or Bulls jersey instead. Can you stand it? Could he?