Ben Gordon Update…
According to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald, Ben Gordon has had discussion with the Russian team CSKA Moscow about a one year deal. The Herald is reporting that the Russian offer is believed to be for $5.5 million, while Gordon’s camp is seeking roughly $7 million, much like Josh Childress received earlier in the off-season (and much like what Leonardo Barbosa, a player who puts up similar production to Gordon, is receiving here in the United States). Gordon still has the option to sign the Bulls’ one year qualifying offer for $6.4 million. In any case, Gordon would be an unrestricted free agent next off-season.
Admittedly, I have an infatuation with the Ben Gordon situation. I understand that the Bulls and Gordon’s camp have not been able to reach an agreement, and I also understand that Gordon probably is not worth the money that he is seeking. But the fact that he is not signed yet is ridiculous.
In a recent post, I claimed that part of me still wants Walsh to go out and pluck Gordon. While he might not be the greatest fit on this team, the man has serious offensive potential. With Stephon Marbury potentially being bought out, Ben Gordon would look real nice as the Knicks’ sixth man behind Duhon and Crawford. I can’t even imagine the schemes D’Antoni would be able to draw up for him. But Walsh is not looking to add a contract that will impede his intentions during the Summer of LeBron. Would Gordon be willing to accept a two year deal from the Knicks at a steep rate? Would $12 million per year for two years entice him, knowing that he would be an unrestricted free agent in an off-season when many teams may potentially have cap room? This is far-fetched and would probably not happen, but it is definitely worth a thought.
So I have to wonder, how available is Gordon? How is it that a player of his caliber could still be unemployed, especially with plenty of teams out there looking for an upgrade at the 2? I would not expect Walsh to go after him because he is not looking to add salary passed the next two seasons, but what about the other teams in the league? Are the Bulls’ seriously considering a sign-and-trade with him, or are they simply trying to retain him at the lowest possible cost? Maybe other teams have not shown interest, which is puzzling to me. I am curious to see how this ends, and I will be upset if Gordon ends up abroad, albeit for one season.
