Detroit Looks to Pursue Villanueva
Charlie Villanueva will most likely be getting a big pay day, most likely not from the Cavaliers. Although Villanueva is highly valued by the Cavaliers, Cleveland will need a miracle to sign him.
Only thirteen hours into free agency, the Detroit Pistons have made it clear that they are looking to pursue Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva. The Pistons have a big hole at the post position after losing Rasheed Wallace and Antonio McDyess to free agency and Villanueva seems to be the best replacement at the 4 spot.
This spells bad news for the Cavaliers. The Detroit Pistons have the most money in free agency and intend to use it. The Cavaliers however can only sign players to a Mid-Level Exception contract (5.6 million). If the Cavaliers offer the MLE to Villanueva, Detroit could easily outbid Cleveland.
Not only does this take away from the Cavaliers but it adds to the Detroit Pistons. By signing both Gordon and Villanueva, the Detroit Pistons will have thrown their name in the mix for making a run in the East.
So where does Cleveland go from here? If your asking this blogger, I think the Cavs look in the direction of Rasheed Wallace or Brandon Bass (hopefully Bass). Many Cavalier fans are calling for the signing of Wallace, who is known for his smooth stroke from the perimeter along with his poor attitude and late game antics.
Although it will be disappointing if Detroit signs Villanueva, it should be very interesting to see how Cavs GM Danny Ferry responds to losing out on CV.
RON ARTEST.
July 1st, 2009 at 5:56 pmI am just not sold on him staying sane for 82+ while betting on Shaq staying healthy all year.
July 2nd, 2009 at 3:39 am