It has now been widely reported (including twitters by the player himself) that Ron Artest will sign with the Lakers.
The Deal - Reportedly, it is a three year deal worth about 18 million. I've also heard that it's the Mid-Level Exception, about $5.9 million per, for anywhere from 3 to 5 years.
The Lakers' Free Agency Picture - The Lakers have a new starting SF, and Trever Ariza will not be a Laker next year. Somebody else will have the honor for overpaying him based on potential and a strong play-off run. Houston is an early candidate. Also, the Laker's have the money resign Odom for around $10 million, since they won't be overpaying Ariza and they didn't give Artest too much. If Odom really wants to stay, he'll get a reasonable offer to.
The NBA's Free Agency Picture - The Lakers have upped the ante for the 2009-2010 season. The contenders (Boston, Cleveland, Orlando, San Antonio, Denver, Portland, Dallas maybe) may feel pressure to makes moves to keep pace. Ariza hops onto the open market in earnest and could see a considerable payday. I wouldn't be shocked to see him get 5 years, $50 million. The non-contenders may (should) feel even more dis-heartened and really look ahead to next year's free-agency period and 2011 and 2012 seasons.
Was It A Good Deal for the Lakers? - From a talent stand-point, it's a steal. Artest does most of what Ariza did (outside shooting, man to man defense) and some things better (rebounding, overall scoring ability). Ariza is much younger, and much faster but not as good overall right now. On the other hand, by making this deal, the Laker's have upset the chemistry of the team. Win or lose, this is a different Laker team. There is risk for anybody by not standing pat on the roster that got you the 'chip. Artest's nature (personality, aggresive play-style) only exacerbates that risk to the chemistry. Then again, coaching Artest might be an incentive for Phil Jackson to coach another year.
The Inside Scoop - Ariza's agent is David Lee, the guy that got the Lakers to give Bynum that 4-year, $57 million contract that they are regreting right now (and asked for even more). I doubt the Buss family relished the idea of playing tug-o-war with Lee in order to ultimately over-pay one of his clients.
Signing Grade - (B+)
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