According to Sam Smith the agent for Ben Gordon is saying that the Pistons are promising Ben Gordon an $11 million a year FA deal. Technically, teams cannot negotiate with FA's until July 1st, so this would be a no-no if true (even though we know teams don't really wait until July 1st to start any negotiation).
If this is true, then Rip Hamilton would need to be traded b/c they each play the same position and would earn roughly the same salary. The question becomes do you take Gordon over Rip? He is 5 years younger and that is extremely important. He is also a better pure scorer than Rip averaging around 20 points a game the last 3 years. He is also a superior 3 point shooter with a career .415 average (.410 last year) compared to Rip's .349 average (.368 last year). They are also roughly equally when comparing FG% and FT%, and rebound average. On the other hand, Rip will give you about 1 assist more per game, is 4-5 inches taller and a better defender, and a playoff-tested veteran.
All things considered, though, Gordon is 5 years younger and is approaching his prime. He is better offensively and worse defensively. At the moment, overall, they are pretty equal as players. But, Rip is nearing the end of his prime and has played A LOT of basketball these last 6-7 years. In cases like this, you usually always take the younger player. So, if it comes down to offering Gordon the contract and trading Rip, I'd do it.
This is all speculation, though.
7 hours ago
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