Say, Smart signs a 4-year extension with us at a price that isn't as much as we thought due to the market that will likely shape up this summer (8-10M/Year).
We'd have Rozier's Bird Rights after next year and we're going into the luxury tax AFTER next season guaranteed anyways (IF we don't this next season, which is possible with some Ainge magic I hear from some cap experts here).
I'm not going to compare the two players, but it's clear they have unique skillsets and potential going forward, and I like the idea of having a back court of Kyrie, Smart (or Hayward in spurts), with Rozier being the "ideal" 6th man type guard/player who is more than capable of starting games as well in case of injuries or match ups.
Rozier is definitely having a good season IMO, and while it's true he can still be erratic at times and his Bball IQ isn't super high, he's been fun to watch and it's true that in some really bad situations (like missing half our team and starters), the guy has stepped up and led us to wins as well.
And of course, we need Smart especially on defense when going up against guys like Wall, Beal, Lowry, DeRozan, Oladipo, etc. etc., and of course for his "winning plays"
So, is there a way, or will Ainge be FORCED to make a tough decision here too.
I'm guessing part of the decision will come down to luxury tax implications overall going forward with ownership and profits, as well as what happens with Lebron this summer (does he go Philly? Stay CLE? Or leave the East, which is favorable to us so long as he doesn't actually join Golden State lol)