3. Stevens likes the player, wants to offer a contract, but ownership wouldn't let him because of financial reasons.
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I don't think (3) applies in any case.
Agreed. Boston's carrying two non-guaranteed players, so they could waive either/both to sign Whiteside/Cousins/whomever tomorrow and not impact the financial picture. Financials just aren't a consideration there because it's a wash.
Hey, I'm hoping you are right about this, but I'm not the only one who has brought up the possibility that ownership has an eye on their bottom line more than they should. Last season, the team that spent the most won the title. The team that lost ran out of gas, among other things and then chose not to use a significant trade exception this summer. Having said that, I also put a high priority on team fit, team chemistry and how a new player will impact that locker room.