Question about new CBA

[theham]

If the C's resign a bunch of their own guys (KG, Ray Ray, Bass, Pietrus, Stiemsma, etc.), bringing their payroll over the salary cap, are they still eligible for the mid-level? If so, it seems like that might be a better approach than trying to use their space to lure other FAs.

I'd love it if they brought back nearly everyone (everyone I mentioned above, plus Dooling, and Green if he's healthy), and have them use their mid-level to add a big man with defensive and rebounding skills. Someone like Asik would be ideal, and a great complement to KG in the starting lineup. Think he could be had for the full mid-level?

A starting 5 of RR, AB, PP, KG and OA with bench of KD, MP, RA, JG, BB and GS (plus JJJ, EM and first rounders for extra depth) would make for an extremely balanced team with offense and defense on the court at all times. And they could shave about 10-15 mil off their current payroll. Thoughts?

[LooseCannon]

To get under the cap, the Celtics would have to renounce the mid-level exception.  (They would gain the "room" exception given to teams under the cap.)

As a player with two seasons of experience, Asik's salary next season is capped at the league average, which the Bulls can match due to holding his early Bird rights.  If you think the Bulls would be willing to pay that much, then I see little chance of him being had.  The best case scenario is probably a double sign-and-trade of Ray Allen for Asik and Rip Hamilton (and I think you have to take Hamilton's salary back to make that trade).