Most likely due to his hot head, and his selfish play at hoping to obtain a higher contract, analysts say this might have lowered his contract rate.
Sean Deveney of The Sporting News heard from a GM around the beginning of February who expected Lance Stephenson to receive offers with eight-figure annual salaries, but an executive now tells Deveney that the soon-to-be free agent will probably command only $7-8MM a year.
If Stephenson goes for under 10 million, I would hope Ainge can possibly try to clear some cap space. Stephenson is still a great player, and an Allstar. If we picked him up, there can definitely be players interested in coming over.
I'm still hoping that a line up of Rondo, Stephenson, Green, Love and Asik happens.
That is a dark horse contender that has four players battle tested and proven in the playoffs. Love has never made it, but with the guidance of Rondo/Stephenson, this may be his best chance at finally making it to the playoffs and not sitting on the couch watching it.