The love affair with Philadelphia

[Moranis]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

[Evantime34]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

I think they are a couple years away from even attempting to sign free agents.

Next year they will be relying on Emiid coming back from injury, Saric having a smooth transition to the NBA, their first round picks, Canaan and Noel. Pretty much everyone else is a borderline NBA player.

With how bad they have been recently (albeit by design) I don't think free agents will even take their calls until they prove that they are trying to win. To me the proof that they would be trying to improve is when the back half of their roster isn't comprised of d league call ups.

Maybe they will be able to attract free agents once people see that Embiid, can stay healthy, Saric's game translates to the NBA and the draft picks show they are legit, but if you were a free agent why would you gamble on all these things turning out positively when you can just sign with a team that is already good.

[Quetzalcoatl]

Oh god imagine if they got the Lakers' pick at six and then traded the 11th pick (Miami) and the 6th pick for the 4th pick, then got Russell and Mudiay? 

[Evantime34]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

[celticsclay]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

People don't really like facts or logic in these kinds of debates Evan. 

[Evantime34]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

People don't really like facts or logic in these kinds of debates Evan. 

I understand really liking the Sixers due to their potential (which is extremely high), but I think the idea that free agents are going to come play somewhere because a team has a bunch of young players with potential doesn't make sense.

Part of the advantage Boston has in free agency over other rebuilding teams is that they have shown they are close to being a winning team, where teams like Philly haven't.

[Moranis]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

[nickagneta]

I just don't see this Sixers team anywhere near the playoffs for 2-3 years. Sorry adding a bunch of 19 year olds to a bunch of 21 year olds almost always means no playoffs.

[Rondo9]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

How bad is Chicago's situation that they can't afford Jimmy Butler a max contract?

[Evantime34]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

Poison pill contracts aren't a thing in this CBA unless the player is coming off of a 2nd round contract.

Chicago could easily deal Taj Gibson, sign Butler to a max then be under the tax.

The max for Butler and Kawai will be closer to 16-17 MM a year to start not 20 MM+

[Donoghus]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

Poison pill contracts aren't a thing in this CBA unless the player is coming off of a 2nd round contract.

Chicago could easily deal Taj Gibson, sign Butler to a max then be under the tax.

The max for Butler and Kawai will be closer to 16-17 MM a year to start not 20 MM+

I wonder how much value they've lost with Gibson this past season holding onto him.  Certainly could've moved him any of the past couple of summers & gotten more than what they could probably get for him now.

[D.o.s.]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

How bad is Chicago's situation that they can't afford Jimmy Butler a max contract?

Their owner is notoriously frugal -- and has been since the dawn of time, essentially.

[Moranis]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

Poison pill contracts aren't a thing in this CBA unless the player is coming off of a 2nd round contract.

Chicago could easily deal Taj Gibson, sign Butler to a max then be under the tax.

The max for Butler and Kawai will be closer to 16-17 MM a year to start not 20 MM+

They could do what Dallas did to Houston with Chandler Parsons though.

[Moranis]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

How bad is Chicago's situation that they can't afford Jimmy Butler a max contract?

Their owner is notoriously frugal -- and has been since the dawn of time, essentially.

Yep and re-signing Butler doesn't make them any more of a contender then they are right now.  Paying the luxury tax for a team that isn't a real contender is a tough pill to swallow for any team, but Chicago's owner is notoriously frugal (way worse than Sterling was in that aspect). 

[Evantime34]

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I posted somewhere on here fairly recently that I expect Philly to target and go after both Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler this summer.  Both are restricted so I don't know if they end up with either, but even if they get just one I think they make the playoffs next year as I too think they add Russell or Mudiay to their big guys (which is why I think Leonard and Butler will be the target).  Add the legit wing and that team will be a young team on the rise.

I don't see either of those guys agreeing to go to Philly, especially since they will have their pick of max offer sheets to sign.

I think it's a long shot a top restricted free agent would sign an offer in Boston, it's closer to an impossibility that one of those guys signs with Philly.

Figure they'll target D'Angelo Russell in the draft?  Russell, Noel, Embiid will be an interesting team to watch next year.  Maybe they'll use some cap space to sign another impact player.  Eventually Saric will join the party... and then whoever they get with the Lakers 1st next year.   I could see them in the playoffs in 2 years... maybe as soon as next year given how bad the East is.

I could see them target Mudiay, because he's more explosive and could have the higher ceiling, but I think they go with one of those two or Winslow.

This, I really don't understand why one of these guys would consider Philly (and to a lesser extent Boston). In addition to both leaving perennially playoff contenders, it would require them ignoring all other good teams and all other more favorable cities to go play for a team with a bunch of rookies in a cold weather city. Do people seriously see that happening?

I could see Philly as a free agent destination.

Saw the stat earlier today that since the all-star break, they have put up 94.5 points per 100 possessions with Nerlens Noel on the court.  That would be the league's best defense.  Look at their entire season as a whole (and not just Noel's post-allstar surge or the minutes he's on the court) and they have had a top 11 defense this year.     Add Joel Embiid, who should be a formidable big man if he's healthy... and a star prospect through this draft...  That's a pretty desirable destination for a young free agent.  You know the rim is protected for the next 10+ years.  You know there will be plenty of offensive opportunities.   Joining a few budding young phenoms might be a good plan.

But sure, it might take another year for everyone to be sold on what Embiid and Mudiay/Russell will bring to the table.

Not only this, but Philly will have room for two full max plus more space.  So theoretically they could sign both and still have room left over to fill in the bench.

PG - Russell/Mudiay, Canaan, Smith
SG - Butler, Thompson, Wroten
SF - Leonard, Covington, Grant
PF - Noel, Robinson, Aldemir
C - Embiid, Sims

That doesn't include the OKC or Miami picks (which they might get both this year) and they would still have cap room to add some veterans to the bench.

That might not be a title contender next year, but it is most definitely a playoff team and a team that is clearly on the rise.  They would still have Saric and the Lakers pick down the line (and possibly the Miami pick).

I don't think the sell job is that difficult if you can get both Butler and Leonard to buy into playing together, of course I think the Bulls and Spurs match all offers, so it might be a moot point.

If they are going after Butler or Kawai they are going to need to pay their current teams in a sign and trade to not match. That is going to cost some of the picks and prospects you listed earlier. If the young assets you like so much have to be dealt as part of the signing then why would free agents want to sign there?

Chicago has real financial issues and San Antonio isn't exactly a big market.  As I said, I expect both teams to match, though I certainly wouldn't put it at a given, especially Chicago (they have 56 million locked up in 5 players next year).  Their owner is notoriously cheap, they might not feel giving Butler 20+ million a year works for them.  For San An, Manu, Duncan, and Green (though Manu and TD both may retire) are also free agents this summer (they have a few others as well) and they already have like 30 million locked in for Parker, Splitter, and Diaw.  San Antonio isn't exactly a huge market.  I think Leonard will be their top priority and that they will match, but you just never know what looking at a 20 million dollar a year price tag will do to a team. 

And the thing is Philly is so far under the cap they can put the poison pill contract offers out there, making matching more difficult.  Again I think they match, but I don't think it is a given in either case.

Poison pill contracts aren't a thing in this CBA unless the player is coming off of a 2nd round contract.

Chicago could easily deal Taj Gibson, sign Butler to a max then be under the tax.

The max for Butler and Kawai will be closer to 16-17 MM a year to start not 20 MM+

They could do what Dallas did to Houston with Chandler Parsons though.

Dallas signed Parsons to an offer sheet and then Dallas decided not to match. Also Parsons was coming off of a 2nd round contract so the rules are not the same as those for Kawai and Butler.