As is always the case during NBA free agency, fans and analysts alike reacted as deals—and the high-dollar number of them in some cases—were reported in close to real-time.
Guard Fred VanVleet’s staggering three-year, $130-million contract with the Rockets seemed to generate the most discussion. But not far behind it in terms of buzz was Desmond Bane’s new max extension deal with the Grizzlies, which clocked in at five years for $207 million, making it the largest contract in team history. As such, some were befuddled: How could a player—skilled as he is—land a deal for so much without having been an All-Star before? Is it a wise move?
But the answer is yes: Even if it were to turn out to be a bit of an overpay—and with time, it may not be—this was a sensible, obvious move for the Grizzlies to max their homegrown star wing for any number of reasons.
