False Report? Billups to resign w/the Pistons

[JamStone]

That's a horrible contract to give a 30 something PG.

If it's 5 years for $60, it's a great deal for the Pistons, even for a 30 something PG. I have a feeling it will be more than that. Billups' effectiveness isn't predicated on athleticism or quickness. So, even if he starts to decline, it won't be as drastic as say a player like Ben Wallace or Desmond Mason who really rely on their athleticism.

And, Steve Nash and Jason Kidd have already proven that point guards can be effective into their mid 30s and can absolutely earn a huge salary despite getting older.

[Vinnie_Johnson]

Pistons close in on deal with Billups

Chris McCosky / The Detroit News



AUBURN HILLS -- The Pistons on Tuesday felt they were close to having an agreement that would pay Chauncey Billups $60 million over five years.

While the Pistons maintain that the structure is solid, Billups' agent, Andy Miller, does not.

"The deal is not done," Miller said. "We have not agreed in principle to anything. The discussions are ongoing. I wouldn't say they were positive or negative. There are still a lot of hurdles that haven't been addressed to our satisfaction or theirs."

The basic premise of the deal is believed to be solid -- five years and $60 million. What needs to be worked out, apparently, is the language of the fifth year. That fifth year might not be entirely guaranteed, or, the bulk of the $60 million will be paid over the first four years.

Billups, 30, who has led the Pistons to the Eastern Conference finals the last five years and was the MVP of the 2004 NBA Finals, cannot sign until July 11.

Miller would not comment on whether any other team was bidding on Billups' services. But it is unlikely.

Billups was the top-ranked point guard on the free agent market, but he lost some negotiating leverage on draft night last Thursday when potential bidders Charlotte and Memphis went in different directions -- the Bobcats taking on Jason Richardson and his $51 million salary and the Grizzlies drafting point guard Mike Conley, Jr.

Billups lost additional leverage on Monday when Orlando, a third potential bidder, agreed to sign Rashard Lewis to a maximum contract.

Still, agent Miller has been able to work a lucrative deal. Billups contract would be richer than one signed two years ago by Steve Nash and not nearly as exorbitant as Jason Kidd's $103 million deal.

The Pistons now have the mid-level exception -- worth roughly $6 million for next season -- to re-sign Amir Johnson and sign another free agent (potentially Grant Hill). The Pistons would like to split that $6 million between those two players.

Hill was in discussions with the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.