The elephant in the room is that we don't know how the new CBA will look. That said let's take a look at how the key players in the upcoming free agency market are positioned.
*note all salary numbers are from the team salary database located at www.shamsports.com
On the books: $47,862,792
Detroit has 9 players on the books for next year with total salary commitments of $47,862,792
Terrico White $788,872 unguaranteed until 7/18/2011
Player options: none
Restricted Free Agents:
Unrestricted Free Agents:
2011 Draft picks:
8th and 33rd overall
Trade Exceptions:
none
Breakdown:
Detroit is in a tough spot again. They already have in the ballpark of $50 million committed provided they do nothing except sign their top draft pick this year. Letting Prince walk away likely hurts them short term, but they can't afford to keep together an aging core that no longer can make it into the playoffs. It appears resigning Stuckey will be their main off season priority, but should they decide to go in another direction they maybe able to outbid the middle level exemption crowd on a target of their choice. Unless they find a way to make a major salary dump, they will likely be weak players in the upcoming free agency market. On the other hand, if a team is willing to take on Hamilton at the cost of their 8th overall pick (as was rumored with Cleveland) Detroit would then find themselves with quite a bit of room to work with. Free agent outlook is rather weak overall.