The Thunder have done with Durant what Cleveland was unable to do with Lebron: put both the money, and the scouting into building the proper pieces around him, albeit through free agency, trades, or the draft. It’s credit to the higher-ups as well as the team system that head coach Scott Brooks has implemented.

Comparing the big four for the Thunder and their current Lakers opponents:

Spotrac Tags: cap hits, lakers, thunder

It’s many a fan’s opinion that the actual gameplay over the past few seasons has been nearly unwatchable – with defense clearly a priority, and the grittiness and toughness that the game should boast converted to post-whistle chippiness.
Just 7 years removed from a lockout that vowed to change the game for the better, the sport seems to have reverted back to its slow, methodical “systematic” play.

Let’s take 25 of Steven Stamkos‘ 60 goal output this season, and sprinkle them across the rest of the league. And furthermore, let’s make it a league initiative to sit down with these franchises and instill a desire to score – not just win. Too many games this year were driven by the opportunity to “outlast the 3rd period and overtime” to get to a better percentage shoot-out. Teams who found themselves a goal up immediately turtled back into a prevent stance, instead of working to stick the dagger in further with additional scoring.

It’s nobody’s business to discount the strategies of winning – but the league has a right to object to the product it displays, and while more fans may be tuning in this season, how many of them will take the time to come back?

Spotrac Tags: attendance, NHL, ratings, unwatchable, viewers

• The Minnesota Vikings have played cat and mouse with Matt Kalil (T, USC)  for the past 2 weeks. We’re not buying it. They have $106 million tied up into their franchise quarterback, and their all-world running back. A franchise left tackle is the ONLY correct draft for Minnesota.

• The Cleveland Browns live in a divison where tough running trumps elite quarterback play. Trent Richardson (RB, Alabama) is the correct pick, and the safest – even if it’s more short term than other positions. With the #4 and the #22 picks tomorrow night, there shouldn’t be an expert in the building who discounts the need for Cleveland to take a Running Back, Quarterback – in that order.

• St. Louis took 20 steps back last season after what looked like a franchise on the rise two years ago. They owe their fans, and their current roster not just a safe pick – but a sexy one. Justin Blackmon (WR, Oklahoma State) is that pick. While he may not be Calvin Johnson, he’s a legitimate weapon to go with a franchise quarterback, a tough running back with only a few years left, and a franchise overall that should be better than their 2011 wins and losses show.

• The Miami Dolphins don’t have a choice at #8. If they don’t select Ryan Tannehill (QB, Texas A&M), and the Heat don’t win the NBA Championship in a month – look for the city to be under fire by mid June. No word on what will happen when Tannehill turns out to be a bust in 3 years.

• If the Baltimore Ravens don’t LOVE the defensive player they feel will be available at 29, it’s the right year to make a move up and get their guy. By the grace of Lewis & Reed, this team found a way back into the AFC Championship game in 2012, but it was evident that the air was about to leave this long-time powerhouse. The current defensive roster can’t win in their division – but they still have plenty of pieces overall to contend. Look for them to make a splash tomorrow night.

• If the Jets take Michael Floyd, (WR, Notre Dame) he will have already slipped 5+ spots to the #16 position. How many Notre Dame players taken in the 1st round have to bust before franchises wake up?  Floyd is a Top 10 pick on paper. But the papers stamped with the Irish logo should be filed way under those with SEC college logos on them.

Keep track of all draft picks, and NFL signings at www.spotrac.com

Spotrac Tags: 1st round, nfl draft, predictions

The ramifications of “bounty-gate” have yet to directly impact the roster – but many assume those punishments will come down in the next few days. Jonathan Vilma (LB) is the most likely candidate for a long-term suspension. His $6.6 million cap hit for 2012, combined with an extremely subpar 2011 on the field should sway the Saints to outright release him. Quite frankly the fact that it hasn’t been done yet is evidence that the franchise has no handle on what kind of team they’re about to put on the field this season.

Arguably the most important player to ever wear a Saints uniform in captain Drew Brees is publicly disgusted by their lack of effort to place a legitimate contract offer on his table, and significant losses on both sides of the ball this free agency season (Robert Meachum, Carl Nicks) won’t be immediately replaced in a 2012 draft that leaves them without a pick until Round 3 (1st round pick was traded for Mark Ingram last draft, 2nd round pick was rescinded by the NFL).

The AFC East

For years now this division has been the New England Patriots – and everyone else. While the AFC champion Pats still remain a threat, they no longer stand alone as the face of the East.

The Buffalo Bills threw the kitchen sink at legitimate playmakers this free agency, bringing in the top defensive player available in Mario Williams,  and his former Houston lineman Mark Anderson while also resigning WR Stevie Johnson. With an offense that showed sparks in 2011, and a draft full of picks, the Bills could position themselves for 10-11 wins in 2012.

Meanwhile in New Jersey, the Jets made more noise on the gossip lines than anywhere else – but they’ve created a buzz around the league that will render them must-see-tv. The Peyton – Sanchez – Tebow drama that was the Jets 2011 offseason leaves the franchise in a bit of a circus state, and in reality – the team really hasn’t gotten any better.

The San Francisco 49ers

Their offseason decisions & signings don’t seem to be sitting right. The Niners brought in Randy Moss & Mario Manningham to go with the resigning of Ted Ginn Jr.  and Brett Swain to add depth to their receiving core. Moss is a flyer, and his contract denotes that. Manningham is a postseason hero, and a legitimate #2 target – provided that a legitimate #1 target takes the majority of the defensive attention on the field. The Niners still don’t seem to have found their legitimate #1.

San Francisco also brought in Giants spill-over running back Brandon Jacobs as a banger, third-down back. Frank Gore, their feature back and core to the offense, has proven annually that he can’t put forth an injury-free season, and the list of running backs available this free agency gave the Niners a chance to bring in a viable #2 back to cover this. The signing of Jacobs seems forced, with options such as Cedric Benson, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, and Peyton Hills available.

The Niners seem to be filling in their offensive weapons on a trial by error basis, so a repeat run to the NFC Championship game seems difficult, if not unlikely.

Quick Bits

London Fletcher returned to the Redskins a few weeks ago. He’s been a leader and a physical presence everywhere he’s landed. His decision to stay in Washington means he believes in the direction the Redskins are going.

Tampa Bay may have overpaid this offseason, but much like the Bills, they did what it took to get the players they wanted (Vincent Jackson, Carl Nicks, Amobi Okoye )

The Green Bay Packers made one quiet move, and it might be the most impacting move of the free agency season (OK, so maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration). The Pack signed long-time Colts Center Jeff Saturday to a two-year contract.

Kevin Kolb is still showing symptoms from his 2011 concussion. The Cardinals were clearly in the pool for Peyton Manning, and possibly other free agent quarterbacks (Matt Flynn, Alex Smith) – so it’s not far off to wonder where the team stands heading into the summer – and by stands I mean John Skelton.

Spotrac Tags: buffalo bills, new orleans saints, NFL Free Agency, san francisco 49ers

Spotrac takes a look at the top MLB players by position who will be playing the 2012 season for their next contract.

Cole Hamels
Starting Pitcher, Philadelphia

The Phillies #3 starting pitcher is poised to land ace money in the 2012 off-season should he continue to perform at the level he has in recent seasons. The Phillies have a daunting year ahead of them battling age, injuries, and an improved division. Their success or lack thereof may dictate Hamel’s future.

Matt Cain
Starting Pitcher, San Francisco

Similar to Hamels, Cain has been overshadowed by flashier pitchers in the Giants rotation, but can legitimately compete at an ace-level at
times. He’ll generate plenty of conversation should the Giants decide to let him test the market.

Zack Greinke
Starting Pitcher, Milwaukee

Greinke can raise his stock considerably in this contract season by carrying a strong, but Prince-less Brewers team on his back.  He’s shown in his Kansas City days that he can win with very little around him, so there’s no reason to believe he shouldn’t have a solid season.

Jonathan Broxton
Relief Pitcher, Kansas City

The 29 year old closer will have a lot to prove in Kansas City this year after being tossed aside by the Dodgers in 2011. Broxton sits with a 1 year contract with the Royals and a productive season may warrant him a long-term contract in 2013.

Mike Napoli
Catcher, Texas

Coming off of a solid season with the Rangers (after being traded from Los Angeles), Napoli has the right mix of defensive talent, and consistent hitting to warrant another legitimate contract. It’s safe to say the Rangers will be in the mix to keep him should his 2012 numbers match up.

James Loney
1st Baseman, Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers now have a formidable backing in ownership, but still a mess of contracts, and franchise ramifications hanging over them. It’s not out of the question to think that the next 1-2 seasons will be bumpy in order to full recover, and that probably means losing quality talent to bigger offers. Loney is a prime candidate to fall into this category.

Brandon Phillips
2nd Baseman, Cincinnati

The long-time Red has been one of the most consistent 5-tool values in the game for years now, and at only 32 years of age will certainly be in conversation should he hit the market. Should the Reds fall out of contention this year, look for Phillips to be on the trade-block.

David Wright
3rd Baseman, New York Mets

The Mets do hold a club option with Wright for 2013,  but it’s a $16 million option. With financial issues covering the franchise, the Mets will have to be creative to keep the long-time face of their franchise in tact. They’ve already watched Carlos Beltran, Francisco Rodriguez, and Jose Reyes head out of town, and many speculate that Wright will have to be the next in line.

Josh Hamilton
Left Fielder, Texas

An off-season that was certain to include a major contract for Hamilton with the Rangers turned ugly as the slugger once again found himself in personal struggles. The Rangers have been known to take gambles though, and they’ve got the 2012 season to use as a basis for their decision. Look for Texas to make their power-hitter a significant offer should he prove to be reliable on and off the field.

B.J. Upton
Center Fielder, Tampa Bay

One of the most versatile talents in the game, Upton hasn’t been able to stay healthy for a long enough period of time to generate elite buzz. Now, entering the final year of his contract, Upton has age (28) and a plethora of talent surrounding him. He’ll have a chance to garner a big time pay-day should his 2012 season stand up.

Melky Cabrera
Center Fielder, San Francisco

The multi-talented outfielder never found a comfortable spot in the Yankees lineup. But his short time in San Francisco has been successful, and many think this year becomes the 28-year-old’s true breakout season. He’ll be one of the top outfield prospects on the board should he reach free agency.

For a complete listing of 2013 MLB free agents, check out our Free Agent Tracker

Spotrac Tags: contract year, fantasy value, free agents, MLB

 
Is Mike Wallace really worth a 1st round pick PLUS a sizable contract?
Good not great wide-receivers flooded this free agent market, and for the first time in awhile two receivers are projected as top 10 picks in the draft. That being said, any buzz regarding the signing of Mike Wallace to a team not named Pittsburgh seems unlikely. With a first-round restricted tender, plus a $7-8 million per year contract at hand, the price seems much too high. Pittsburgh was smart in placing an all-or-nothing tag on the wide out, and we expect Wallace to remain in black and gold.

 
How far will the New Orleans Saints fall in light of their possible suspensions, conflict with Drew Brees’ contract, and tough free agent losses?
We said this last year, and they fought themselves back into the top-tier of the NFC yet again, but the tension surrounding the Saint’s franchise heading into 2012 seems insurmountable. They have a front-office under fire for the “bounty” scandal (including head coach Sean Payton), a miffed all-pro quarterback after franchising Drew Brees, and multiple major vacancies in free agency thus far.

 
With the recent signing of Mike Tolbert, who’s the odd-running-back out in Carolina going forward?
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart were already battling for legitimate playing time. Now enter Mike Tolbert, a legitimate red-zone, durable back, and it’s certain one of the three will certainly be sent out of town. Williams is the athlete of the group, and might be able to flex into a more versatile player for the Panthers, so it  makes sense to place Stewart on the block sooner than later.

Are the Jets forgetting they have almost no weapons offensively?
Ladanian Tomlinson is certain to retire. Shonn Greene has been an average addition to the run game. Joe McKnight is barely a #2 back. Santonio Holmes is by far the top weapon, but character issues surround him on a weekly basis. The Jets took a step back this free agency season by doing almost nothing. There was a legitimate crop of mid-level weapons to vie for, and the Jets reeled in none.

Where will Tim Tebow head with Peyton Manning rolling into town?
The general consensus has Tebow already in Jacksonville. But the inability for the Miami Dolphins to improve their situation this offseason leaves them as desperate players in the Tim Tebow game. With college ties, family ties, and a general franchise need for a splash – both Miami and Jacksonville are viable landing spots at this point.

Spotrac Tags: matt flynn, NFL Free Agency, Peyton Manning, tim tebow

Peyton Manning (QB)
The free agent circus for Peyton started late last week and has refined itself down to reportedly just a few teams. Denver, Arizona, Miami, Houston

Mario Williams (DE)
The Peyton Manning of the defensive free agent list will garner a handful of life-size offers when the window opens. Our
Fits: Seattle, Chicago, Houston

Vincent Jackson (WR)
Prior to this morning, the Redskins were the clear-cut front-runner for the veteran receiver. But $36M in salary cap sanctions will certainly affect their ability to make a big splash.
Fits: Tampa Bay, Chicago, and Buffalo

Carl Nicks (G)
Arguably the league’s best guard, Nicks has been designated the odd-man-out in New Orleans with the team up against the cap. He won’t be cheap, but he may need to provide a discount to wind up on a winning team.
Fits: Seattle, Kansas City, Dallas

Cortland Finnegan (CB)
One of the league’s nastiest players is set to hit a market in which the available secondary options are thin. He’ll be overpaid for because of it.
Fits: Tampa Bay, Dallas, New England

Notables:
Sources are reporting that in all likelihood, Mike Wallace will return to the Steelers, and Marques Colston will return to the Saints. Stay tuned to Spotrac for all the latest signings.

Spotrac Tags: mario williams, NFL Free Agency, Peyton Manning

Wide Receivers
By far the deepest position as far as top available talent is concerned, these names are just a few of the players certain to be visiting camps this month.
Marques Colston, Vincent Jackson, Mario Manningham

Quarterbacks
Updated: ESPN’s Chris Mortensen is reporting that Peyton Manning will indeed be released by the Colts this week. This places the focus of the NFL free agency season directly to Manning and teams who can utilize/afford him. 

With the franchise tag of Drew Brees, the available quarterback draw stands to be rather average, with solid veterans who may end up as backups for the upcoming season as the prevalent names. Of course this may change with the decision of Peyton Manning.

Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn, Alex Smith, Kyle Orton, Jason Campbell

Running Backs
With a deal imminent for Arian Foster, the pick of running backs still remains top-tier, with Green-Ellis certain to draw plenty of interest for his size, durability, and nose for the end zone.
Peyton Hillis, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Michael Bush

Tight Ends
Much like the quarterback outlook for 2012, the tight end pool is loaded with soon-to-be backups. Ballard and Chandler both showed signs of success, and scoring in 2011, but neither will garner a big contract going forward.
Jake Ballard, Scott Chandler

Defensive End
Pay days are looming for available pass rushers this offseason, as the big money cities are all in the market. Outside of a Peyton Manning release, Mario Williams will remain the big ticket item.
Mario Williams, Jason Jones

Linebacker
The 25 yr old Lofton is a tackling machine, and will be a hot draw for teams looking to shore up their run defense. Spencer will leave a Dallas squad that simply needs to start over, but can contribute nicely in a new system.
Curtis Lofton, Stephen Tulloch. Anthony Spencer (franchised)

Cornerback
Brandon Carr and Carlos Rogers hit the market at the top of their value. Carr should see an offer from the Chiefs to remain prior to 13th, upping the stakes for Finnegan and Rogers.
Cortland Finnegan, Carlos Rogers, Brandon Carr

Who’s been franchise tagged in 2012?

Drew Brees (QB, Saints ) – $15.76 million
DeSean Jackson (RB, Eagles) – $9.5 million
Brent Grimes (CB, Falcons) – $10.4 million
Ray Rice (RB, Ravens) – $7.7 million
Dashon Goldson (S, 49ers ) – $6.2 million
Calais Campbell (DL, Cardinals) – $10.6 million
Mike Nugent (K, Bengals) – $2.7 million
Phil Dawson (K, Browns) – $2.7 million
Fred Davis (TE, Redskins) – $5.4 million
Tyvon Branch (S, Raiders) – $6.2 million
Matt Forte (RB, Bears)  – $7.7 million
Robert Mathis (DE,Colts) – $10.6 million (Signed a 4 year $36 million deal)
Anthony Spencer (LB, Cowboys) – $8.8 million
Wes Welker (WR,Patriots) – $9.443 million
Dwayne Bowe – $9.443 million
Michael Griffin (S, Titans) – $6.2 million
Matt Prater (K, Broncos) – $2.665 million
Steve Weatherford (P, Giants) – $2.665 million
Josh Scobee (K, Jaguars) – $2.665 million
Cliff Avril (DE, Lions) – $10.6 million
Connor Barth (K, Buccaneers) – $2.665 million

Spotrac Tags: franchise tag, nfl free agent, top available players

But with it comes the reality of quite the rollercoaster that the city of Indianapolis is about to encounter. Fresh off of a disasterous 2011 regular season, the city is the center of the universe this week as Super Bowl XLVI takes over the town, bringing with it the attention and spark the Colts couldn’t come near providing. But come Monday morning, the city will not just be reeling from a lost season, but most likely, the loss of their franchise player, their leader, their champion.

That being said, the Colts have done nothing if not tore the inside out of their administration, coaching staff, and soon to be roster. With it come new faces, new schemes, new mantras, and a fresh start for the franchise. The media, desperate for a solid insight into Peyton Manning’s status, has forced a glaring fence between the Colt’s owner Jim Irsay, and his long-time leader. It’s time now for both parties to accept the reality of this medical barrier, accept the reality of the rebuilding state of the franchise, and find a way to live harmoniously - together.

Peyton Manning’s playing legacy will most certainly be noted highest for his ability to develop a chess game between himself and his defense counterparts. No quarterback before him was as meticulous or heady when stepping to the line of scrimmage to initiate a play. No quarterback before him proved time and time again that he deserved the ability to call his plays, change his plays, and develop quirks, cadences, and body language that at times single-handedly broke receivers open. His pocket saavy, toughness, and accuracy is to be measured with legends, and the Colts thrived for over a decade because #18 was at their helm.

It’s time now for Jim Irsay to make Peyton a Colt for a life – in whatever sense the parties can agree to. With the #1 overall pick in the 2012 draft, presumably QB, Andrew Luck, it tends to make sense to have a legendary mentor such as Manning running the Quartberbacks, and eventually coordinating the offense for this franchise. His spread offense, and ability to outthink his opponents could and should translate well into a role on the staff, and the Colts should have first bid at this opportunity.

He may never wear the #18 jersey again, but to let him walk away from this franchise entirely will be the Colts biggest long-term regret.

Spotrac Tags: coach, colts, Peyton Manning

Many experts think this signing is directly related to the recent news that Victor Martinez would miss the 2012 season with a torn ACL. If this is the case, this is one heck of an impulse buy. The truth is that Fielder fits well in this model – even with Miguel Cabrera previously isntalled as the majority 1st baseman.
Cabrera is a pure hitter, and that won’t change with a positional switch (reportedly to third base), but he’s had offseason issues and shouldn’t be labeled as the face of the franchise long term. Bringing in a player like Prince secures a dominant bat to place behind Caberera, and eventually Martinez, and a model all-star to build your franchise around for many years.

Here’s the breakdown of salaries for Prince Fielder’s new contract:

• 2012: $23 million
• 2013: $23 million
• 2014: $24 million
• 2015: $24 million
• 2016: $24 million
• 2017: $24 million
• 2018: $24 million
• 2019: $24 million
• 2020: $24 million

Other Notable 2012 Tiger Salaries:

• Miguel Cabrera: $21 million
• Victor Martinez: $13 million
• Justin Verlander: $20 million