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I wouldn't mind picking him up as a player, but I am very much against giving him the type of money he'll probably command. Last year was obviously fantastic, with averages of 12/12/2 BPG on 53% FG in 32 MPG with 74 total games played. However, a big contract for a vet (who'll be 30 by the time next season rolls around) based on one good year is a mistake.
Prior to last year, his previous seven seasons' numbers looked more like 8/6.5/1.5 on 42% FG in 24 MPG with 65 games played per year. Guess who else gives numbers like that almost exactly -- Etan Thomas. Actually, take Etan's line from last season, replace any of Dampier's previous seasons with it, and no one would think twice of it.
That's not to say I'd let Etan stand in the way of picking up Dampier if the money was equal. It's just that considering the likely salary difference, I'd rather not bother with him. Etan will likely make the MLE as a max, whereas I'd say the MLE will be Dampier's minimum possible offer he'd consider.
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