Okur set to leave Detroit

It looks like the Pistons are going to lose free agent Center Mehmet Okur. The Utah Jazz have offered Okur a contract believed to be worth 50 million over 5 years. Detroit will have 15 days to match the offer, beginning July 14, the first day free agents can officially sign with teams. Joe Dumars had hoped to sign Okur to a deal worth about 41 million over 7 years. What will decide whether the Pistons match the offer depends on if Rasheed Wallace resigns with Detroit. They are said to be offering Rasheed a 4 or 5 year contract worth about 10 million. If Rasheed signs with Detroit, then they won't be able to resign Okur.

If have mixed feelings about whether the Pistons should keep Okur or not. He is a good center that has a lot of upside,but I don't think he is quite worth the 50 million that the Jazz are offering him. Another problem with keeping Okur is playing time. He didn't get many minutes after they got Rasheed Wallace. That trend would continue if Rasheed comes back. Also if Okur stays, then Darko probably would get limited minutes next season. It is tough to have 3 offensively talented big men on your roster. Whether Okur stays or leaves I think Joe Dumars will make the right decision.