Looks like Greece is still the word for Josh Childress. Especially after the Atlanta Hawks gave him the word that he could fahgetabout a roster spot next season.
Childress is headed back to Europe for a second season of easy money, fascinating lifestyle, gyro sandwiches and bloodletting at games.
A restricted free agent, Childress negotiated with the Hawks through his reps about returning to the NBA, but talks were of a sign-and-trade nature. Team brass was so delighted with last season's mix that it is hesitant to tinker beyond the minimum, so bringing back the guy with the throwback afro was not a priority, particularly with ace sixth man Jamal Crawford now on board.
Besides, by current NBA standards, Childress is overpaid at $20 million worth of euros for three years, so the Hawks were not going to lure him back with money.
Maybe constant reminders about the dangerous settings of his games, where fan brawls are common, would have worked. The first game of the final series, in which Childress' team lost, was held up 20 minutes while spectators turned the arena into a bar room fight.
Childress, who limped through the season with a sports hernia, says he owes his team at least one more year. Good for him.
At the same time, he admits that dollars helped drive his decision. Further, it's a low-pressure basketball atmosphere that seems suited to Childress' laid-back bent.
Enjoy that souvlaki, Josh.
A restricted free agent, Childress negotiated with the Hawks through his reps about returning to the NBA, but talks were of a sign-and-trade nature. Team brass was so delighted with last season's mix that it is hesitant to tinker beyond the minimum, so bringing back the guy with the throwback afro was not a priority, particularly with ace sixth man Jamal Crawford now on board.
Besides, by current NBA standards, Childress is overpaid at $20 million worth of euros for three years, so the Hawks were not going to lure him back with money.
Maybe constant reminders about the dangerous settings of his games, where fan brawls are common, would have worked. The first game of the final series, in which Childress' team lost, was held up 20 minutes while spectators turned the arena into a bar room fight.
Childress, who limped through the season with a sports hernia, says he owes his team at least one more year. Good for him.
At the same time, he admits that dollars helped drive his decision. Further, it's a low-pressure basketball atmosphere that seems suited to Childress' laid-back bent.
Enjoy that souvlaki, Josh.
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