I'd say that "burning a year" can often work in your favor unless you are in a Chicago-like situation of perennial contention and cap rotation. The player will get their big deal one year earlier on average, which can mean that you lock them up long term on a cheaper deal than you otherwise would have since they have not reached their full potential yet. This is also why I generally dislike bridge deals for players who are a close to being a "sure thing". Unless you have a GM with excellent trading skills and a willingness to flip core players for younger talent for contract reasons.
|