Let me preface this article by saying I really, really like James Mickey Mantle Posey. He's an A-10 guy, he's this year's Mr. Big Shot, he's a lockdown defender on a team built entirely on defense. I don't think the Celtics would've won the title without him.

The problem? He's 31, his market is ridiculously high right now despite the fact that he'll never be any better than he is now (and in all probability, will be worse), and there are players out there who can match his production for less money.

Last year, Eddie House and Posey were worth the Mid Level Exception. Right now, it's going to cost the Celtics at least that much just to keep him alone, and they'll have to pay him that money for at least the next four years, probably five. Posey hit some magnificent shots in the playoffs and his percentage from beyond the line and his defense were incredibly valuable. But you know what? There are a lot of guys who will get championship rings who aren't getting paid what they deserve.

In this league, you have to get value for your money. James Posey as the six-million dollar man? I don't think that's smart management for this team. Not for one year, not for four years.

I hope James gives the Celtics a discount and stays, but I don't expect him to and, quite frankly, I think he'd be a bit foolish to leave that money on the table. Like I said, he's 31, but he's not going to play this game forever and there's not many seven-figure-salary jobs out there for ex-players.

Where should the money go? I don't get paid enough to make those decisions, but I've seen too many teams get themselves deep in cap trouble by giving out long term contracts for guys the wrong side of 30 to think this is likely to turn out much different.

Even if he is an A-10 guy.