Some teams don't want to spend money because they're saving up for a big run at LeBron. Some don't want to spend money because they're already flirting with the dreaded luxury tax threshold. And one team is the Milwaukee Bucks -- who seem to be cutting back as much as they can until the economy turns around.
They won't add salaries through trades, and they won't sign free agents, but rosters and rotations must be filled. That could mean this season's rookies will get more of a chance to contribute than in years past.
Of course, that could be a mixed blessing. This year's draft class wasn't considered to be particularly deep, and some of the most promising players will probably need a year or two of seasoning before they're playing at anything close to their full potential. But playing time goes a long way towards determining fantasy value, and it looks like these guys will get plenty of run:
Blake Griffin - This one's a hanging curve ball... Once the Clippers traded Zach Randolph to the Grizzlies, Griffin moved way up on most fantasy draft boards, and with good reason.
Tyreke Evans - Probably isn't ready to play the point just yet -- as Justin Phan rightly noted, his Summer League assist-to-turnover ratio was deplorable. But Francisco Garcia's injury will open up minutes at the two and three, where Evans will be able to contribute right away.
Jonny Flynn - We were mocking the T-Wolves for drafting 19 point guards... but suddenly, Flynn seems to be their best option to run the show. (Free agent signee Ramon Sessions might be Minnesota's starter at the two.)
Stephen Curry - He's a defensive liability... but when has that ever stopped anyone from getting minutes for Don Nelson? And let's not forget... Curry is also one of a select few Warriors that doesn't seem to be actively trying to get his coach fired.
Brandon Jennings - Milwaukee seems content to hand Jennings the reins of the offense, despite his youth and inexperience.
Terrence Williams - Has to beat out Bobby Simmons and Jarvis Hayes, which doesn't seem like that tall an order. Has struggled with his shot thus far.
Earl Clark - With Robin Lopez out (broken foot), Clark could see minutes at center behind Channing Frye.
Austin Daye - Suddenly, the Pistons appear to be a running team, which might make Daye's slight frame less of a liability.
Toney Douglas - Could wind up being Chris Duhon's primary backup. Seems to be impressing Mike D'Antoni with his energy, and has been disruptive on defense.
DeJuan Blair - Playing with a "how could you guys pass on me" chip on his shoulder, a la Gilbert Arenas. Don't know if he'll get enough minutes in a crowded frontcourt to be worth a fantasy roster spot, but his per-minute numbers in the preseason have been staggering.