What does the premature Euroleague disqualification bring to CSKA as a Christmas present? Probably the departure of all their major stars: Siskauskas, Gordon, Smodis, Khryapa, Kaun and Langdon have reportedly been given a free pass to look for a new team within the next couple of weeks.
According to Spanish website solobasket.com, the management of CSKA is regarding this season as lost and in the frame of the global economic crisis, is looking to make a fresh start without the heavy contracts of their iconic players.
Having a good look at it – and keeping in mind that the management of CSKA is already planning for next season – Ramunas Siskauskas will be 33 starting the 2011-2012 season, Matjaz Smodis will be 32 with back problems and Langdon 35. Not a better opportunity to save some bucks…
On the other hand Jamont Gordon was Dule Vujosevic’ choice and saw diminished minutes upon the latter’s departure, while Viktor Khryapa and Sasha Kaun are long-term injured.
According to the same website, European powerhouses such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Panathinaikos, Olympiacos and Maccabi, are already laying eyes on CSKA’s players. Reportedly, Ramunas Siskauskas will be fought over by his ex-club, Panathinaikos and his ex-coach’s club Real Madrid, with the latter going after Trajan Langdon if Ramas lands in Athens. Moreover Sasha Kaun is reported to draw the attention of Caja Laboral, Unicaja Malaga and Maccabi Tel Aviv, who is looking to further reinforce their paint.
Smodis is enjoying the interest of Barcelona, Olympiacos, Siena and Efes as he can still offer quality minutes and Jamont Gordon could stay in the city, joining cross-town rivals Khimki or move to Spain for Unicaja.
Finally, Khryapa should be an attractive pick for most top clubs, while he could also seek a return to the NBA.
TalkBasket will keep an eye on the situation and see how it unravels.
