The Sixers should vault forward in the East with clever Brand signing

By signing Smith at a reasonable number and retaining fellow restricted free agent Josh Childress (who has commanded a lot of interest from teams in the range of the mid-level exception), the Hawks might have enough leftover money to add another role player via free agency. Which would position them to make the playoffs for a second straight year.

TEAMS WITH THE MOST TO LOSE

1. Los Angeles Clippers -- The loss of Brand is a shocker, but let's congratulate the Clippers for making the effort. Owner Donald T. Sterling stunned the market by signing Baron Davis as a surprise free agent, in hopes of pairing him with Brand at no small price.

But now they're without Brand and Corey Maggette, who was expected to sign with the Warriors

The Clippers could try to fill Brand's position by making a run at Smith, though the Hawks have promised to match any offer. They could go after another restricted free agent like Nenad Krstic (or Iguodala of the Sixers, if they wish for revenge) or they could trade for frontcourt help.

A team led by Davis and center Chris Kaman is going to have a hard time challenging for the playoffs in the West. A week ago, the Clippers looked to be on the move; now they're back in trouble. Again.

2. Golden State Warriors -- By reportedly agreeing to terms with Maggette, at least they didn't come away empty after losing Davis to the Clippers. But Davis was their engine, a physically dominant point guard who bullied the opposition. Will restricted free agent Monta Ellis provide as much leadership on the floor? The Warriors have a lot of perimeter talent, but who will drive them? Much as the Clippers suffered a reduction in talent by losing Brand, so have the Warriors been diminished by the departure of Davis

3. Boston Celtics -- If the Celtics don't re-sign James Posey, will they be able to repeat as champions? They couldn't have won the title without him this season. It's very difficult to believe they will let him walk, giving his importance as a finishing piece to their three expensive stars. But if he were to go, they wouldn't be nearly so strong next season.