By Alex of NBAtipoff

With the LA Clippers “spendin’ dough” in the free agent market, I wondered: can teams that spend lots of money win titles more often than not?

The answer to this is difficult without using stats. In my mind, it really depends on the organization (for example, the Knicks, mo money, mo problems!). If Joe Dumars wants to spend money, the Detroit Pistons won’t object (same goes for San Antonio Spurs GM R.C. Buford). Is Elgin Baylor known for making the best trades and signings? No, but now it seems like he’s got something to work with if Elton Brand comes back.

So let’s use some stats

Well, let’s look back at the last couple of teams to win a title. Boston Celtics, Spurs and the Miami Heat. None of these teams had the highest payroll (as did the Knicks). The Heat ranked 10th when they won the title (spending $63 million, according to SI.com). I could not find much for the other teams, but, when you look at the Heat, it’s a good example that you don’t have to spend the most money to win it all. Note to Elgin: don’t Knick-ify your cap situation!

How long before we can think about a Clipper title?

Don’t get your hopes up. Sure, the addition of Eric Gordon is good, same goes for Baron Davis. I don’t think you can say that this is a bonafide playoff team yet (Chris Broussard says it is one, definitely). The West is looking tougher every day; this is a team that right now only looks good on paper and I don’t think they can win a title with Baron. He’s 29 and the other young guys on the team are going to take time to be title ready. I do think they could make a visit to the finals, though I’m not sure about a banner.

You think about the future of this team and it is looking better. Al Thornton is a great player, Chris Kaman is only 26 and they’ve got some other players to develop. Davis will provide veteran leadership, along with Cuttino Mobley. Looking at the rest of this team, I think bringing in more veterans is the next step. I don’t know how much cap room they will have left, but how about a run at James Posey? This guy plays tough, lock down defense and can stretch the floor. He’s perfect for a team that is looking to build a championship atmosphere.

Look on the bright side. The Clips have finally realized that being number 24 on the Forbes list of team values is simply embarrassing (the Memphis Grizzlies are in front of them!). Let’s hope the days of a lottery shoo in, boring Elton Brand show are gone!