Whenever it comes to designing a roster for the future of an organization, there inevitably comes a point in which emotion comes into play. If a player has spent significant time with an organization and played at a high level, he becomes a revered figure. However, an effective front office needs to know when to cut bait, even if it is a tad early.
Although it is an entirely different sport, the model for sustainable success is the New England Patriots. Whenever a player gets close to getting their first big contract extension or is getting close to the end of their prime, the team’s coach and general manager, Bill Belichick, never misses an opportunity to get younger and cheaper.