The parallels between the Utopia squad and the American squad are many, and similarities probably outnumber differences despite quite independent management goals and paths. Kinda weird.
Both squads have Z-named trainees at SG/SF; both have important players at PF; both squads have salaries between $285,000 - $290,000. The Utopian squad purchased a PG and C; otherwise the team is all draftees. This has resulted in phenomenal merchandise sales for the team; when combined with the full houses following a championship season, the team is making nearly $150,000 a week. i expect the gravy train to end soon, no later than the all-star break, but it was great while it lasted. Relegation is a real concern this season with the Utopia squad, a surprise. But nothing stops the necessities of training, sacrificing the best lineup possibilities for the young players' improvements. There is an outside chance of creating a NT player, albeit for a smaller country.
Rolling the dice and cutting the team salary level by selling Nagle for Boogie SG: Nagle, a SF, was out of position at SG; at least, that's how i account for his underperformance this season. This means the Americans have purchased PG, SG, and C starting-level players. Drafts have not gone well, as there are only two homegrown players, although they should be productive players. The team is in fine shape, in contrast to the struggling H2O squad, as they have on average a season more of training coming, but the Utopian squad is raking in three times the profit of the Americans, thanks to both a perfect season but also a home-grown dominated roster. i keep preaching / practicing patience, but lost income is lost income, and improvements (a winning streak!) would be appreciated.
One further similarity: both squads will have 8-man rotations. Roster spots 9 - 11 will be high quality / cheap able to provide decent minutes for blowouts and Cup games.