I think that was true 2-3 years ago, but isn't anymore. Replacement level C that championship contenders feel OK about using in the conference semi's and beyond are worth at least the MLE these days (having to guard Embiid, Jokic, Davis, Bam, etc.) isn't something most $5 million dollar, non rookie deal, non sweetheart veterans (Marc says :hi
can handle these days. Is Adams worth the contract he was on, obviously no. Is he worth 17 million for his age 29 and 30 seasons as the veteran on a young team and anchor of the defense when you already have two 25+ ppg scorers on the team, yes.