timvp
03-13-2012, 07:30 PM
With Thursday's NBA trade deadline fast approaching, here's a look at the top ten trade possibilities for the Spurs. However, it should be noted that the most likely trade the Spurs will be involved in is a salary dump in which they trade away James Anderson or TJ Ford plus cash in exchange for a highly protected second round pick -- with the goal of lessening their luxury tax burden.
If the Spurs look to make a trade that would actually impact the team, these are the top ten possibilities that I see that are somewhat realistic for all parties involved.
10. Ben Wallace
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3149.jpg
for James Anderson, TJ Ford and cash
Why the Pistons would do it: There's really no point of having Ben Wallace on a team looking to maximize its number of lottery balls. If Wallace wants to go to a contender for one final playoff push, the Pistons wouldn't have any reason to object. In this deal, they'd get cash and a free look at James Anderson.
Why the Spurs would do it: San Antonio could do worse than Ben Wallace as their fifth big. If their defensive-challenged bigmen get overwhelmed in the playoffs, Wallace could be counted on to -- at the very least -- not get pushed around. The future Hall of Famer played well against the Spurs earlier this season so that had to help his stock in the Spurs' eyes. Plus, the cost would be minimal.
Why it probably won't happen: Wallace hasn't talked about wanting to be traded; he's probably happy spending his final season in the place where he experienced his most success. And while his defense is still a strength, the Spurs will probably be scared off by his woefully inept offense.
9. Chris Andersen
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3598.jpg
for Matt Bonner
Why the Nuggets would do it: Denver has a ton of bigmen and trading away Chris Andersen would open up room for younger talent such as Kenneth Faried, Kosta Koufos and Timofey Mozgov. This trade would also end up saving the Nuggets in excess of $5 million. With Bonner, they could address their three-point shooting woes. As a team, the Nuggets are shooting 32.3% on threes -- their lowest mark in that category since the 2002-03 season when their record was 17-65.
Why the Spurs would do it: Going from Bonner to Andersen would be a huge upgrade defensively. Even though he's 33, he doesn't appear to have lost anything when it comes to rebounding and blocking shots. And while Andersen costs more than Bonner, his contract ending in two years makes it a moderately low risk situation.
Why it probably won't happen: The Nuggets may be able to trade Andersen for nothing, which they probably would like more than receiving Bonner. And Bonner doesn't exactly fit their up-and-down, frenetic ways. For the Spurs, besides their love for Bonner, it's unlikely they view Andersen as having the necessary "Spurs character". The added money on the books is probably something they want to avoid, especially given Andersen's iffy past.
8. Andris Biedrins
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3828.jpg
for Richard Jefferson
Why the Warriors would do it: Andris Biedrins has lost his starting spot and continues to play worse and worse. He's a shell of his former self and is barely playable at this point. If the Warriors want to move Biedrins, this is one of the few viable ways to get it done. Golden State also lacks some depth at the swingman positions, which Jefferson could help fill.
Why the Spurs would do it: Depending on what the Spurs' plans are for the future, amnestying Jefferson might not make too much sense. Instead of paying him not to play, the Spurs might instead prefer to flip him for a reclamation project like Biedrins. A few years ago, Biedrins appeared to be one of the best young centers in the league. His defense would instantly help even while the Spurs look to help him regain his confidence offensively.
Why it probably won't happen: The timing. The Spurs probably want to wait until the offseason before figuring out whether to amnesty Jefferson. And even if they wait, this trade will probably still be available. Plus, if Biedrins loses even more stock between now and the end of the season, San Antonio could ask for a draft pick to be included in such a swap. As for the Warriors, getting Jefferson is hardly enough motivation to sweeten the pot at this point.
7. DJ White
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4491.jpg
for James Anderson, TJ Ford, cash and a second round pick
Why the Bobcats would do it: If DJ White isn't in their long-term plans, the Bobcats can pocket the cash and the draft pick while getting a glimpse of Anderson's potential.
Why the Spurs would do it: White can play power forward and fits offensively due to his ability to knock down perimeter jumpers. Though he's not much of a defender or rebounder, he has reasonable upside and his skillset would likely allow him to contribute right away in a pinch.
Why it probably won't happen: The Bobcats probably won't view the second rounder as enough of a draw to let go of White … and the Spurs won't want to offer anything more. Plus, since White has an expiring contract, it could turn out to be a relatively costly short-term rental for San Antonio.
6. Jordan Hill
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4613.jpg
for James Anderson, TJ Ford and a second round pick
Why the Rockets would do it: The Rockets declined to pickup the Jordan Hill's option, so he's in the same boat as Anderson. One way or another, it makes a lot of sense for Houston to trade Hill to the highest bidder at the trade deadline.
Why the Spurs would do it: The Spurs have gotten a lot of chances to scout Hill this season and have seen the former 8th overall pick have a couple good games against Tim Duncan. Hill, though unrefined, can rebound, block some shots and play reasonably good post defense. And at 24, there is room for him to grow into something more.
Why it probably won't happen: Houston would probably want more if they are going to help out an instate rival. Anderson is especially useless to their team because their roster is stacked with mediocre talent. The Spurs won't want to give up anything more since Hill is unlikely to be ready to help come playoff time and they could lose him in the offseason.
5. Robin Lopez and Ronnie Price
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4477.jpg http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3990.jpg
for DeJuan Blair, James Anderson, TJ Ford and a second round pick
Why the Suns would do it: Robin Lopez doesn't play much for the Suns anymore; Marcin Gortat has won the starting center gig and won't lose it anytime soon. With Lopez headed to free agency, it's unlikely that the Suns will keep him. In Blair, the Suns get a cost-controlled, productive power forward who plays well in the pick-and-roll. And while most teams would get scared away by his lack of ACLs, the Suns medical staff is regarded as the best in the league and could be up for the challenge of keeping Blair upright for the next decade.
Why the Spurs would do it: Lopez is a young center who has shown a lot of ability on the defensive end of the court. He'd be an instant upgrade defensively who could theoretically pair with Bonner off the bench and allow Splitter to start next to Duncan.
Why it probably won't happen: The Suns, like most teams in the league, would probably be scared away by Blair's knees and would probably prefer a first round pick from another team. The Spurs likely don't want to shake things up this much this close to the playoffs. I doubt Ronnie Price, though supposedly a point guard, is someone the Spurs are interested in.
4. Gustavo Ayon
http://oi39.tinypic.com/2hhk680.jpg
for James Anderson, cash, a first round pick and a second round pick
Why the Hornets would do it: While Gustavo Ayon is having a good rookie season so far, flipping him for a pair of draft picks and cash could be an attractive offer for a rebuilding team that is in the midst of being sold. And as good as Ayon is, he's turning 27 in a few weeks and projects to be a solid role player rather than a building block.
Why the Spurs would do it: At one point this summer, the Spurs were reportedly interested in signing Ayon. That didn't happen, but now that he's proven he's a legit NBA player, the Mexican born bigman is likely even more attractive. The haul of picks and cash isn't too much of a gamble since Ayon appears very capable of being a plug-and-play bigman in San Antonio's rotation.
Why it probably won't happen: The Hornets aren't in any rush to trade away Ayon; he's been one of their few bright spots this season. Plus, Dell Demps and Monty Williams are looking to save their jobs. Demps can point to Ayon as a reason why he shouldn't be fired. Trading him away would make the Hornets even worse, so even if it technically might be a good deal, the current Hornets brain trust probably isn't in a position to make such a deal.
3. Luke Babbitt
for James Anderson and a first rounder
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4731.jpg
Why the Blazers would do it: Luke Babbitt is so buried on their bench that it appears unlikely he'll play anytime soon. And sending him to D-League doesn't make sense because he's proven to be too good for that level of play. If the Blazers want to open up a roster spot and add a relatively valuable asset, this is an easy way to do so.
Why the Spurs would do it: RC Buford went on record to say he's a big fan of Luke Babbitt after watching him play in summer league. And while Babbitt is definitely a SF/PF tweener, he might be tall enough (6-foot-9) and long enough (6-foot-11 wingspan) to play the stretch four in the Spurs system.
Why it probably won't happen: The Blazers are in so much turmoil right now they probably don't even know what they want to do. Plus, a late first round pick isn't as valuable to the Blazers since they routinely just purchase draft picks when it comes down to it. For the Spurs, a first round pick for Babbitt at this point is probably too much even if they like him.
2. JJ Hickson
for James Anderson, TJ Ford and a second round pick
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4481.jpg
Why the Kings would do it: JJ Hickson has been a failure on the Kings. He's been a bad fit since Day 1. He has talent but his shortcomings as a player are magnified on their team full of me-first ballers.
Why the Spurs would do it: Danny Ferry drafted JJ Hickson when he was the general manager of the Cavaliers. According to urban legend, Ferry once turned down a trade for Amare Stoudemire because he didn't want to part with Hickson. If Ferry is indeed that high on Hickson, this would be a small price to pay.
Why it probably won't happen: The Kings could possibly get more for Hickson and I doubt the Spurs would give up a first rounder for a player whose stock has plummet so much over the last year. And though Hickson still has decent long-term potential, it's unlikely he's in any condition to help the Spurs this year.
1. Omri Casspi
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4628.jpg
for James Anderson and a first round pick
Why the Cavs would do it: After acquiring him in the offseason (for JJ Hickson, ironically), the Cavs had big hopes for Omri Casspi. Unfortunately, the Israeli has been a major disappointment. After being in the starting lineup all season, the Cavs benched him earlier in the month. They may be ready to move on and could be interested in San Antonio's first rounder.
Why the Spurs would do it: Outside of Nicolas Batum, there's no player the Spurs have gone after harder in recent years than Casspi. For whatever reasons, they apparently love his game. Previously, they probably wanted him as a potential long-term fit at small forward. But even though the Spurs now have Kawhi Leonard, Casspi could fit as a stretch four since he's 6-foot-9 and a good rebounder. Plus, this could be a good chance to buy low on one of their favorite players.
Why it probably won't happen: The Cavs probably aren't ready to give up on Casspi. And like the Blazers, the Cavs are another team that doesn't value first round picks as highly as most due to their spend-happy owner. As for S.A., even if this is a good time to buy on Casspi, he doesn't really address any of their glaring needs.
If the Spurs look to make a trade that would actually impact the team, these are the top ten possibilities that I see that are somewhat realistic for all parties involved.
10. Ben Wallace
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3149.jpg
for James Anderson, TJ Ford and cash
Why the Pistons would do it: There's really no point of having Ben Wallace on a team looking to maximize its number of lottery balls. If Wallace wants to go to a contender for one final playoff push, the Pistons wouldn't have any reason to object. In this deal, they'd get cash and a free look at James Anderson.
Why the Spurs would do it: San Antonio could do worse than Ben Wallace as their fifth big. If their defensive-challenged bigmen get overwhelmed in the playoffs, Wallace could be counted on to -- at the very least -- not get pushed around. The future Hall of Famer played well against the Spurs earlier this season so that had to help his stock in the Spurs' eyes. Plus, the cost would be minimal.
Why it probably won't happen: Wallace hasn't talked about wanting to be traded; he's probably happy spending his final season in the place where he experienced his most success. And while his defense is still a strength, the Spurs will probably be scared off by his woefully inept offense.
9. Chris Andersen
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3598.jpg
for Matt Bonner
Why the Nuggets would do it: Denver has a ton of bigmen and trading away Chris Andersen would open up room for younger talent such as Kenneth Faried, Kosta Koufos and Timofey Mozgov. This trade would also end up saving the Nuggets in excess of $5 million. With Bonner, they could address their three-point shooting woes. As a team, the Nuggets are shooting 32.3% on threes -- their lowest mark in that category since the 2002-03 season when their record was 17-65.
Why the Spurs would do it: Going from Bonner to Andersen would be a huge upgrade defensively. Even though he's 33, he doesn't appear to have lost anything when it comes to rebounding and blocking shots. And while Andersen costs more than Bonner, his contract ending in two years makes it a moderately low risk situation.
Why it probably won't happen: The Nuggets may be able to trade Andersen for nothing, which they probably would like more than receiving Bonner. And Bonner doesn't exactly fit their up-and-down, frenetic ways. For the Spurs, besides their love for Bonner, it's unlikely they view Andersen as having the necessary "Spurs character". The added money on the books is probably something they want to avoid, especially given Andersen's iffy past.
8. Andris Biedrins
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3828.jpg
for Richard Jefferson
Why the Warriors would do it: Andris Biedrins has lost his starting spot and continues to play worse and worse. He's a shell of his former self and is barely playable at this point. If the Warriors want to move Biedrins, this is one of the few viable ways to get it done. Golden State also lacks some depth at the swingman positions, which Jefferson could help fill.
Why the Spurs would do it: Depending on what the Spurs' plans are for the future, amnestying Jefferson might not make too much sense. Instead of paying him not to play, the Spurs might instead prefer to flip him for a reclamation project like Biedrins. A few years ago, Biedrins appeared to be one of the best young centers in the league. His defense would instantly help even while the Spurs look to help him regain his confidence offensively.
Why it probably won't happen: The timing. The Spurs probably want to wait until the offseason before figuring out whether to amnesty Jefferson. And even if they wait, this trade will probably still be available. Plus, if Biedrins loses even more stock between now and the end of the season, San Antonio could ask for a draft pick to be included in such a swap. As for the Warriors, getting Jefferson is hardly enough motivation to sweeten the pot at this point.
7. DJ White
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4491.jpg
for James Anderson, TJ Ford, cash and a second round pick
Why the Bobcats would do it: If DJ White isn't in their long-term plans, the Bobcats can pocket the cash and the draft pick while getting a glimpse of Anderson's potential.
Why the Spurs would do it: White can play power forward and fits offensively due to his ability to knock down perimeter jumpers. Though he's not much of a defender or rebounder, he has reasonable upside and his skillset would likely allow him to contribute right away in a pinch.
Why it probably won't happen: The Bobcats probably won't view the second rounder as enough of a draw to let go of White … and the Spurs won't want to offer anything more. Plus, since White has an expiring contract, it could turn out to be a relatively costly short-term rental for San Antonio.
6. Jordan Hill
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4613.jpg
for James Anderson, TJ Ford and a second round pick
Why the Rockets would do it: The Rockets declined to pickup the Jordan Hill's option, so he's in the same boat as Anderson. One way or another, it makes a lot of sense for Houston to trade Hill to the highest bidder at the trade deadline.
Why the Spurs would do it: The Spurs have gotten a lot of chances to scout Hill this season and have seen the former 8th overall pick have a couple good games against Tim Duncan. Hill, though unrefined, can rebound, block some shots and play reasonably good post defense. And at 24, there is room for him to grow into something more.
Why it probably won't happen: Houston would probably want more if they are going to help out an instate rival. Anderson is especially useless to their team because their roster is stacked with mediocre talent. The Spurs won't want to give up anything more since Hill is unlikely to be ready to help come playoff time and they could lose him in the offseason.
5. Robin Lopez and Ronnie Price
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4477.jpg http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3990.jpg
for DeJuan Blair, James Anderson, TJ Ford and a second round pick
Why the Suns would do it: Robin Lopez doesn't play much for the Suns anymore; Marcin Gortat has won the starting center gig and won't lose it anytime soon. With Lopez headed to free agency, it's unlikely that the Suns will keep him. In Blair, the Suns get a cost-controlled, productive power forward who plays well in the pick-and-roll. And while most teams would get scared away by his lack of ACLs, the Suns medical staff is regarded as the best in the league and could be up for the challenge of keeping Blair upright for the next decade.
Why the Spurs would do it: Lopez is a young center who has shown a lot of ability on the defensive end of the court. He'd be an instant upgrade defensively who could theoretically pair with Bonner off the bench and allow Splitter to start next to Duncan.
Why it probably won't happen: The Suns, like most teams in the league, would probably be scared away by Blair's knees and would probably prefer a first round pick from another team. The Spurs likely don't want to shake things up this much this close to the playoffs. I doubt Ronnie Price, though supposedly a point guard, is someone the Spurs are interested in.
4. Gustavo Ayon
http://oi39.tinypic.com/2hhk680.jpg
for James Anderson, cash, a first round pick and a second round pick
Why the Hornets would do it: While Gustavo Ayon is having a good rookie season so far, flipping him for a pair of draft picks and cash could be an attractive offer for a rebuilding team that is in the midst of being sold. And as good as Ayon is, he's turning 27 in a few weeks and projects to be a solid role player rather than a building block.
Why the Spurs would do it: At one point this summer, the Spurs were reportedly interested in signing Ayon. That didn't happen, but now that he's proven he's a legit NBA player, the Mexican born bigman is likely even more attractive. The haul of picks and cash isn't too much of a gamble since Ayon appears very capable of being a plug-and-play bigman in San Antonio's rotation.
Why it probably won't happen: The Hornets aren't in any rush to trade away Ayon; he's been one of their few bright spots this season. Plus, Dell Demps and Monty Williams are looking to save their jobs. Demps can point to Ayon as a reason why he shouldn't be fired. Trading him away would make the Hornets even worse, so even if it technically might be a good deal, the current Hornets brain trust probably isn't in a position to make such a deal.
3. Luke Babbitt
for James Anderson and a first rounder
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4731.jpg
Why the Blazers would do it: Luke Babbitt is so buried on their bench that it appears unlikely he'll play anytime soon. And sending him to D-League doesn't make sense because he's proven to be too good for that level of play. If the Blazers want to open up a roster spot and add a relatively valuable asset, this is an easy way to do so.
Why the Spurs would do it: RC Buford went on record to say he's a big fan of Luke Babbitt after watching him play in summer league. And while Babbitt is definitely a SF/PF tweener, he might be tall enough (6-foot-9) and long enough (6-foot-11 wingspan) to play the stretch four in the Spurs system.
Why it probably won't happen: The Blazers are in so much turmoil right now they probably don't even know what they want to do. Plus, a late first round pick isn't as valuable to the Blazers since they routinely just purchase draft picks when it comes down to it. For the Spurs, a first round pick for Babbitt at this point is probably too much even if they like him.
2. JJ Hickson
for James Anderson, TJ Ford and a second round pick
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4481.jpg
Why the Kings would do it: JJ Hickson has been a failure on the Kings. He's been a bad fit since Day 1. He has talent but his shortcomings as a player are magnified on their team full of me-first ballers.
Why the Spurs would do it: Danny Ferry drafted JJ Hickson when he was the general manager of the Cavaliers. According to urban legend, Ferry once turned down a trade for Amare Stoudemire because he didn't want to part with Hickson. If Ferry is indeed that high on Hickson, this would be a small price to pay.
Why it probably won't happen: The Kings could possibly get more for Hickson and I doubt the Spurs would give up a first rounder for a player whose stock has plummet so much over the last year. And though Hickson still has decent long-term potential, it's unlikely he's in any condition to help the Spurs this year.
1. Omri Casspi
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4628.jpg
for James Anderson and a first round pick
Why the Cavs would do it: After acquiring him in the offseason (for JJ Hickson, ironically), the Cavs had big hopes for Omri Casspi. Unfortunately, the Israeli has been a major disappointment. After being in the starting lineup all season, the Cavs benched him earlier in the month. They may be ready to move on and could be interested in San Antonio's first rounder.
Why the Spurs would do it: Outside of Nicolas Batum, there's no player the Spurs have gone after harder in recent years than Casspi. For whatever reasons, they apparently love his game. Previously, they probably wanted him as a potential long-term fit at small forward. But even though the Spurs now have Kawhi Leonard, Casspi could fit as a stretch four since he's 6-foot-9 and a good rebounder. Plus, this could be a good chance to buy low on one of their favorite players.
Why it probably won't happen: The Cavs probably aren't ready to give up on Casspi. And like the Blazers, the Cavs are another team that doesn't value first round picks as highly as most due to their spend-happy owner. As for S.A., even if this is a good time to buy on Casspi, he doesn't really address any of their glaring needs.