NBA Trade Deadline: 2020-21 Season

[PrimeMinister]

If your definition is true contender status, no. But every path is highly unlikely to yield that and the Spurs, like I'm sure every franchise in a non glamour market, would be thrilled if they could reach a tier below. It'd be unlikely they'd even reach that status, but not inconceivable.

if you think I made any assertion the spurs are a true contender, I’d re read the posts

can they make a bid for the 6 seed when they have Vassell, White, Keldon at full strength with the team as built? I think that much is abundantly clear. I’d be wary of treadmilling in that position when we are building positive momentum in the draft.

[pad300]

Given this

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/261764/Warriors-Interested-In-Trading-For-Victor-Oladipo

Do you think the warriors could be interested in a Derozan trade as an alternative? Derozan is (IMO) a better player... And possibly fits better with their trade assets.

[Dejounte]

Given this

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/261764/Warriors-Interested-In-Trading-For-Victor-Oladipo

Do you think the warriors could be interested in a Derozan trade as an alternative? Derozan is (IMO) a better player... And possibly fits better with their trade assets.

I know you didn't mention him, but if I read one more Wiseman-to-the-Spurs post I'm going to throw my phone.

[PrimeMinister]

Maybe look first at the prospects before you call it deep. It's looking like a shitty draft past the 10th.

there’s enough intriguing talent at positions of need for us that im willing for all intents and purposes to call this draft “deep” relative to previous years or the average

is it exceptional? No. But there’s talent to be found in the teens and into the 20s.

[mo7888]

Given this

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/261764/Warriors-Interested-In-Trading-For-Victor-Oladipo

Do you think the warriors could be interested in a Derozan trade as an alternative? Derozan is (IMO) a better player... And possibly fits better with their trade assets.

I don’t really want to trade ddr (I'd prefer to buy and improve now) but, that Minny 1st would be tempting.

[BackHome]

Maybe look first at the prospects before you call it deep. It's looking like a shitty draft past the 10th.

Come on DJ your forgetting our boy "KARL FRANZ WAGNER"

[PrimeMinister]

Yeah.

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1369076496237756420?s=20

[TD 21]

if you think I made any assertion the spurs are a true contender, I’d re read the posts

can they make a bid for the 6 seed when they have Vassell, White, Keldon at full strength with the team as built? I think that much is abundantly clear. I’d be wary of treadmilling in that position when we are building positive momentum in the draft.

Nah, that was in reference to your query of whether Vucevic "materially changes our team in the long run".

My assertion is he would in the hypothetical I detailed. They'd be more likely to be a 6 seed (one with a point differential indicating they're legit) and a chance to win a round if they received a favorable matchup (non L.A. team).

[PrimeMinister]

Nah, that was in reference to your query of whether Vucevic "materially changes our team in the long run".

My assertion is he would in the hypothetical I detailed. They'd be more likely to be a 6 seed (one with a point differential indicating they're legit) and a chance to win a round if they received a favorable matchup (non L.A. team).

Only thing I want to say here because I think for the most part we are on the same page- with point diff and some of the net rating and on/off stats, I kinda look at the team from pre-Jakob and post-Jakob lens. The last game LA started on 2/1 was the grizzlies drubbing where we dropped 31 points in one game. Since then they’ve at least had a positive point differential at +2.1 per game and that includes games where the rotation was decimated by covid absences.

[cd98]

Due diligence, nothing more. Spurs probably just seeing what the cost is. The guy is a good player, no doubt. But he's 30 and he can't lift his team to contention, so why trade young talent for a guy that is at best a 2 on a championship team? At 30, you will be in a rush to surround him with talent and no guarantee that you can get the one to make it worth acquiring him as your number two. My guess is the Spurs were looking to see what they could get for as little as they wanted to give up. But asking for multiple young players and draft picks for that dude? Nope. Bigs aren't that important and I'd rather just see what we have with Luka before I trade for a duplicative big man that is 30.

[8sy21vd]

Mills, Gay and Walker for Vucevic. They get a young athletic prospect on his rookie deal and get cap relief with expiring deals.

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y9kkeqrw

[gospursgojas]

Yeah.

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1369076496237756420?s=20

This should close the thread. No way spurs are giving up a haul for Vuj. All y’all’s trades that include spurs trash for someone who Orlando apparently thinks is a an All NBAer were never gonna work.

[Degoat]

I don’t think Jeff Garcia is much of a credible source lol he’s just throwing stuff out there, nobody expects the spurs to trade either White or Murray

[Robz4000]

I don’t think Jeff Garcia is much of a credible source lol he’s just throwing stuff out there, nobody expects the spurs to trade either White or Murray

The way this FO has operated the past few years outside their ability to draft, other teams prolly think they can get Murray and White for a conditional 2nd rounder.

[JuneJive]

Lol @ trading for Vooch.

No more treadmill players.

[gambit1990]

Lol @ trading for Vooch.

No more treadmill players.
he could be an important piece on a championship team tbh. also isn't a diva. great contract too.

would be great to start the retooling process since making the playoffs is important to the spurs.

[KingKev]

This should close the thread. No way spurs are giving up a haul for Vuj. All y’all’s trades that include spurs trash for someone who Orlando apparently thinks is a an All NBAer were never gonna work.

lol Murray is better than their entire roster. This rumour is bullshit. We all have our panties in a bunch with excitement but lets be real; when was the last time the Spurs leaked interest in a player and something went down? Never. Especially not during the Pop era.

[PrimeMinister]

he could be an important piece on a championship team tbh. also isn't a diva. great contract too.

would be great to start the retooling process since making the playoffs is important to the spurs.

if your center is below average/borderline liability territory defensively and his name isn't Nikola Jokic, he will never be a piece on a championship team, tbh.

[gambit1990]

if your center is below average/borderline liability territory defensively and his name isn't Nikola Jokic, he will never be a piece on a championship team, tbh.
i'd start him at the 4, he's quick for his size. but also have been play the 5 at different times during the game.

vooch starting with a defensive 5.

i'm not afraid to go big like everyone else is.

[gambit1990]

would be a fan favorite in no time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DhZYSCQu5w

[gambit1990]

not like the spurs can go out there and trade for a lebron, kawhi, durant level player anyways. or have a chance at signing one.

[Mr. Body]

Sucks for Vucevic. One of the shittiest franchises in professional sports and this is the price they're setting for him.

[exstatic]

https://www.reddit.com/r/OrlandoMagic/comments/m0jhe2/with_all_the_rumors_that_vuc_is_getting_traded/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share

Magic fans apparently like our young talent, specifically Vassell...

Nope. Not for anyone on their roster.

[PrimeMinister]

i'd start him at the 4, he's quick for his size. but also have been play the 5 at different times during the game.

vooch starting with a defensive 5.

i'm not afraid to go big like everyone else is.

you’re not a serious person

[buttsR4rebounding]

Over the last 11 games the Spurs have the #1 opp fg % and the highest net fg% with a +1.7. That is the epitome of Spurs Basketball. They are not going to do something to screw that up.

[The Truth #6]

Yak resigned under the assumption he was going to be the starter and amazingly it's already happened this year. Yak may not care about touches, but he wants to start. And trading him after just resigning him would be completely out of character for the Spurs. This trade is not happening is my overwhelming thought.

[exstatic]

Yeah.

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1369076496237756420?s=20

Yeah, fuck that noise.

[KingKev]

Nope. Not for anyone on their roster.

ex preaching the truth

[Spursfanfromafar]

The Spurs' best offer for Vooch should be Aldridge, Lonnie Walker, Eubanks and rights to the forgotten Nikola Milutinov and the 2021 first round pick.

[spurraider21]

Mills, Gay and Walker for Vucevic. They get a young athletic prospect on his rookie deal and get cap relief with expiring deals.

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y9kkeqrw
this reminds me of the good old days when ST trade proposals were all "blair, bonner, neal for good player"

[ismael-robert]

Hey Dejounte how about breaking down a aldridge,gay,mills for wiseman trade

[Dverde]

I always thought Vucevic made more sense instead of Aaron Gordon. Orlando should want a bunch back. I don’t think Lonnie and a late teens pick would do it. I don’t think adding Luka would be enough either. I can’t see this happening.

[R. DeMurre]

I don't think Vucevic fits this team, but if the plan was to acquire him for DeRozan for use in another trade down the road, I'd be in favor. It looks like no one is willing to give up anything for DeRozan, but I think Vucevic + a piece brings something worthwhile in return. Obviously if you like DeRozan and want him re-signed, this doesn't apply, but I'm not in that camp.

[Mr. Body]

I don't think Vucevic fits this team, but if the plan was to acquire him for DeRozan for use in another trade down the road, I'd be in favor. It looks like no one is willing to give up anything for DeRozan, but I think Vucevic + a piece brings something worthwhile in return. Obviously if you like DeRozan and want him re-signed, this doesn't apply, but I'm not in that camp.

When do teams acquire players for trades down the road?

[r0drig0lac]

Mills, Gay and Walker for Vucevic. They get a young athletic prospect on his rookie deal and get cap relief with expiring deals.

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y9kkeqrw

funny

[gambit1990]

The Spurs' best offer for Vooch should be Aldridge, Lonnie Walker, Eubanks and rights to the forgotten Nikola Milutinov and the 2021 first round pick.
i’d do this in a heartbeat if i was the spurs.

but wouldn’t even consider it if i was the magic tbh.

[Thomas82]

Vuc, AG and Bamba are interesting pieces. First two are not without their flaws and need the right compliment at the 4/5. Lohnnie for Bamba straight up is a fair trade and a wise gamble IMO.

I would love to see what we can do with Bamba since Orlando is wasting him.

[Thomas82]

Definetely in favor of trading any or all of the expiring vets along with Lonnie for front-court upgrades.

That makes 2 of us.

[tbdog]

Why isn't Poeltl the future center?

[rankingtear]

I would love to see what we can do with Bamba since Orlando is wasting him.

Too weak to defend centers is what ORL fans are saying about him.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/m_cassembly/status/1369298191028523010?s=19

This shit sound familiar to anybody?

L M A O

Fans everywhere are the same.

[PrimeMinister]

Why isn't Poeltl the future center?

because Nikola Vucevic, a 10 year vet at age 30, with almost no playoff experience outside of 2 first round 5 game losses, and a center anchoring one of the worst defenses in basketball is the answer to us being a legit playoff team

Can some other teams GM float us as leverage so we can derail this convo now

[Seventyniner]

because Nikola Vucevic, a 10 year vet at age 30, with almost no playoff experience outside of 2 first round 5 game losses, and a center anchoring one of the worst defenses in basketball is the answer to us being a legit playoff team

Anthony Davis, as a 7 year vet at age 26, had barely more playoff success (13 total games) when he was traded to the Lakers, and the Pelicans' defense was further below league average for 5 of those 7 years in New Orleans than the Magic's is this year.

I'm not saying Vucevic is as good as AD, and I wouldn't want the Spurs to give up anything significant for him (maybe not even trade for him at all due to how it would affect the team's trajectory), but good players do get stuck in bad situations sometimes.

[PrimeMinister]

Anthony Davis, as a 7 year vet at age 26, had barely more playoff success (13 total games) when he was traded to the Lakers, and the Pelicans' defense was further below league average for 5 of those 7 years in New Orleans than the Magic's is this year.

I'm not saying Vucevic is as good as AD, and I wouldn't want the Spurs to give up anything significant for him (maybe not even trade for him at all due to how it would affect the team's trajectory), but good players do get stuck in bad situations sometimes.

AD played in the western conference. Do we need to discuss the differences here.

he was also a perennial DPOY candidate despite the surrounding issues of his team and obvious generational type talent.

to even bring him up here is speaking volumes to how punch drunk this fanbase is.

[Seventyniner]

AD played in the western conference. Do we need to discuss the differences here.

he was also a perennial DPOY candidate despite the surrounding issues of his team and obvious generational type talent.

to even bring him up here is speaking volumes to how punch drunk this fanbase is.

Again, I'm not comparing Vucevic to AD directly. I'm saying that I don't agree with using lack of playoff success as a blanket disqualifier. AD's Pelicans had poor team defense too, so using the Magic's "weak" defense this year (21st out of 30 with a DRtg worse than league average by 0.9, bad but not awful) doesn't work either.

I'd only want Vucevic on terms highly favorable to the Spurs, and the Magic will get far better offers than what I think the Spurs should be willing to give up. I don't see Vucevic as any sort of savior at all, but it was interesting to think about imo.

[Thomas82]

Too weak to defend centers is what ORL fans are saying about him.

I'll admit that I don't watch Orlando on a regular basis, but from all the times I have watched them, he's hardly even gotten a chance.

[PrimeMinister]

Again, I'm not comparing Vucevic to AD directly. I'm saying that I don't agree with using lack of playoff success as a blanket disqualifier. AD's Pelicans had poor team defense too, so using the Magic's "weak" defense this year (21st out of 30 with a DRtg worse than league average by 0.9, bad but not awful) doesn't work either.

I'd only want Vucevic on terms highly favorable to the Spurs, and the Magic will get far better offers than what I think the Spurs should be willing to give up. I don't see Vucevic as any sort of savior at all, but it was interesting to think about imo.

it’s the totality of the Magic’s team defense and Vuc’s obvious shortcomings as a defender at the most important position in basketball. One player was clearly a good to great defender on a bad team in a brutal conference and the other is a defensive liability also on a bad team, but in a historically bad conference.

I highlight his lack of playoff success in particular because of the conference he plays in, and to call into question whether or not he is even a playable center in a series against LA, Utah, GS, really any of the WC playoff teams.

not directed at you- but I’d challenge anyone reading this who is infatuated with Vuc to go look at the most played 5 man line ups for every title winning or contending team in the last 10 years and tell me what they all have in common at the center position.

[MoSpur02]

I’d rather have Aaron Gordon to play the 4 than Vucevic. Gordon & Bamba or Gordon & Aminu.

[Ocotillo]

Regarding shipping off vets with expiring deals it is important to note that just as we are noticing the cap space that will be opened up may not be as desirable as originally thought.

Teams are starting to see the coming free agent class may not be as great as one would have hoped.

[PrimeMinister]

I’d rather have Aaron Gordon to play the 4 than Vucevic. Gordon & Bamba or Gordon & Aminu.

I’d rather split time between Luka/Keldon/Lyles and whoever we draft in the first round at the 4 spot than spend any time kicking tires on a Blake griffin prototype power forward

not efficient from 3. Not a particularly good defender. Kinda meh. Why bother.

I think something more legitimate might present itself closer to the deadline, realistically I don’t see the spurs being the ones as “buyers” in the trade. We need to be getting draft capital not sending it out.

[BackHome]

I would rather bring in Nikola he would be so much cheaper. :king

[Titi Parisien]

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yawsqr3m

[The Truth #6]

DD would have to have given them a clear answer that he’s leaving for the Spurs to consider any big trades. And I don’t see his agent wanting to take the Spurs off that list of potential teams for the next contract at this point so early considering his market might not be as high as he wants.

[KingKev]

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yawsqr3m

Would love to hear your pitch!

[ace3g]

Didn't even realize he was available. Good PF/C depth

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1264902234703265794/lC3YnIYF_normal.jpg (https://twitter.com/wojespn) Adrian Wojnarowski (https://twitter.com/wojespn) (https://twitter.com/wojespn) @wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)




Free agent forward Ersan Ilyasova is signing a deal with the Utah Jazz for the rest of the season, sources tell ESPN. He's currently completing Covid testing protocol before he's cleared to sign his deal.
1:47pm · 9 Mar 2021 (https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1369374263396950027) · Twitter Web App (https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/how-to-tweet#source-labels)

[FutureMan]

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yawsqr3m

Man that would be incredible for the Spurs haha probably takes at least 5 1st round picks to get that done though

[Sugus]

you just missed the point and wrote an essay about it. Im not saying I want Vuc. I actually want Myles Turner, who’s at least as good if not better than Poeltl defensively while also being a 3-point shooter. You’re saying we don’t have enough good defenders out there, but neglecting the fact that we don’t have many consistent 3-point shooters out there either. DeRozan doesn’t really shoot 3s. Keldon % is bad and DJ shoots about 33%.

That’s why you need a stretch big, other wise teams will play you like OKC did and just pack the paint to force you into shooting jumpers. It’s not a coincidence that when Aldridge started shooting 3s last season, DeRozan had MJ like efficiency numbers cause he all of a sudden had way more room to operate. This team has plenty of players who thrive at driving to the rim, therefore you need a big who can stretch the floor. In an ideal scenario that big should of course also be mobile and a rim protector. It’s just that they are rare.

I don't think I missed your point, maybe you didn't understand my reply? I perfectly explained why there's a higher priority for the Spurs to seek out a high-volume 3pt shooting wing, than it would be for them to try to "upgrade" Poeltl with a shooting big (which you twice alluded to, in calling Jakob a bench player, when he hasn't shown that at all this season). I'm perfectly aware the Spurs lack quality, volume 3pt shooters - we disagree in that you think they HAVE to get that volume in the form of a shooting big, when it's miles easier to get that from other positions where the Spurs are also lacking (PF to be precise).

Again, you don't "need" a stretch big. Not necessarily, and assuming it's so because of this current iteration of the Spurs would be better with a shooting big is really narrow-sighted; in a very-possible scenario where DeRozan leaves this summer, for example, there's suddenly a crater-hole to be filled in terms of usage at the SF-PF position, that the Spurs can perfectly fill with a big wing, and compliment a starting unit featuring Poeltl. I didn't say you wanted Vucevic (or did I? I didn't re-read my post, sorry if so), just that getting a shooting big doesn't have to be the Spurs' top priority by any stretch. I'd love Myles Turner (though, like Chino, I totally disagree that he's a better defender than Jakob; blocks =/= defense), don't know what his price would be, but I'd consider him more of a "luxury" than a "necessity" at any point.

To be fair with you though, I'd love to have a bench shooting C. But getting one that's a shooter, and also a better defender than Poeltl? Like I said, you'll probably have to go find one at the top-2 of a lottery draft.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/NBArath23/status/1369365677740593161?s=19

[Sugus]

https://twitter.com/NBArath23/status/1369365677740593161?s=19

Always nice to see recognition for Jakob "worse than Drummond" Poeltl. I hope he locks himself up this off-season and works on his FT shooting, it's really the only thing stopping him from being able to close out every game as a defensive stopper.

Btw, when do the Spurs play again, D? I have no idea what the schedule is moving forward...

[Dejounte]

Always nice to see recognition for Jakob "worse than Drummond" Poeltl. I hope he locks himself up this off-season and works on his FT shooting, it's really the only thing stopping him from being able to close out every game as a defensive stopper.

Btw, when do the Spurs play again, D? I have no idea what the schedule is moving forward...

Tomorrow

We should get an injury report tonight...

[TD 21]

it’s the totality of the Magic’s team defense and Vuc’s obvious shortcomings as a defender at the most important position in basketball. One player was clearly a good to great defender on a bad team in a brutal conference and the other is a defensive liability also on a bad team, but in a historically bad conference.

I highlight his lack of playoff success in particular because of the conference he plays in, and to call into question whether or not he is even a playable center in a series against LA, Utah, GS, really any of the WC playoff teams.

not directed at you- but I’d challenge anyone reading this who is infatuated with Vuc to go look at the most played 5 man line ups for every title winning or contending team in the last 10 years and tell me what they all have in common at the center position.

Context: The Magic haven't had, barely had or had gimpy versions of a cadre of other elite-neutral defenders (Isaac, Gordon, Fultz, Aminu, Okeke, Carter-Williams). The previous two seasons, they were 10th and 8th defensively.

He's not a good defender, but he's proven to be good enough that with enough surrounding defensive talent, a quality defense can be built around him.

In terms of lack of playoff success, what was he supposed to do with the poor offensive talent he's played with? The fact that he led them to two playoff appearances is impressive, even if it is the East.

Your final comment is fair, but people making him out to be some empty calories type are off base.

[R. DeMurre]

When do teams acquire players for trades down the road?

The Cavs did it this year with Drummond.

[R. DeMurre]

https://twitter.com/NBArath23/status/1369365677740593161?s=19

You've been pretty big on advanced stats lately.

[Dejounte]

You've been pretty big on advanced stats lately.

You know that time I tagged you in that tweet was just a joke, right? Dude, come on. I thought your response to that post knew it was as well. Disappointing.

[buttsR4rebounding]

You've been pretty big on advanced stats lately.

You gotta admit: those are some damn big advanced stats.

[Mr. Body]

The Cavs did it this year with Drummond.

They didn't acquire him this year. And that's pure speculation. They probably actually wanted him to play for them. Even if they did want to flip him, it failed spectacularly.

[R. DeMurre]

They didn't acquire him this year. And that's pure speculation. They probably actually wanted him to play for them. Even if they did want to flip him, it failed spectacularly.

It has happened a bunch of times. Trevor Ariza was traded three times in one month, Luke Ridnour was traded three times in 25 hours, just to name two.

https://www.businessinsider.com/luke-ridnour-traded-3-times-in-25-hours-2015-6
https://www.radio.com/wfan/sports/trevor-ariza-now-the-most-traded-player-in-nba-history

[R. DeMurre]

You know that time I tagged you in that tweet was just a joke, right? Dude, come on. I thought your response to that post knew it was as well. Disappointing.

:lol Sorry I disappointed you, bro. Damn, you get emotional on spurstalk.

[Dejounte]

:lol Sorry I disappointed you, bro. Damn, you get emotional on spurstalk.

That was emotional? I think people just miss out on the tone in my posts :lmao

Maybe people here are older than I realize...

[Maddog]

Always nice to see recognition for Jakob "worse than Drummond" Poeltl. I hope he locks himself up this off-season and works on his FT shooting, it's really the only thing stopping him from being able to close out every game as a defensive stopper.

Btw, when do the Spurs play again, D? I have no idea what the schedule is moving forward...

underrated part of the kawhi deal

It's basically ending up Kawhi for Poetl and Keldon (assuming DDR is gone next year- maybe more if he is traded)
When you consider Nephew was not staying and had pretty much sunk any value
Not terrible

[Seventyniner]

underrated part of the kawhi deal

It's basically ending up Kawhi for Poetl and Keldon (assuming DDR is gone next year- maybe more if he is traded)
When you consider Nephew was not staying and had pretty much sunk any value
Not terrible

3 years of DeRozan was a positive too imo. His All-NBA selection in his last year in Toronto was somewhat optimistic, but he was a borderline All-Star last year and should have been one this year.

The trade was still lopsided on paper, it was a dollar bill for a quarter and two dimes. But under the (imo reasonable) assumption that Number Two was gone no matter what, the return that the Spurs got wasn't bad at all.

[cd98]

3 years of DeRozan was a positive too imo. His All-NBA selection in his last year in Toronto was somewhat optimistic, but he was a borderline All-Star last year and should have been one this year.

The trade was still lopsided on paper, it was a dollar bill for a quarter and two dimes. But under the (imo reasonable) assumption that Number Two was gone no matter what, the return that the Spurs got wasn't bad at all.

You could also look at it like 3 starters for one starter. Though if I was Toronto, I'd do that deal every time for one NBA championship. It'll be interesting to see if Kawhi stays with the Clippers if they flame out of the playoffs again.

[NASpurs]

For those who pay, anything Spurs related?

1369681748989149185

[PrimeMinister]

Not really part of the direct return for Kawhi- but I wonder if just having the 29 in their back pocket gave them some freedom to swing for the fences with the 19 knowing they could fall back to a safer bet a few spots down

maybe without the 29 they just take Keldon at 19. Maybe they just take Luka and there’s no Keldon. Interesting butterfly effect moment. If Luka pans out I will be shoe horning him into discussions around the Kawhi trade.

[Dejounte]

For those who pay, anything Spurs related?

1369681748989149185

Nope:

So James Harden is off the proverbial trade-deadline-season (https://theathletic.com/tag/nba-trade-talk-news-and-analysis/) list, having forced his way from Houston to Brooklyn back in mid-January and ended this season’s most high-profile superstar saga in the process. Ditto for Washington’s Bradley Beal, who has successfully convinced NBA executives that he wants to persevere in the nation’s capital until he’s old and gray.
Zach LaVine. Karl-Anthony Towns. Kristaps Porzingis. Nikola Vucevic. Everywhere you look, there are high-end players who — despite routinely winding up in the league’s rumor mill — appear unlikely to be on the move before the league’s transactional buzzer sounds on March 25.
So who, or what, is worth tracking in these next 15 days? The Boston Celtics and their most prized asset that doesn’t wear a jersey: The $28.5 million trade exception acquired in the sign-and-trade with Charlotte for Gordon Hayward last offseason, which is the largest of its kind in NBA history and is set to expire before next season. It may not seem like the sexiest of storylines, but this fork-in-the-road moment for Celtics GM Danny Ainge and Co. could have a major ripple effect on the power dynamics in the East for the next few years.
As it stands, the Celtics (19-17) are as far away from the top spot in the East (five games behind Philadelphia) as they are the cellar dwellers (five games ahead of the lowly Cleveland Cavaliers, who are in 13th place). The trade exception, of course, allows the Celtics to trade for players without sending out salaries to match. Translation: Another quality piece could be added to the Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kemba Walker and Marcus Smart core without losing any players who are currently part of the solution.
Yet because Boston is hard-capped at $138 million, it would need to send out approximately $9 million in salary to take back the full amount of the exception in salary. Unless, of course, the Celtics go ahead and make this move for Sacramento small forward Harrison Barnes that so many front office folks around the league believe could be coming.
Those rumblings had grown louder in recent weeks, and the decibel level was raised last week when Celtics commentator and former player Brian Scalabrine laid it all out on the team’s own telecast.


The Celtics question, then, becomes this: Is Barnes — a 28-year-old former champion who may be having the best all-around season of his nine-year-career — the kind of difference-maker who could get Boston back among the East elite? Sources say the Kings have (predictably) shifted to ‘seller’ mode in recent weeks after losing 11 of 13 games heading into the All-Star break. And Barnes, in turn, could become a perfectly pragmatic personnel choice for what ails the underperforming Celtics.
Beyond the basketball part of the equation, it seems the timing of it all may be playing a pivotal part here when it comes to the Celtics’ long-term plan. Barnes, who is making $22.2 million this season, has two subsequent seasons left on his deal and is set to make “just” $18.3 million in the final year (2022-23). Walker, meanwhile, also has a deal that expires after the 2022-23 campaign (for which he’s owed a whopping $37.6 million).
Why does this matter so much? Because Brown and Tatum — the two obvious Celtics building blocks here — become free agents in 2024 and 2025, respectively. As such, a Barnes addition would dovetail nicely into a well-timed roster reset of sorts just as the loaded 2023 free agency class arrives.
Two of the league’s top five MVP candidates at present — the Sixers’ Joel Embiid and Denver’s Nikola Jokic — are the headliners of that class, which also includes Beal (if he picks up his player option for the prior season) and Porzingis (if he opts out), among others. As recruiting pitches go, the notion of Brown and Tatum finally entering their primes and in search of a third star (again) is about as good as it gets.
Whether it’s the Barnes possibility or perhaps another trade exception target that they might land, this factor appears to be front and center (Exhibit B, for example: Oklahoma City’s Al Horford, the former Celtic who has also been tied to the Celtics as a trade exception option and whose contract also ends after 2022-23). This, potentially, is how you fix the short-term problems without compromising the long-term goals.
Boston is currently 12th in offensive rating (down from fourth last season), so adding a veteran who is averaging 16.7 points (49.2 percent shooting overall, 39.2 percent from 3) and a career-high 3.6 assists per game would surely help. Boston’s defensive rating has plummeted this season — from fourth in 2019-20 to 16th — and Barnes would certainly be asked to aid that effort as well.
It’s unclear what first-year Kings general manager Monte McNair would want in return for Barnes, but it certainly doesn’t hurt that Boston has all of its first-round draft picks. What’s more, Boston has a number of young players taken in the first round or early second that it could offer (Payton Pritchard, Robert Williams, Grant Williams, Carsen Edwards, Romeo Langford and Aaron Nesmith). Those prospects, as it turns out, would fit the Sacramento timeline that is all part of the Kings’ plan (https://theathletic.com/2429382/2021/03/05/sacramento-kings-luke-walton-coach-hot-seat/) (i.e. build around 23-year-old De’Aaron Fox and 21-year-old rookie Tyrese Haliburton).
It’s safe to assume the Celtics’ young co-stars are in no mood to take a step backward anytime soon, but that they’ve accomplished so much at such a young age makes the Celtics’ internal calculus tricky here. Even without the contractual pressure that often dictates these kinds of dynamics, there is a pressure to sustain a certain level of contention that Brown and Tatum have grown accustomed to having.
When you’ve grown accustomed to East Finals appearances before even sniffing your 25th birthday, it’s tough to accept any sort of regression. Brown made that much clear just before the break.
“I don’t feel very much like an All-Star,” Brown told reporters when asked about his selection. “I think this is the most I’ve lost since I’ve been here as a Celtic. We’ve got to find ways to win.”
The good news for Brown? It appears Celtics ownership, management and coach Brad Stevens feel the same way. That was evident during the Harden saga, when sources say Boston’s level of interest and involvement far surpassed what Ainge was willing to admit to when he addressed it publicly (https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/celtics/how-close-were-celtics-trading-james-harden-danny-ainge-addresses-rumors). Ironically, that deal — as opposed to a possible trade for Barnes — likely would have required Brown to be dealt.
Constant contention doesn’t come cheap, of course. If the Celtics were to make this move, their core of Tatum, Brown, Barnes, Walker and Smart would be owed a combined $124.3 million next season. By comparison, the Brooklyn Nets’ core of Harden, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and Joe Harris is owed a combined $138.7 million. You’re cutting the check to play with the big boys, but would that be enough to justify the cost? That’s what they have to decide.
Are the Clippers staying the course?

The Clippers, sources say, feel very good about their core and are likely to only pursue deals that could help them on the margins. Even with the stretch of six losses in nine games entering the break, they’re only four games back of Utah for the top spot in the West and fully intend to make a second-half surge.
More importantly for their big-picture purposes, there are strong signs that the internal chemistry and cohesion, which proved to be so problematic last season, are at an all-time high in this Kawhi Leonard-Paul George era. First-year coach Tyronn Lue certainly deserves a fair amount of credit for that key development.
In terms of the roster confidence, no one should be surprised that there’s not much desire to stray from the plan here. They have the league’s third-best offense, with Leonard playing at an MVP-caliber level and George not far behind. On the defensive end, where they’ve fallen from a fifth-place ranking last season to 15th at the moment, they have every reason to believe they can return to form.
There has been, however, one fascinating revelation on this front as it relates to three-time Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams. Though he was known to be very available in the offseason, after his on-court struggles in the bubble and the Magic City distraction in Atlanta (https://theathletic.com/1956558/2020/07/28/its-the-magic-baby-lou-williams-was-right-about-magic-citys-wings/) complicated matters for the Clippers during their awful playoff finish, sources say that is not the case now. The combination of Williams’ leadership and much-improved play after his early-season slump have gone a long way toward re-establishing his pivotal place in their program. Williams, who is earning $8 million in the final season of his team-friendly deal, is third on the Clippers in scoring (12.5 points per game), assists (3.7) and PER (15.78).
Will Victor Oladipo be on the move (again)?

By the time the deadline comes and goes, I wouldn’t be surprised if Houston’s Victor Oladipo was the biggest name to be on the move. Per ESPN, Oladipo — who will be a free agent this offseason — turned down a two-year, $45.2 million extension offer from the Rockets after he was part of the aforementioned Harden deal.
Some rival executives saw this as a tone-setting kind of gesture for future negotiations, a way for the Rockets to make it clear that they want Oladipo to stick around — even though they didn’t expect him to accept the offer. Oladipo discussed this dynamic recently.


And yes, that does make some sense. But Oladipo will have no shortage of suitors in the offseason, with rival executives citing Miami, New York and Golden State as possibilities, to name a few. Add in that the Rockets have lost 13 consecutive games (seven of them with Oladipo on the court), and it’s not the kind of stretch that is likely to inspire a desire on either side to keep this pairing going. If first-year Rockets general manager Rafael Stone is going to avoid losing Oladipo for nothing, the time to make a move is nearing.
The Kyle Lowry dilemma

Speaking of teams heading in the wrong direction, Toronto losing four of five games before the break would seemingly up the odds of the Raptors (17-19) becoming ‘sellers.’ But when it comes to future Hall of Famer Kyle Lowry, (https://theathletic.com/2047558/2020/09/06/is-kyle-lowry-a-hall-of-famer-questions-from-the-bubble-after-another-wild-night/) there’s a strong sense around the league that the size of this final season on his deal ($30.5 million) may ultimately result in him staying put.
If you’re Raptors president Masai Ujiri, and the goal is to turn Lowry into players and/or assets that improve the prospects for a brighter future, that’s a tricky proposition to pull off while also taking on the kinds of contracts necessary for the money match. Take Philadelphia, for example, where the Sixers could bring Lowry back to his home city while also reuniting him with the front office executive who played a part in his rise during their time together in Houston, Daryl Morey.


On the court, the 34-year-old would be a wonderful complement to the Embiid/Ben Simmons/Tobias Harris core. The Harden pursuit showed how badly Morey wants another perimeter scoring threat and playmaker, and Lowry’s championship pedigree could be a valuable addition to their culture. But even if there were a late first-round pick and/or a young player like Matisse Thybulle attached to a Sixers deal, would Ujiri want to take on Danny Green ($15.3 million expiring), Mike Scott ($5 million expiring) and Seth Curry (three years, including this one, for a combined $24.5 million) to make the math work? For Morey’s part, would he be so bullish on Lowry that it would justify the loss of shooting that would come with trading away Curry (who has become an X-factor and is shooting 44.8 percent from 3) and Green?
Whether it’s that scenario or any other, the sheer number of moving financial parts likely required to get a Lowry deal done would be a hindrance. The Clippers, sources say, are another team that is known to have pondered the Lowry possibility but appears to have been dissuaded by the contract obstacle. Conversely, the financial factor has everything to do with the widespread belief that Oklahoma City’s George Hill — who is owed $9.5 million this season and has a team option worth $10 million for next season — will attract serious attention from contenders.


Why Marvin’s money matters

As Kings beat writer Jason Jones and I wrote last week, (https://theathletic.com/2429382/2021/03/05/sacramento-kings-luke-walton-coach-hot-seat/) the Kings have been open to discussing former No. 2 pick Marvin Bagley III in trade talks. But here’s the thing — again. The money matters in this sticky situation, too.
While Bagley has had a healthy and productive third season, and has even made improvements on the defensive end, the promise shown may not be enough to land him the relocation that his father publicly asked for in January (https://nba.nbcsports.com/2021/01/03/marvin-bagley-iiis-father-tweets-for-kings-to-trade-son-casts-shadow-over-teams-solid-start/). As several executives made clear, the fact that he’s owed $11.3 million next season and has a qualifying offer of $14.7 million for the 2022-23 campaign could scare off some potential suitors. Even with all the upside Bagley still shows, that’s the kind of hefty financial commitment that gives some executives a reason to pause.

[lmbebo]

I'd take a flyer on Bagley ....

[Ocotillo]

I think of Orlando moves Vuc, Boston would be the place in the best position to take him on and be helped by him. They have some assets too. I don't think the Spurs are really interested, I think it's someone name dropping to create more buzz.

[LCM]

I'd take a flyer on Bagley ....

Considering Patty and Rudy make close to that amount already, yeah I'd take a shot at Bagley too!

[Dverde]

Considering Patty and Rudy make close to that amount already, yeah I'd take a shot at Bagley too!

They’d also want picks. Spurs would never do that. Plus Patty isn’t being dumped for salary filler to a garbage team. We all know that.

[John B]

I like reading all the ST rumors, but we all know that Patty and Mills will not be moved for a salary dump. And if Aldridge wants out, it will be to a team of his choice.

[gambit1990]

la 100% wants out.

don’t really see ORL making a deal with SA because i don’t think they want scraps for vooch.

[Mr. Body]

I will laugh and laugh if Ainge blows the whole trade exemption situation. Even if he lands Harrison Barnes, he basically gets him for Hayward which is not a good trade.

[LCM]

They’d also want picks. Spurs would never do that. Plus Patty isn’t being dumped for salary filler to a garbage team. We all know that.

Sure Patty wouldn't be dumped to Sac. Rudy wouldn't either. It's the salary slot. Writers said that teams would be reluctant to deal for Bagley because of salary. If the Spurs went after him it would be in the offseason. We have two players who are expiring that have that kind of salary slot. Getting a Bagley in a Rudy salary slot, I'd take that. Now what would it take? Sac will want picks because they want to build around Fox and Haliburton. Just on salary slot purposes, I'd kick the tires on Bagley with LMA and Rudy on expiring contracts. What Sac would ask is another question.

[Seventyniner]

They’d also want picks. Spurs would never do that. Plus Patty isn’t being dumped for salary filler to a garbage team. We all know that.

It's not generally possible to "dump" expirings anyway. I believe only the Knicks and Thunder have enough room under the cap to absorb Patty outright, and the only benefit to the Spurs would be to make enough room under the tax to sign a few minimum contracts.

[gambit1990]

two weeks left...

i haven't looked at cap situations but i could imagine the spurs moving la in a non groundbreaking type move. but where does la even wanna go? just portland or miami? maybe knicks just cause they're large market / in the east?

[exstatic]

I'd take a flyer on Bagley ....

Negative. He’s a matador defender, and his dad publicly blasted the Kings on Twitter, and demanded they trade him.

No more interfering family members.

[PrimeMinister]

Try to move Aldridge or Rudy for whatever you can to acquire picks or rookie contract players. Think lower profile players like Robert Williams more than a Bagley type.

Expiring salary is ideal but short term deals for non cancer vets with the possibility of a buy out is fine to make the money work

anything else is a step in the wrong direction. If there’s no deal to be had (likely), see if we can make the Aldridge off the bench thing work and buy him out before the PO eligibility deadline if he can’t handle it.

[Excessive Egotist]

Who are the young players the Spurs could target--buy low-ish, but good minutes from them and perhaps unlock unrealized potential? Matisse Thybulle is top of my list. I don't see an obvious deal, tho. I don't think 76ers bite on Gay or Mills plus Weatherspoon for Thybulle, Reed, and two salary dumps.

Aldridge to a third team that sends a player to Philly could work, but that unknown player would have to be very good because Philly would need to send Green, Thybulle, and junk to San Antonio. I don't see that trade either.

Thybulle doesn't set the world on fire, but I like his fit coming off SA bench and allows the front office to double down on a defensive identity around Murray, White, Vassell, and Poeltl. I give even odds to Chip to make Thybulle into tolerable spot three guy.

[rjv]

of all the rumors out there, the only ones that i would put any stock into would be those that involve LMA, but there is no way that the spurs are going to take on an albatross contract in exchange and there's also no way they'd get anything of great value in terms of a player. unless the spurs can get an expiring contract and a draft pick for LMA, he probably just rides it out here in SA for the rest of the season.

[R. DeMurre]

Who are the young players the Spurs could target--buy low-ish, but good minutes from them and perhaps unlock unrealized potential? Matisse Thybulle is top of my list. I don't see an obvious deal, tho. I don't think 76ers bite on Gay or Mills plus Weatherspoon for Thybulle, Reed, and two salary dumps.

Aldridge to a third team that sends a player to Philly could work, but that unknown player would have to be very good because Philly would need to send Green, Thybulle, and junk to San Antonio. I don't see that trade either.

Thybulle doesn't set the world on fire, but I like his fit coming off SA bench and allows the front office to double down on a defensive identity around Murray, White, Vassell, and Poeltl. I give even odds to Chip to make Thybulle into tolerable spot three guy.

I love how Reed is playing in the G league and think he's worth taking a shot at. He's pretty much doing everything for that Delaware team, and might turn out to be the steal of the second round. At this point, I'd even offer Lonnie for him straight up.

[Excessive Egotist]

I wouldn't do the Walker straight up trade, but Reed is the sort of "throw in" that could convert to great value.

Someone on the board can correct me if this is mistaken, but I think we'd have to include one of our two-ways in a deal if we bring back a two-way from another team. That's why I mention Weatherspoon in the above post.

[BacktoBasics]

I love how Reed is playing in the G league and think he's worth taking a shot at. He's pretty much doing everything for that Delaware team, and might turn out to be the steal of the second round. At this point, I'd even offer Lonnie for him straight up.
These are the kind of posts that make this place unreadable.

At this point?

I mean seriously this makes no sense. You want to trade a guy who’s right at the beginning of panning out and a borderline starter that’s showing glimpses of producing for a guy who can’t crack the main roster but looks good on a G team. And you want to do this “straight up”.

Because that is somehow a net positive?

Every day is new scenario where we take two steps back for one step forward because “at this point” it’s super smart to hand over a guy we’ve developed for 3 years for a guy who looks good on a farm team.

I have to wonder if you guys would take that same approach to upgrading woman or a job.

Gonna take that McD’s manager for our soon to be graduating law office intern. Dude is killing it on those Big Macs “at this point”.

[R. DeMurre]

These are the kind of posts that make this place unreadable.

At this point?

I mean seriously this makes no sense. You want to trade a guy who’s right at the beginning of panning out and a borderline starter that’s showing glimpses of producing for a guy who can’t crack the main roster but looks good on a G team. And you want to do this “straight up”.

Because that is somehow a net positive?

Every day is new scenario where we take two steps back for one step forward because “at this point” it’s super smart to hand over a guy we’ve developed for 3 years for a guy who looks good on a farm team.

I have to wonder if you guys would take that same approach to upgrading woman or a job.

Gonna take that McD’s manager for our soon to be graduating law office intern. Dude is killing it on those Big Macs “at this point”.

Reed's in the G league to get playing time and experience, rather than sitting behind Joel Embiid, who's an MVP candidate, and Tobias Harris. It's not a matter of not being able to crack the roster. As a 6'9' switchable big with a 7'2" wingspan, Reed fills a need for the Spurs. He has the potential to be a Brandon Clarke type guy.

What makes you say Walker is "beginning to pan out?" His raw numbers are pretty mediocre, and his advanced stats are terrible. And with White, DJ, Vassell, & TJ, Walker's starting to look like the odd man out who will soon be looking for his first post-rookie contract.

Would you have found a post from a rival team last year saying they'd trade a bench guy with bad numbers for Keldon Johnson so horrifying? :lol

[exstatic]

of all the rumors out there, the only ones that i would put any stock into would be those that involve LMA, but there is no way that the spurs are going to take on an albatross contract in exchange and there's also no way they'd get anything of great value in terms of a player. unless the spurs can get an expiring contract and a draft pick for LMA, he probably just rides it out here in SA for the rest of the season.

Word on the street is that LMA will not join the team, post ASB. If he’s not traded, that would mean a buyout.

[exstatic]

I think of Orlando moves Vuc, Boston would be the place in the best position to take him on and be helped by him. They have some assets too. I don't think the Spurs are really interested, I think it's someone name dropping to create more buzz.

Boston wants Harrison Barnes. He fits their timeline, rolling off with Kamba in 2023, and fits in their TE without sending anyone back. His contract would keep them under the apron.

[BacktoBasics]

Reed's in the G league to get playing time and experience, rather than sitting behind Joel Embiid, who's an MVP candidate, and Tobias Harris. It's not a matter of not being able to crack the roster. As a 6'9' switchable big with a 7'2" wingspan, Reed fills a need for the Spurs. He has the potential to be a Brandon Clarke type guy.

What makes you say Walker is "beginning to pan out?" His raw numbers are pretty mediocre, and his advanced stats are terrible. And with White, DJ, Vassell, & TJ, Walker's starting to look like the odd man out who will soon be looking for his first post-rookie contract.

Would you have found a post from a rival team last year saying they'd trade a bench guy with bad numbers for Keldon Johnson so horrifying? :lol

I appreciate the argument and perspective but you’re undervaluing Lonnie and over valuing Reed.

Cracking the rotation actually means something and I get the value of going down for PT but at the same if you’re going to value him as an equal trade with Lonnie it’s a stretch and unnecessary leap to make a deal for a guy who hasn’t proven anything on the main stage.

That’s just not smart trading. We don’t need to take risks like that “at this point”.

[R. DeMurre]

I appreciate the argument and perspective but you’re undervaluing Lonnie and over valuing Reed.

Cracking the rotation actually means something and I get the value of going down for PT but at the same if you’re going to value him as an equal trade with Lonnie it’s a stretch and unnecessary leap to make a deal for a guy who hasn’t proven anything on the main stage.

That’s just not smart trading. We don’t need to take risks like that “at this point”.

Let's revisit in a year. Have you watched Reed play this year? Is there any chance you're over-valuing Walker?

[PrimeMinister]

Trust the process

[Big Empty]

Did i just get a notification that Aldrige is gone??

[exstatic]

Did i just get a notification that Aldrige is gone??

What media? I checked the Spur Twitter feed, and nothing.

[InRareForm]

Where is he going to go

[BacktoBasics]

Let's revisit in a year. Have you watched Reed play this year? Is there any chance you're over-valuing Walker?
Sounds good. I’m definitely not over valuing. I’m looking at production and you’re looking at potential.

[TheGreatYacht]

Would love it if PATFO brought over Shawn Long from the Australian league. He’s a guy I used to bring up on here 4 years ago as well as Christian wood and Richaun Holmes. The Sixers had an insane amount of hidden gems buried in their big men rotation back then. Two of those bigs are flourishing as starters now and Long would be as well if given the chance.

[Excessive Egotist]

Hinkie.

[bluebellmaniac]

Word on the street is that LMA will not join the team, post ASB. If he’s not traded, that would mean a buyout.

Or just left dangling until the end of the season when his contract runs out. If he's not willing to give up much on a buyout.

[BackHome]

Yeah as someone said it be cool if we are tanking but we still in the Playoff hunt if you won’t to bail on your team fine but we’re going to get something if not go on vacation and we might see you next year.

[R. DeMurre]

Sounds good. I’m definitely not over valuing. I’m looking at production and you’re looking at potential.

Can't agree with that. Reed produced big time in his last year of college, and has majorly overproduced in his g league stint. Walker had a disappointing single year at college in relation to his recruitment status/potential, and has had three underwhelming years so far in the NBA with horrible advanced stats. I think you're leaning on potential much more than I am.

Your whole "you don't trade an established developed guy for someone with mere potential" concept doesn't hold water at all. Didn't the Spurs trade a quality back up PG in George Hill for an unproven college player named Kawhi? Didn't Jerry West trade an established starting center in Vlade Divac for a 17 year old kid named Kobe who hadn't even played a minute of college ball? Using your argument, no GM would ever be justified in trading an established player for a draft pick with potential.

[gambit1990]

called it:

la 100% wants out.

[BacktoBasics]

Can't agree with that. Reed produced big time in his last year of college, and has majorly overproduced in his g league stint. Walker had a disappointing single year at college in relation to his recruitment status/potential, and has had three underwhelming years so far in the NBA with horrible advanced stats. I think you're leaning on potential much more than I am.

Your whole "you don't trade an established developed guy for someone with mere potential" concept doesn't hold water at all. Didn't the Spurs trade a quality back up PG in George Hill for an unproven college player named Kawhi? Didn't Jerry West trade an established starting center in Vlade Divac for a 17 year old kid named Kobe who hadn't even played a minute of college ball? Using your argument, no GM would ever be justified in trading an established player for a draft pick with potential.
That generalization isn’t really my stance as a whole. There are plenty of times where production for potential is a good value.

I just don’t think this is one of them.

[rjv]

Word on the street is that LMA will not join the team, post ASB. If he’s not traded, that would mean a buyout.

i'm hoping that the spurs felt pretty confident they can get something in return as opposed to be willing to engage in a buyout, but that hope depends again on what the spurs would have to take on in exchange for LMA; i have always preferred an expiring contract and draft picks.

[pookenstein]

Gay and Mills for Porz and Boban. Do it Pop!

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/450523917279436800/5iQY_PJQ_normal.jpeg
Michael Gallagher MikeSGallagher
(https://twitter.com/MikeSGallagher) 9m (https://twitter.com/MikeSGallagher/status/1370203823281561602)
PJ. Tucker not in the starting lineup. In the last 216 games he's played, he's started all of them. Hmmmmm.


https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1219317279151788033/WmKhCaKu_normal.jpg
Craig Ackerman @ca_rockets
(https://twitter.com/ca_rockets) 18m (https://twitter.com/ca_rockets/status/1370202854431019010)
PJ Tucker is NOT in the starting lineup tonight for the Rockets as they begin the 2nd half of their season in Sacramento. This is the 1st time that PJ has been available for the Rockets and not in the starting lineup since 2/6/18 at Brooklyn.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1370148921838817282?s=20

https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1370149803921924098?s=20

Wonder how this potentially effects trades, if at all?

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1344706975981047812/ncCvgyTX_normal.jpg
Michael Scotto MikeAScotto
(https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto) 10h (https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto/status/1370056439700545539)
The Kings are active with the trade deadline nearing. A look at the trade market for Harrison Barnes, Buddy Hield, Marvin Bagley and Nemanja Bjelica. Plus, Luke Walton’s future and the free agency of Richaun Holmes with @sam_amick (https://twitter.com/sam_amick/) on the @hoopshype (https://twitter.com/hoopshype/) podcast hoopshype.com/2021/03/11/pot… (https://t.co/R1XCKWpAWc)a

[look_at_g_shred]

Damn. Future spur Kawhi looking good rn

[Joseph Kony]

1370128157701980165

Not sure how credible it is but found it on a Heat board

[Degoat]

Total rabbit hole hot take but I wish some how the spurs could try to grab Kevin Knox from the Knicks. He doesn’t play much for Thibs, he’s been a bust in his nba career but he’s still only 21 years old

[TDMVPDPOY]

lma for kevin love + mcgee or allen, solves the spurs front court defense/rebound and offense

[szkorhetz]

lma for kevin love + mcgee or allen, solves the spurs front court defense/rebound and offense
We don't really know anything about Love's health, but I bet he is more done than LMA and his contract is huuuuuuuuuuuge.

[cd98]

Hate to see Gay go. I could see Spurs trading him to Heat and opening room for Luka and then sort of laying the groundwork for playing youth and being ok if Spurs don’t make the playoffs. But Gay just seems like a great mentor for the young guys on top of the fact that he still has game.

[Mr. Body]

Total rabbit hole hot take but I wish some how the spurs could try to grab Kevin Knox from the Knicks. He doesn’t play much for Thibs, he’s been a bust in his nba career but he’s still only 21 years old

Knox is a good example of a John Calipari player. There are important exceptions, but for the most part Kentucky players struggle knowing how to actually play winning basketball. He just lets them run around and win off of talent and then they struggle in the NBA compared to their talent level. It's not their fault -- it's his. One reason why Keldon's so remarkable; he's actually competetive.

[BillMc]

Hate to see Gay go. I could see Spurs trading him to Heat and opening room for Luka and then sort of laying the groundwork for playing youth and being ok if Spurs don’t make the playoffs. But Gay just seems like a great mentor for the young guys on top of the fact that he still has game.

Yeah, Rudy is a good guy. Very smart, good sense of humor, would be a nice guy to keep to mentor younger guys, but apparently there is some demand for him and it might be time to move on. It'd free up minutes for Luka and others.

[look_at_g_shred]

I'd be okay with keeping rudy on the roster if he wasn't taking minutes from Luka. I appreciate his veteran guidance but he needs to be playing only garbage time.

[SpursDynasty85]

Have a feeling Spurs want to keep around either Demar and Rudy or Patty and Rudy for a veteran presence next year and incase we strikeout in free agency. I hope the young guys really start outplaying the vets by the end of the year so PATFO can comfortably say good bye to the vets. This includes Lyle and Samanic. Poeltl already doing his job so well. Such a great value he is.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1344706975981047812/ncCvgyTX_normal.jpg
Michael Scotto MikeAScotto
(https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto) 2d (https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto/status/1369693817713156097)
Story: NBA executives and agents explain the art of the smokescreen. How, when, and why they all leak info during trade talks near the deadline and other times on @hoopshype (https://twitter.com/hoopshype/). hoopshype.com/2021/01/13/smo… (https://t.co/8nnBdIpo76)

[exstatic]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1344706975981047812/ncCvgyTX_normal.jpg
Michael Scotto MikeAScotto
(https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto) 2d (https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto/status/1369693817713156097)
Story: NBA executives and agents explain the art of the smokescreen. How, when, and why they all leak info during trade talks near the deadline and other times on @hoopshype (https://twitter.com/hoopshype/). hoopshype.com/2021/01/13/smo… (https://t.co/8nnBdIpo76)

This. Ainge saying very publicly that they don’t intend to use the TE until summer almost certainly means they’ll use it at the deadline. People here are almost always looking for attributed quotes, but those are almost always either smoke screens, or flat out lies. The most accurate shit comes from anonymous sources.

[rjv]

This. Ainge saying very publicly that they don’t intend to use the TE until summer almost certainly means they’ll use it at the deadline. People here are almost always looking for attributed quotes, but those are almost always either smoke screens, or flat out lies. The most accurate shit comes from anonymous sources.

i agree but the question becomes: will the celtics be willing to use it on LMA? they'd have to take a hit to their hard cap and what would put them over the tax threshold. i also really don't know as to whether or not bradley stevens and danny ainge see eye to eye on how to utilize their bigs.

[exstatic]

Two things have to happen to use their TE on LMA. Their TE is 28,500,000. He has to waive his kicker, because with the kicker, his salary jumps to 28,600,000. They also have to find a contract that is palatable to SA, and will be large enough to take them under the hard cap apron. Even if he waives the kicker, they cannot simply absorb the $24,000,000 into the TE, even though it fits. An alternative would be to find a 3rd team to take the apron avoiding contract, but that complicates things even more, because they’d need some sort of asset to do so.

[Mnky]

I know we need a big, but wouldn't mind getting in the Troy brown running. He is a floor general type of wing with good size and legth, and has not had much opportunity. Came out way early at 18. 21 now, could be a good grooming option for that 6th man role. Kid hussles and works hard.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://youtu.be/iptrFcBSJxw

Trade discussions start about 16 mins in.

Jackie believes Minnesota really want John Collins. Have the assets to make it happen.

[rjv]

Two things have to happen to use their TE on LMA. Their TE is 28,500,000. He has to waive his kicker, because with the kicker, his salary jumps to 28,600,000. They also have to find a contract that is palatable to SA, and will be large enough to take them under the hard cap apron. Even if he waives the kicker, they cannot simply absorb the $24,000,000 into the TE, even though it fits.

thanks for the breakdown. i wasn't aware of LMA's kicker. i wonder what the stevens and ainge think in regards to how their bigs are used and whether or not they would send us back any in exchange for LMA. they'd have to first consider LMA a nice fit. i, personally, think LMA could help boston.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/iptrFcBSJxw

Trade discussions start about 16 mins in.

Jackie believes Minnesota really want John Collins. Have the assets to make it happen.

Umm very interesting. Which insider was it that said this in the past? We need to follow that guy...

[Dejounte]

Umm very interesting. Which insider was it that said this in the past? We need to follow that guy...

Nevermind, it was just Shams:

https://twitter.com/TheAthletic/status/1367490218027339785

[exstatic]

thanks for the breakdown. i wasn't aware of LMA's kicker. i wonder what the stevens and ainge think in regards to how their bigs are used and whether or not they would send us back any in exchange for LMA. they'd have to first consider LMA a nice fit. i, personally, think LMA could help boston.

With Embiid beasting this year, teams are scrambling to find post defenders to throw at Philly in the playoffs. LMA sucks on the perimeter, but can still defend the post.

[DesignatedT]

Aldridge will most definitely waive his trade kicker if traded to a contender (Boston). How much salary would Boston need to shed (even though LMA fits within their TE)? I still think Boston makes the most sense. I guess Miami makes some sense also if they are willing to start LMA alongside Bam.

[Dverde]

I would like “future trade considerations” included when the Spurs FO gets nothing of value in return. Remember this last contract year was only partly guaranteed, but the Spurs picked up the option way before the deadline.

[Seventyniner]

Aldridge will most definitely waive his trade kicker if traded to a contender (Boston). How much salary would Boston need to shed (even though LMA fits within their TE)? I still think Boston makes the most sense. I guess Miami makes some sense also if they are willing to start LMA alongside Bam.

I don't know if it's possible to partially waive a trade kicker. If so, Aldridge could waive $100k of it and take up the whole TE himself. The Celtics only have around $19M of room available under the apron, though, so if that almost-full trade kicker thing is possible, the Celtics would have to send out at least $8.5M in salary. If the trade kicker gets fully waived, it's $5M.

If the Celtics are willing to take Aldridge for Tristan Thompson and an asset, it seems like a good deal for the Spurs (depending on the quality of the asset, of course). Thompson makes $9.7M next season but the Spurs would get a much-needed backup C, and if the Spurs want to keep DeRozan they might operate over the cap this summer, in which case Thompson's salary doesn't affect the plan.

[rjv]

Aldridge will most definitely waive his trade kicker if traded to a contender (Boston). How much salary would Boston need to shed (even though LMA fits within their TE)? I still think Boston makes the most sense. I guess Miami makes some sense also if they are willing to start LMA alongside Bam.

I thought that I had read it would be around 9 million that Boston would need to dump.

[mo7888]

Aldridge will most definitely waive his trade kicker if traded to a contender (Boston). How much salary would Boston need to shed (even though LMA fits within their TE)? I still think Boston makes the most sense. I guess Miami makes some sense also if they are willing to start LMA alongside Bam.

Boston can absorb about $19 Million without sending any salary out... so, to take LMA's contract w/o the kicker they'd need to send out around $5 million.

[bluebellmaniac]

What's the trade deadline date/time?

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/YoungNBA/status/1370533858186248198?s=19

Hate to say it, but Nephew might really ring this year.

[Ice009]

What's the trade deadline date/time?

Not sure, but not soon enough if you ask me. I don't really want to see this drag on and not get a trade done at all. I want something that will help the Spurs be a better team, either now or down the line.




Hate to say it, but Nephew might really ring this year.

Are the Clippers looking good enough this season, or are you saying that because all the other teams aren't that great?

[Leetonidas]

https://twitter.com/YoungNBA/status/1370533858186248198?s=19

Hate to say it, but Nephew might really ring this year.

They're not going to beat a healthy Lakers squad or the Nets if they get that far

Plus nephew will probably be gimped by playoff time

[Dejounte]

Not sure, but not soon enough if you ask me. I don't really want to see this drag on and not get a trade done at all. I want something that will help the Spurs be a better team, either now or down the line.



Are the Clippers looking good enough this season, or are you saying that because all the other teams aren't that great?

A lot of advanced metrics are showing that the George+Kawhi duo are the best duo in the NBA this year. That and their chemistry this year is really good. I think having good chemistry goes a long way when it comes to deep playoff runs.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/GregSylvander/status/1370495174246293510?s=19

[buttsR4rebounding]

https://twitter.com/GregSylvander/status/1370495174246293510?s=19

Maybe OKC can take a bad contract and pick up a future 1st.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1264902234703265794/lC3YnIYF_normal.jpg
Adrian Wojnarowski @wojespn

(https://twitter.com/wojespn) 2m (https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1370542098852757505)
Oklahoma City is trading guard Hamidou Diallo to Detroit for forward Svi Mykhailiuk and a 2027 second-round pick, sources tell ESPN.

https://media3.giphy.com/media/tABM19ZPcjvNRF0yuNq/giphy.gif

[R. DeMurre]

A lot of advanced metrics are showing that the George+Kawhi duo are the best duo in the NBA this year. That and their chemistry this year is really good. I think having good chemistry goes a long way when it comes to deep playoff runs.

Not to mention Batum's revitalization.

[ace3g]

Depending on severity of Joel Embiid knee injury just now, they could become trade partner for LA.

[Dejounte]

Depending on severity of Joel Embiid knee injury just now, they could become trade partner for LA.

He walked unassisted. I think he'll be fine

[exstatic]

Maybe OKC can take a bad contract and pick up a future 1st.

They have like FIFTEEN already. That’s a full NBA roster, not counting anyone they want to keep.

[Degoat]

This is off topic but Kevin porter Jr has been balling the last 2 games for the rockets

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/RooshWilliams/status/1370567137371119620?s=19

[Degoat]

A trade that hasn’t been brought up surprisingly is LMA for Al Horford+filler, terrible contract I know but he’s always seemed like a spurs kinda guy

[venitian navigator]

A trade that hasn’t been brought up surprisingly is LMA for Al Horford+filler, terrible contract I know but he’s always seemed like a spurs kinda guy

Completely agree, I was about to post something like that. I think it could be the only trade than can give us something really valuable for LMA considering OKC is full of young guys and draft picks and we would send them expiring/s (while Horford contract is still three years long) making them absolutely relevant in the next free agents market...plus Presti should be in a good relationship with our F.O.
My idea is LMA + Lyles for Horford + Roby + picks...

[Mr. Body]

San Antonio is never going to trade LMA to a non-contender like the Thunder. C'mon, guys, actually think about this shit.

That's even before mentioning his trade kicker.

[venitian navigator]

San Antonio is never going to trade LMA to a non-contender like the Thunder. C'mon, guys, actually think about this shit.

That's even before mentioning his trade kicker.

Frankly, can you tell me why? his contract was guaranteed for only 7 millions this year and after we decided to fully guarantee it he decided to give up on our team...imho we have done all and more than necessary to be considered by everyone on the planet more than even with him. Plus, giving his contract to OKC means that he will have more than a chance to agree with them for a buy out, considering Presti is in good relationship with us and his main goal should be free cap space for next season...so a buy out would be a perfect option for OKC and LMA, that will be free to choose his preferred team once bought out...

[Mr. Body]

Frankly, can you tell me why? his contract was guaranteed for only 7 millions this year and after we decided to fully guarantee it he decided to give up on our team...imho we have done all and more than necessary to be considered by everyone on the planet more than even with him. Plus, giving his contract to OKC means that he will have more than a chance to agree with them for a buy out, considering Presti is in good relationship with us and his main goal should be free cap space for next season...so a buy out would be a perfect option for OKC and LMA, that will be free to choose his preferred team once bought out...

The Spurs aren't going to do LaMarcus dirty and exile him to some team unlikely to make the playoffs. My fucking God do people not understand even the basics about what's going on? Holy fucking shit.

[Ice009]

Can't OKC can buy him out and at the same time shed a contract they may not want for three more years?

[venitian navigator]

The Spurs aren't going to do LaMarcus dirty and exile him to some team unlikely to make the playoffs. My fucking God do people not understand even the basics about what's going on? Holy fucking shit.

I think its you that don't understand the basics of what is right or wrong in a team/player relationship...what you mean by doing dirty (after guaranteeing him 18 millions) and exile him (when he'll be more than able to negotiate a buy out with OKC if he doesn't like the situation)? In your wiew we should accept any kind of request from a player that probably decided from the beginning of this season to give up on our team ? Imho we can't be so subordinate to any caprice of veteran players...and in case we are, we better change as soon as possible...

[Thomas82]

What's the trade deadline date/time?

It's the 25th (a Thursday) at 3 pm ET.

[bluebellmaniac]

It's the 25th (a Thursday) at 3 pm ET.

Thx

[Thomas82]

Thx

No problem.

[BackHome]

I am trading LMA to the team that gives me the most back bottom line. In some of these trade examples it’s us taking on a bad contract for draft picks and it frees up the other team just to buy him out and he gets to sign with who ever makes him happy.

[exstatic]

This is off topic but Kevin porter Jr has been balling the last 2 games for the rockets

Has he melted down yet in their locker room, or thrown food at teammates during a meal, yet? He’s fucking nuts.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1370727723061088257?s=19

Hmm maybe some urgency here?

[PrimeMinister]

IF La is traded to a bad team he will be bought out and the spurs will guarantee that before making a move.

[Dverde]

IF La is traded to a bad team he will be bought out and the spurs will guarantee that before making a move.

Spurs can’t guarantee another team’s roster moves. Not saying it won’t be mentioned, but no reason for a bad team to keep him anyway. Not like Spurs will make them buy him out :lol

[PrimeMinister]

Spurs can’t guarantee another team’s roster moves. Not saying it won’t be mentioned, but no reason for a bad team to keep him anyway. Not like Spurs will make them buy him out :lol

its not uncommon in these types of situations to know the team youre trading him to is only interested in cap relief and will buy him out. They can discuss that before finalizing the trade.

im sorry this is a new revelation to you.

[Mr. Body]

I think its you that don't understand the basics of what is right or wrong in a team/player relationship...what you mean by doing dirty (after guaranteeing him 18 millions) and exile him (when he'll be more than able to negotiate a buy out with OKC if he doesn't like the situation)? In your wiew we should accept any kind of request from a player that probably decided from the beginning of this season to give up on our team ? Imho we can't be so subordinate to any caprice of veteran players...and in case we are, we better change as soon as possible...

Yeah, again, you have no idea what the dynamics here are at all.

[KingKev]

its not uncommon in these types of situations to know the team youre trading him to is only interested in cap relief and will buy him out. They can discuss that before finalizing the trade.

im sorry this is a new revelation to you.

Very valid point but still won’t give us much back IMO.

[Degoat]

Has he melted down yet in their locker room, or thrown food at teammates during a meal, yet? He’s fucking nuts.

it’s coming soon lmao but I’m a firm believer spurs need to be taking shots at guys like him if they have a chance

[Leetonidas]

I think its you that don't understand the basics of what is right or wrong in a team/player relationship...what you mean by doing dirty (after guaranteeing him 18 millions) and exile him (when he'll be more than able to negotiate a buy out with OKC if he doesn't like the situation)? In your wiew we should accept any kind of request from a player that probably decided from the beginning of this season to give up on our team ? Imho we can't be so subordinate to any caprice of veteran players...and in case we are, we better change as soon as possible...

His point is the the Spurs will trade him where he wants to go because that is who they are. Maximizing the return by trading him anywhere for the best value is obviously what we all want but the point is Spurs aren't going to trade him to a dumpster fire franchise he doesn't want to go to because that is how they operate, regardless of how dumb it might be. Same thing with people on here always clamoring to trade Mills. Yeah we know they should but we also know they aren't going to and we all know why. The Spurs just don't operate like most teams do

[Mr. Body]

His point is the the Spurs will trade him where he wants to go because that is who they are. Maximizing the return by trading him anywhere for the best value is obviously what we all want but the point is Spurs aren't going to trade him to a dumpster fire franchise he doesn't want to go to because that is how they operate, regardless of how dumb it might be. Same thing with people on here always clamoring to trade Mills. Yeah we know they should but we also know they aren't going to and we all know why. The Spurs just don't operate like most teams do

It's not dumb, it's fucking common sense, which is in short supply on this site.

The Celtics absolutely fucked themselves with the way Ainge treated IT. He did everything they wanted, fought and played, and Ainge fucked him royally and now no big free agents want to go there.

And that's a premiere franchise in the NBA. Ainge fucked them because of how he fucked Thomas. If the Spurs send LMA to fucking Orlando or Washington or some other dumbass team with no prayer of the playoffs, then they're fucking themselves. Not because of Aldridge but because other players will see how they're likely to get fucked in the future.

This is so simple, I have no idea why it's a hard concept for the brainiacs on this board to understand. Holy shit.

[KingKev]

It's not dumb, it's fucking common sense, which is in short supply on this site.

The Celtics absolutely fucked themselves with the way Ainge treated IT. He did everything they wanted, fought and played, and Ainge fucked him royally and now no big free agents want to go there.

And that's a premiere franchise in the NBA. Ainge fucked them because of how he fucked Thomas. If the Spurs send LMA to fucking Orlando or Washington or some other dumbass team with no prayer of the playoffs, then they're fucking themselves. Not because of Aldridge but because other players will see how they're likely to get fucked in the future.

This is so simple, I have no idea why it's a hard concept for the brainiacs on this board to understand. Holy shit.

I think it goes both ways. Treat ppl properly but also don’t get bent over unless it is worth the pleasure. To me LMA should have accepted a bench role on a potential playoff team aka us. Embrace the role and add value where possible which as a backup 5 he could be pretty formidable. Instead it seems he wants a buyout or a trade to win now. He never carried this team and we treated him better than guys who have their jerseys in the rafters. Some players don’t need to get the royal treatment. We treated him better than his production. Also players have short memories. If we draft one elite player FAs will look at SA differently. The culture BS has gotten out of hand.

[Trueblood]

It's not dumb, it's fucking common sense, which is in short supply on this site.

The Celtics absolutely fucked themselves with the way Ainge treated IT. He did everything they wanted, fought and played, and Ainge fucked him royally and now no big free agents want to go there.

And that's a premiere franchise in the NBA. Ainge fucked them because of how he fucked Thomas. If the Spurs send LMA to fucking Orlando or Washington or some other dumbass team with no prayer of the playoffs, then they're fucking themselves. Not because of Aldridge but because other players will see how they're likely to get fucked in the future.

This is so simple, I have no idea why it's a hard concept for the brainiacs on this board to understand. Holy shit.

I agree with what you're saying in principle, but those two situations are apples and oranges. Sending LA to a non playoff team for the second half of a shortened season on an expiring contact when he's set for FA is a FAR cry from what happened to IT. I agree we want to do right by players, but besides LA can you name one FA in their prime that has come here? We've built this carefully crafted image of ourselves, but we still don't get the players we want till their well past their prime. Our culture appeals to the nba equivalent of senior citizens that are looking for a last payout and know the spurs are the suckers to give it to the. It's time to face reality that we are, in essence, the nba retirement home.

Now I'm not suggesting we go all out and destroy our image as a caring organization (I personally like that way of doing business) but we can't continue to consistently prioritize that image over team growth. There needs to be some give and take.

On a side note, your condescending tone really isn't leading to and meaningful dialog or discourse. We're all on the same side here my friend.

[exstatic]

it’s coming soon lmao but I’m a firm believer spurs need to be taking shots at guys like him if they have a chance

If the Spurs start signing knuckle heads like KPJ, I’m out. I’d rather be a borderline/middle tier playoff team with players I like to watch.

[exstatic]

His point is the the Spurs will trade him where he wants to go because that is who they are. Maximizing the return by trading him anywhere for the best value is obviously what we all want but the point is Spurs aren't going to trade him to a dumpster fire franchise he doesn't want to go to because that is how they operate, regardless of how dumb it might be. Same thing with people on here always clamoring to trade Mills. Yeah we know they should but we also know they aren't going to and we all know why. The Spurs just don't operate like most teams do

With literally weeks left on his deal, they will trade him anywhere they can get return. If it’s a dumpster fire, he can negotiate a buyout. He’s already gotten 18M that wasn’t always guaranteed this season. He can leave some on the table to get out of a bind, and go where he wants. Look at it as the Spurs fronting him 18M to take the sting out of his buyout. That’s how they looked after him.

[KingKev]

If the Spurs start signing knuckle heads like KPJ, I’m out. I’d rather be a borderline/middle tier playoff team with players I like to watch.

The right knucklehead in the right environment can make sense so it’s not as black and white for me.

[exstatic]

The right knucklehead in the right environment can make sense so it’s not as black and white for me.

Well, a lot of teams disagree with you. He was a top 10 talent in his draft class, yet dropped to #30 for just this reason. When what everyone thought would happen actually happened, he was flipped for a second. This isn’t like when he was drafted, and teams thought he might cause problems in the locker room. He HAS caused problems. As long as the PATFO culture exists, we won’t be signing any players like him. It’ll be OK, though. Guys like him tend to bust out. They think they’re a complete product, and tend to rely only on their athleticism, and don’t work on their game. They never progress past rotation player, or borderline starter, and that ceiling isn’t worth putting up with their shit. He’s already been kicked to the curb by one team, and it won’t be the last one.

[Seventyniner]

LMA for Horford + draft capital, with OC buying out LMA immediately, seems like a win/win/win. The Spurs get draft assets and a backup for Poeltl, the Thunder get salary relief and some use out of their trove of picks (which they will never be able to use all of), and LMA gets to choose where he plays.

As long as LMA is apprised of the buyout plan in advance, there would be no reason for him (or any potential free agent) to hold this against the Spurs.

[KingKev]

Well, a lot of teams disagree with you. He was a top 10 talent in his draft class, yet dropped to #30 for just this reason. When what everyone thought would happen actually happened, he was flipped for a second. This isn’t like when he was drafted, and teams thought he might cause problems in the locker room. He HAS caused problems. As long as the PATFO culture exists, we won’t be signing any players like him. It’ll be OK, though. Guys like him tend to bust out. They think they’re a complete product, and tend to rely only on their athleticism, and don’t work on their game. They never progress past rotation player, or borderline starter, and that ceiling isn’t worth putting up with their shit. He’s already been kicked to the curb by one team, and it won’t be the last one.

i’m not arguing for him specifically just saying sometimes you take a flier on a guy with a troubled past. We didn’t all grow up with two parents and food on the table . With that being said Preacher Pop can’t be everyones saviour. Low risk, high reward guys can help a team that has no clear path to NBA contention like ourselves. We are going to spend the next 20 years in mediocrity without taking some chances.

[Dverde]

LMA for Horford + draft capital, with OC buying out LMA immediately, seems like a win/win/win. The Spurs get draft assets and a backup for Poeltl, the Thunder get salary relief and some use out of their trove of picks (which they will never be able to use all of), and LMA gets to choose where he plays.

As long as LMA is apprised of the buyout plan in advance, there would be no reason for him (or any potential free agent) to hold this against the Spurs.

Horford has two more years left around 26M per year. Better be good draft capital.

[Dejounte]

Horford has two more years left around 26M per year. Better be good draft capital.

Barnes too, right? Would rather go for Barnes between the two if there was a chance.

[itzsoweezee]

I’m pretty sure LMA has a trade kicker. He’s not going anywhere he doesn’t want to go

[Degoat]

I really think the LMA will be used as a buyout for whatever team he’s get traded too

[Seventyniner]

Horford has two more years left around 26M per year. Better be good draft capital.

I agree. I'm just saying that the Thunder have so many draft assets piled up they will have to use a lot of them for something other than selecting players for themselves. They might not give up what the Spurs would want for eating those two years of Horford's deal, but I think there's a potential middle ground there. Even a late first has a lot of value to the Spurs.

[Dverde]

I agree. I'm just saying that the Thunder have so many draft assets piled up they will have to use a lot of them for something other than selecting players for themselves. They might not give up what the Spurs would want for eating those two years of Horford's deal, but I think there's a potential middle ground there. Even a late first has a lot of value to the Spurs.

OKC could buyout Horford (like Blake Griffin) and keep all their draft picks. Not like they are on the cusp of contending. Not saying it couldn’t happen, but seems unlikely to me.

[KingKev]

I’m pretty sure LMA has a trade kicker. He’s not going anywhere he doesn’t want to go

A trade kicker is just a salary markup if he gets moved. Different than a no trade clause. Wen can and should trade him anywhere we see fit but we won’t.

[exstatic]

Barnes too, right? Would rather go for Barnes between the two if there was a chance.

The difference being, with Barnes, the player capital would be going the other way. Horford is 33, and makes a lot more money. Barnes is 28, kind of at his peak.

[exstatic]

I’m pretty sure LMA has a trade kicker. He’s not going anywhere he doesn’t want to go

He’ll go anywhere that his salary and kicker will fit. The only trade he can really stop is Boston. The kicker can make things more difficult, but sometimes it’s not even an issue. I don’t think It’s even a speed bump for OKC or SAC.

[exstatic]

OKC could buyout Horford (like Blake Griffin) and keep all their draft picks. Not like they are on the cusp of contending. Not saying it couldn’t happen, but seems unlikely to me.

Horford has zero incentive to sell two years and 52M at a discount. He can gum up the works by holding a roster spot for two years, when OKC has like 15 first rounders in the next 5 years. They got paid to take his contract. It ain’t going out the door for free.

[exstatic]

OKC could buyout Horford (like Blake Griffin) and keep all their draft picks. Not like they are on the cusp of contending. Not saying it couldn’t happen, but seems unlikely to me.

Horford has zero incentive to sell two years and 52M at a discount. He can gum up the works by holding a roster spot for two years, when OKC has like 15 first rounders in the next 5 years. They got paid to take his contract. It ain’t going out the door for free.

[exstatic]

My preferences:

1. Barnes, with some asset(s) going out with LMA

2. Horford, with some asset(s) coming back

3. Wiggins, with multiple assets coming back. He’s the worst player fit of the bunch, and is owed the most money.

[KingKev]

My preferences:

1. Barnes, with some asset(s) going out with LMA

2. Horford, with some asset(s) coming back

3. Wiggins, with multiple assets coming back. He’s the worst player fit of the bunch, and is owed the most money.

I like all of this. Wiggins fills a need and makes DDR expandable if we lose him. I think the Warriors are higher on him than we think though.

[buttsR4rebounding]

I’m pretty sure LMA has a trade kicker. He’s not going anywhere he doesn’t want to go

I bet the trade kicker has already been waived. LA initiated this. You can't give a team an ultimatum to trade you and then expect to receive an additional windfall. I also suspect that the trade kicker would be on the remaining part of his contract which I think would be around $1 million.

[TD 21]

To Heat: Gay, Muscala
To Thunder: Aldridge (to be bought out), Olynyk, Harkless
To Spurs: Horford, Miller

The Thunder have so much cap space both now and going forward that they're not going to give up an asset to shed Horford's salary (they might actually be able to command a minor asset). Also, their preference would be to send him to a situation where he can at least pseudo contend for a championship, so as to uphold their reputation as a franchise that does right by their players.

From a Spurs perspective, he only makes sense in a scenario where DeRozan and Mills are being re-signed. They could start him at the four for the first 6 minutes of both halves, then alternate him and Poeltl thereafter, with Johnson moving to the bench, but still playing similar minutes and often closing . . .

Starters: Horford, DeRozan, Poeltl, White, Murray

Bench: Mills, Johnson, Walker IV, Vassell, Lyles

Deep bench: Samanic, Eubanks, Miller, Bates-Diop, Jones, Weatherspoon

[PhantomDashCam]

https://twitter.com/YahooSportsNBA/status/1370845190504742915https://twitter.com/YahooSportsNBA/status/1370845190504742915?s=20

Great to see. Like LeVert, think he's a great guy and pro.

Tin-foil hat time - and no this trade does not include LeVert.


I have a feeling with LeVert coming back, and is at or close to 100% effectiveness; I think the Pacers are a pretty formidable team in the East and will start to climb the standings as a result.

Spurs: T.J Warren, Jeremy Lamb

Pacers: LMA, Lonnie Walker

T.J Warren's status for return is uncertain, and may not be back fully healthy until next year. He still has 1 more year on his deal though, and would be decent DDR insurance should he choose to leave in FA at the end of the year.
Pacers get LMA for front court depth and playoff insurance, and also receive the mercurial Walker who may thrive in a new system/style of play.

Both teams Pace of play is eerily similar, Playing with Sabonis/Turner on the court at any one time may be appealing to LMA and the Pacers.

https://media.giphy.com/media/byYvc9meProt2/giphy.gif

[The Truth #6]

I don‘t see Presti desperate to unload Horford. He likely sees him as an asset and will wait to find someone to give him more rebuilding assets. Not saying it’s likely, but wouldn’t shock me to see him pull it off. He would want something from us.

[Ice009]

It's not dumb, it's fucking common sense, which is in short supply on this site.

The Celtics absolutely fucked themselves with the way Ainge treated IT. He did everything they wanted, fought and played, and Ainge fucked him royally and now no big free agents want to go there.

And that's a premiere franchise in the NBA. Ainge fucked them because of how he fucked Thomas. If the Spurs send LMA to fucking Orlando or Washington or some other dumbass team with no prayer of the playoffs, then they're fucking themselves. Not because of Aldridge but because other players will see how they're likely to get fucked in the future.

This is so simple, I have no idea why it's a hard concept for the brainiacs on this board to understand. Holy shit.

But if they make a trade with Orlando or Washington, why can't they trade him there if that team agrees to buy him out before the trade goes down? If the Spurs discuss that with Aldridge before going through with such a trade, and he's fine with it to help the Spurs get something for him, why can't they do a trade like that? I don't think it's as bad as you're saying it will look.

I don't think it's anywhere near as bad as the Isaiah Thomas situation with the Celtics was, in fact, I don't think you can compare the two. I hope they never get another star free agent because they really screwed that poor guy over. How they treated Isaiah Thomas is a joke. He busted his ass the whole time he was there, and he pushed through the injury to play for them in the playoffs when he was looking at getting a max contract, and it ruined his career and he lost of a lot of money. He could have just sat out. It's really inexcusable how they treated him. Nothing like that is going to happen if the Spurs trade Aldridge to a bottom feeder, especially if a buyout it agreed to before the trade goes down. I don't know why you're saying it would be a really, really bad thing.

[ismael-robert]

In this covid shortened season even if he doesn't get bought out he only has 2 months till he's a free agent and his master of his own destiny

[BackHome]

But if they make a trade with Orlando or Washington, why can't they trade him there if that team agrees to buy him out before the trade goes down? If the Spurs discuss that with Aldridge before going through with such a trade, and he's fine with it to help the Spurs get something for him, why can't they do a trade like that? I don't think it's as bad as you're saying it will look.

I don't think it's anywhere near as bad as the Isaiah Thomas thing with the Celtics. I hope they never get another star free agent. How they traded Isaiah Thomas is a joke. He busted his ass the whole time he was there, and he pushed through the injury to play for them in the playoffs when he was looking at getting a max contract and it ruined his career and he lost of a lot of money. None of that is going to happen if the Spurs trade Aldridge to a bottom feeder if a buyout it agreed to before the trade goes down.

Yeah comparing Thomas situation to LMA situation is like night and day I don't see any comparison to what Ainge did to us trying to do a trade for a player who requested it

[cjw]

I don‘t see Presti desperate to unload Horford. He likely sees him as an asset and will wait to find someone to give him more rebuilding assets. Not saying it’s likely, but wouldn’t shock me to see him pull it off. He would want something from us.

This is where I’m coming out. They’re not competing next year, so can just continue to pay Horford and then flip him as an expiring 18 months from now for a guy they actually want. By then, they’ll have a better idea of what their draft capital may bring in.

The only way I see a Horford-Aldridge deal working is if a third team comes into the mix who wants Aldridge and the Spurs get draft capital back both for Aldridge and taking on Horford’s money. Don’t think it’ll be that much though.

[rankingtear]

The only way OKC trade Horford + Picks for LMA is if they are in the running for 2 - 3 max free agents next offseason. They have 60 mil in capspace next year even with Horfords salary. Do they need 90 milliion in capspace?

[SAGirl]

Folks in this thread have basically been looking at the Spurs as sellers, but would anyone be okay with the team including this year's first with some expirings looking to buy something? Back when it looked like the Spurs were going to pick in the lottery again, it didn't make sense to trade the pick. But honestly, I'm not sure how badly the team needs a guy picked in the 20s given the youth on the squad already. I don't see them as one reasonable piece from a title or anything. But it might be possible to get a long-term fit with the young guys and then use subsequent off-seasons or trades to try to take more steps.
It depends what they are going to do with Derozan ultimately. I’d like them to be buyers for sure they need to be business savvy, look for any opportunities to grab someone with this deal. I am too casual atm to know who’s out there and would make sense but it could vary depending on whether they are looking to resign Derozan or not. Honestly it seems stupid to let Derozan sign elsewhere fir nothing in exchange so I am not sure what the Spurs are even doing with their rebuild. They tried to move him back last season and didn’t get any offers they liked and it’s hard to judge without having a plan for a rebuild anyway. If they just want to sign dejar back I’d definitely consider someone to complement this team they are very thin in the frontcourt, Gay is old and it’s shows already. He may very well be not far off from falling steeply off a cliff like LMA and Jakob is limited offensively. They need to start fishing for frontcourt talents and take a gamble on someone. I’d definitely support them being buyers. They obviously want to avoid the steep decline of a tank (and with the declining odds no need to bother as hard anyways.

The fact they want to do good by Aldridge (send him somewhere he wants limits their options though. Ultimately it seems like he will be bought out.

[PrimeMinister]

It's not dumb, it's fucking common sense, which is in short supply on this site.

The Celtics absolutely fucked themselves with the way Ainge treated IT. He did everything they wanted, fought and played, and Ainge fucked him royally and now no big free agents want to go there.

And that's a premiere franchise in the NBA. Ainge fucked them because of how he fucked Thomas. If the Spurs send LMA to fucking Orlando or Washington or some other dumbass team with no prayer of the playoffs, then they're fucking themselves. Not because of Aldridge but because other players will see how they're likely to get fucked in the future.

This is so simple, I have no idea why it's a hard concept for the brainiacs on this board to understand. Holy shit.

“Lamarcus, we’ve finalized a trade to (insert bad team)- they are buying out the remainder of the owed money on your contract and you are free to sign wherever you please”

Let me spell it out for you. This is a common thing in the NBA. The IT situation was Danny Ainge trading an injured player to an unwitting, stupid team who thought they could use him. Not a trade for an expiring contract they had no intention of playing.

youre equating this to a situation where Cleveland traded a franchise cornerstone for what they hoped to be their starting point guard going forward. You don’t understand the dynamic of a hypothetical here- which is the receiving team being a bad team only interested in shedding salary. LA’s value in this situation is not on court, it’s literally just numbers on a spread sheet.

[Degoat]

It won’t happen but the spurs really need to make a significant trade of some kind, people keep questioning pops rotations which I get, but the spurs have a complete log jam of players at the same position, we’re to guard & forward heavy

[JuneJive]

The San Antonio Spurs are not actively engaged in seeking out a trade for their best player, but that could change if both sides don’t work out an in-season extension leading up to the trade deadline. There is currently no dialogue on an extension, sources said. DeRozan is in the final year of a five-year, $139 million deal he signed in 2016. San Antonio could risk losing him in the offseason for nothing in return if an extension isn’t established and a trade doesn’t materialize.

via Chris Haynes

[Dejounte]

The San Antonio Spurs are not actively engaged in seeking out a trade for their best player, but that could change if both sides don’t work out an in-season extension leading up to the trade deadline. There is currently no dialogue on an extension, sources said. DeRozan is in the final year of a five-year, $139 million deal he signed in 2016. San Antonio could risk losing him in the offseason for nothing in return if an extension isn’t established and a trade doesn’t materialize.

via Chris Haynes

1. I didn't know they could still work out an extension during the season.
2. This tweet doesn't really say much. What a weird tweet.

[cd98]

The San Antonio Spurs are not actively engaged in seeking out a trade for their best player, but that could change if both sides don’t work out an in-season extension leading up to the trade deadline. There is currently no dialogue on an extension, sources said. DeRozan is in the final year of a five-year, $139 million deal he signed in 2016. San Antonio could risk losing him in the offseason for nothing in return if an extension isn’t established and a trade doesn’t materialize.

via Chris Haynes

Yes, I think you offer him two years at a certain amount. If he takes it, then you can hope to miss the playoffs this year and get a good lottery pick and then hopefully contend next year. If DDR says no, trade him if the right trade comes about, meaning young player(s) or first-round pick(s). Otherwise, just take the cap space. This team will lose like crazy with him gone, but that just means more lottery picks and a better chance to get a player that can help them contend again.

[stephen jackson]

Watch demar get traded before Aldridge smh

[stephen jackson]

I don’t wanna trade demar I think we can beat the jazz nuggets blazers wirh demar

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/883447001647656961/0Ykmk4ep_normal.jpg
NBA TV @NBATV
(https://twitter.com/NBATV) 1m (https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1371641466976661506)
Marvin Bagley III suffered a fractured left hand and will undergo further evaluation in the coming days.

See if that impacts them in the trade market.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/KeithSmithNBA/status/1371272274783956992?s=19

What a dumpster fire :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

[exstatic]

1. I didn't know they could still work out an extension during the season.
2. This tweet doesn't really say much. What a weird tweet.

Veterans have more latitude on extensions. Players on rookie contracts have a specific window that ends just before the season.

[exstatic]

https://twitter.com/KeithSmithNBA/status/1371272274783956992?s=19

What a dumpster fire :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

Shouldn’t be surprising. Indy gave him his first real shot at being a key franchise piece, and he forced his way out if there. Houston misread the situation. They should have tried to flip him immediately. He’s not taking that team anywhere.

[timtonymanu]

:lol All these pussy ass stars and their entitlement. God, I hate at least 95% of the league.

[Dverde]

Shouldn’t be surprising. Indy gave him his first real shot at being a key franchise piece, and he forced his way out if there. Houston misread the situation. They should have tried to flip him immediately. He’s not taking that team anywhere.

Spurs need to get him immediately. He is quite the tank commander. Demar is winning us too many games. Senile Pop thinking we are a piece from contending now.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1055508609474482176/CXMbdyYX_normal.jpg
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
(https://twitter.com/KeithSmithNBA) 21h (https://twitter.com/KeithSmithNBA/status/1371556909766078468)
The NBA trade deadline is right around the corner. Each year teams are categorized as buyers, sellers, either or neither. For @YahooSportsNBA (https://twitter.com/YahooSportsNBA/) I covered where each team is slotted 10 days out from the deadline. sports.yahoo.com/nba-buyers-and… (https://t.co/AbrpOwi8xI)

[Dverde]

Lauri Markkanen anyone? Bulls may not want to pay him. Cost is precious future draft picks.

[mo7888]

Lauri Markkanen anyone? Bulls may not want to pay him. Cost is precious future draft picks.

If I could get him for a 1st I'd be ok with it

[Mugen]

:lol All these pussy ass stars and their entitlement. God, I hate at least 95% of the league.

It's ridiculous tbh, just a garbage product the league is putting out there now because of these guys :lol

[lmbebo]

If I could get him for a 1st I'd be ok with it


Same.

I'd give up a future 1st or this years even for him.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/SFLGT/status/1371908346001956872?s=19

What a dumpster fire :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

[Dejounte]

Sorry, RC_Drunkford

No Myles Turner for you.

"The New York Knicks, L.A. Lakers, L.A. Clippers, Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans are among those who have explored whether the Pacers are willing to part with the league's leading shot-blocker, league sources tell IndyStar. "

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2021/03/16/pacers-sitting-myles-turner-shows-what-he-means-to-defense/4707895001/

"If there's a move to be made, league sources tell IndyStar, the Pacers aren't shopping Turner."

[Degoat]

Honestly, I still think he has a bright future but Wiseman hasn’t passed the eye test for me

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1371920526202056704?s=19

Health and safety protocol?

Or Health and TRADE protocol?

HmmMmMmmMMMmm....

[BacktoBasics]

If I could get him for a 1st I'd be ok with it

Absolutely worth it. I think it would cost a 1st and two significant young rotation players though.

[bluebellmaniac]

https://twitter.com/SFLGT/status/1371908346001956872?s=19

What a dumpster fire :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

What?! I thought there's been accolades all season about him being the real deal. Hadn't watched any GS games, so that's a shock.

[LeBowen]

https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1371920526202056704?s=19

Health and safety protocol?

Or Health and TRADE protocol?

HmmMmMmmMMMmm....

You're grasping for straws, we like what we have. :pop:

I fully expect no trades to be made. LMA will get waived and we won't sign another big because Drew dominated the Pistons.

Rudy will walk in the summer and Patty will get another 3 year deal.



What?! I thought there's been accolades all season about him being the real deal. Hadn't watched any GS games, so that's a shock.

Him shitting on LMA got you fooled. :lmao

[TD 21]

I'd have zero interest in Thompson or doing a favor for the Celtics and (another) for the Raptors by something like Aldridge to the Celtics, Thompson to the Raptors and Baynes plus a Celtics 2nd or two to the Spurs.

That would be so typical Spurs: More or less helping everyone and settling for Raptors sloppy seconds.

Not interested in a buyout either. There should be a trade to be made here and this is the last organization that should be giving away assets. I don't care how diminished he is or bloated his salary is; find a way to get something done like so many others have in precarious situations.

[GreekSpursfan]

Honestly, I still think he has a bright future but Wiseman hasn’t passed the eye test for me

He's a rookie in a very good environment to develop the right way. He has passed the eye test for me, rookies are up and down, he was injured, he's gonna be pretty good imo.

[JuneJive]

Not interested in a buyout either. There should be a trade to be made here and this is the last organization that should be giving away assets. I don't care how diminished he is or bloated his salary is; find a way to get something done like so many others have in precarious situations.

Huh? Asset?

What kind of value is to be got for LMA?

[buttsR4rebounding]

It won’t happen but the spurs really need to make a significant trade of some kind, people keep questioning pops rotations which I get, but the spurs have a complete log jam of players at the same position, we’re to guard & forward heavy
Keldon needs to move to the 3. He is adequate at the 4 since the option to that now seems to be Lyles who is back up level talent. KJ has not been as high energy recently. And while he does a decent job holding position on bigger players that are trying to back him down players like Grant and Porzingus just shoot over him. The line up needs an injection of height. I would love to see the Spurs move Gay so Luka can get some minutes to develop. If he can build on COVID games I think he could be exactly what the starting line up needs.

[PhantomDashCam]

What?! I thought there's been accolades all season about him being the real deal. Hadn't watched any GS games, so that's a shock.

Wiseman is and will be fine. The issue is the team has the highest payroll in the league and is on the outside looking in at the playoffs.
A little "organizational tension" as Ramona puts it, can be a good thing. You need to have people with alternate opinions to avoid group think.

The idea is, a team with as much recent success as the Warriors shouldn't be missing the playoffs two seasons in a row irrespective of player injury/turnover/inexperience. Don't know necessarily that I agree with that, but that seems to be the gist of it in GS circles. The article is quite glowing re: the Spurs actually.

[exstatic]

Lauri Markkanen anyone? Bulls may not want to pay him. Cost is precious future draft picks.

His shooting numbers are up, but damn, he seems to be a bit of a China doll. Only played 17 games so far, and never more than 68 in his 4 seasons.

[PrimeMinister]

Lauri is worth a look but man if you enjoyed the "Luka has no motor" discourse the Lauri motor discourse would take it to unimaginable levels

dude can shoot... i'll give him that.

[Dverde]

I'd have zero interest in Thompson or doing a favor for the Celtics and (another) for the Raptors by something like Aldridge to the Celtics, Thompson to the Raptors and Baynes plus a Celtics 2nd or two to the Spurs.

That would be so typical Spurs: More or less helping everyone and settling for Raptors sloppy seconds.

Not interested in a buyout either. There should be a trade to be made here and this is the last organization that should be giving away assets. I don't care how diminished he is or bloated his salary is; find a way to get something done like so many others have in precarious situations.

I’d gladly take Tristan Thompson. This team needs more rebounds. That has always been his strength.

[TD 21]

Huh? Asset?

What kind of value is to be got for LMA?

Just enough that they should be able to squeeze a minor asset out.



I’d gladly take Tristan Thompson. This team needs more rebounds. That has always been his strength.

The last thing this team needs is another non shooter. They need a stretch five.

They're 13th in defensive rebound percentage. This is the value of having guards and wings like Murray and Johnson who punch above their weight on the glass.

[PrimeMinister]

LA the player has next to no value

LA the expiring contract has some value if there is a team with the right combination of RFAs in the offseason, tax burden looming, and the desire to pursue an additional FA this summer.

Basically Cleveland dumping Kevin Love so they can pay Allen and go for John Collins and are willing to give up an unprotected first to do it. Even that scenario is a longshot. The deadline can be crazy though and maybe someone gets desperate.

[Degoat]

Tristian Thompson is a better finisher around the basketball than Jakob imo tho but Celtics ain’t trading with us

[PrimeMinister]

Tristian Thompson is a better finisher around the basketball than Jakob imo tho but Celtics ain’t trading with us

only trade I see with Boston is Danny Ainge taking a swing at Derozan in the summer, but not having the cap space to do so outright has to go the sign and trade route. Ainge has to do something with the TPE after missing on Turner and losing hayward.

Let the celtics add Demar as their missing piece, give him a 4 year deal worth 120 million, and in return spurs take timelord and some picks. Huge W.

[Dverde]

only trade I see with Boston is Danny Ainge taking a swing at Derozan in the summer, but not having the cap space to do so outright has to go the sign and trade route. Ainge has to do something with the TPE after missing on Turner and losing hayward.

Let the celtics add Demar as their missing piece, give him a 4 year deal worth 120 million, and in return spurs take timelord and some picks. Huge W.

He’d probably make the All Star team. That is obviously important to him.

[Maddog]

Tristian Thompson is a better finisher around the basketball than Jakob imo tho but Celtics ain’t trading with us
He's 30. Limited skills.
Unless the Spurs get back some reasonable assets, I really don't want them to take on older players. I definitely see LMA being bought out. I just don't think the market is there

[cjw]

If I’m PATFO, I’m not taking back just an unprotected first to absorb Love’s salary for the next two off seasons. Going to need more than that. And I don’t know that Cleveland cares enough about the next two off seasons to want to deal away more than a lottery pick.

[PrimeMinister]

If I’m PATFO, I’m not taking back just an unprotected first to absorb Love’s salary for the next two off seasons. Going to need more than that. And I don’t know that Cleveland cares enough about the next two off seasons to want to deal away more than a lottery pick.

If Cleveland called up Brian Wright and had the offer on the table to take on Love's deal for their unprotected pick this year you take it. With how they are trending its top 5 or close to it and gives you a better chance than the spurs have otherwise of drafting in the top 3.

4 years of a rookie contract+RFA for taking on 2 years of Love's deal? That expires before the next major FA class in 2023? You kidding me?

But, at the end of the day, its just a hypothetical and not likely to materialize. Cleveland ownership will have to pay tax though if they want to keep Allen and that in and of itself might be enough for them to be bailing water out of their cap obligations. Maybe you actually could get 2 firsts out of em. Point I'm trying to make is a situation like that is the only place to really extract value out of LA right now, and it's not by virtue of his on court contributions.

[DPG21920]

The top 5 in this draft is worth a ton. I’d eat any deal for one lol

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1236350351395053568/MI_PVBfC_normal.jpg
Kevin O'Connor KevinOConnorNBA
(https://twitter.com/KevinOConnorNBA) 4m (https://twitter.com/KevinOConnorNBA/status/1371999552484556801)
Sources: The Heat and Thunder are discussing a trade that’d send Trevor Ariza to Miami. OKC is seeking a second round pick for Ariza from the numerous playoff teams with interest.

[Dejounte]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1236350351395053568/MI_PVBfC_normal.jpg
Kevin O'Connor KevinOConnorNBA
(https://twitter.com/KevinOConnorNBA) 4m (https://twitter.com/KevinOConnorNBA/status/1371999552484556801)
Sources: The Heat and Thunder are discussing a trade that’d send Trevor Ariza to Miami. OKC is seeking a second round pick for Ariza from the numerous playoff teams with interest.

Really? Why? He hasn't played in a year. Dude is likely washed up.

[Mr. Body]

Has anyone been traded more than Trevor Ariza?