What a Trade is like for the Guys on the Court

As we talk about all of the rumors going down today and tomorrow, how teams can shed cap, and how players can fit into certain systems, sometimes people forget that these are real people, and not just pawns. 

The Association on NBATV has done an unreal job to give us an inside to an NBA season, and it got super real in 2011 when they followed the Celtics. I couldn't find a smaller cut of the video, but watch the beginning of this episode and see the blank stare of Nate Robinson and the true emotion of Kendrick Perkins after they were traded to OKC just a half a year after losing in Game 7 of the finals. 

It reminds you that while the NBA is a business, it is also very real.

-Bford

NBA Trade Deadline Buzz

3:24
NYK have sent Ronnie Brewer to OKC for a second round pick.

3:17
A. Sherrod Blakely reports Jason Collins will be included with Barbosa in the Celtics trade for Jordan Crawford

3:12
As part of the Orlando deal, Milwaukee also received Gustavo Ayon and Ish Smith.
Total trade:
To Milwaukee: JJ Redick, Ayon, and Smith
To Orlando: Deron Lamb, Tobias Harris, and Beno Udrih

3:10
Hawks Trade Anthony Morrow to Dallas for Dahntay Jones

3:08
Going to Orlando from Milwaukee is Deron Lamb, Tobias Harris, and Beno Udrih in exchange for JJ Redick.

A Second trade Orlando sent Josh McRoberts to Charlotte for Hakim Warrick

2:59
JJ Redick has been traded to the Bucks according to Woj.  More details to come on who is going to the Magic

2:55
5 minutes left, just Heard OKC has traded Eric Maynor to Portland for a trade exception.

2:03
Celtics Trade Barbosa for Jordan Crawford

2:02
Toronto receives Sebastian Telfair from Phoneix for for Hamed Haddadi

1:56
Trade for Crawford not to include Fab Melo now according to Aldridge

1:49
Miami has dealt Dexter Pittman to Memphis for a second round pick and a trade exception.  Least important trade possible but figured I'd share

1:48
The Celtics will acquire Jordan Crawford for Fab Melo according to David Aldridge.  Finally a deadline day deal!

12:08
Under 3 hours left till deadline, Clippers may be going back to reengage the Celtics in trade talks.  Kings say they won't trade Tyreke or Boogie, although Tyreke is likely gone in off season so they should consider a trade.

11:38
Marc Stein has reported that the C's are kicking the tires with Tyreke Evans.  So much for Sacramento holding still at the deadline

11:23
Woj is reporting that San Antonio is a serious contender for JJ Redick

10:45

Milwaukee, Phoenix emerging as frontrunners for Josh Smith deal, league sources tell Y! Sports. Boston still a "darkhorse," one source says.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) February 21, 2013

10:19
ESPN Chris Broussard Reports Celtics, in offering Fab Melo have targeted Wizards guard Jordan Crawford.  More if anything develops.

10:15 AM

Hawks, Bucks seriously talking on Josh Smith deal, sources tell Y! Monta Ellis, Ekpe Udoh among players discussed for Smith, Devin Harris.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) February 21, 2013

10:15AM
A lot of buzz this morning to sort thorugh, but it looks like this:
1. Atlanta is going to move Josh Smith.  Milwaukee isthe front runner with Houston as the Dark Horse.
2. JJ Redick also looks to be on the move.  Indiana and Miwaukee are being aggressive.  Woj is reporting that Orlando has secured first round picks for him, but waiting to hear best offer.
3.  Celtics are quiet, too quiet....
4. Beno Udrih may be traded from Milwaukee to Dallas, Marc Stein Reports.

8:12
We have two seperate trades to report:
1. Houston sends Marcus Morris to Phoneix for 2nd rd pick
2. Houston sends Patrick Patterson, Cole Aldrich, and Toney Douglas as well as cash to Sacramento for Thomas Robinson, Tyler Honeycut, Francisco Garcia and a future 2nd.
Ok, now we are getting somewhere.
Rapid Reaction is that Houston gets the best player, but sacrifices some depth at PF.  There team could be scary in the future.  Sacramento saves money cause they like to do that.  Phoenix i guess is a big winner giving up little for a nice rotation piece.
7:58
Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that Morris has been traded to Phoenix for a future second round pick.  He also reported Thomas Robinson was on the move.  More to come

7:18
Marcus Morris is Inactive for tonight's game, Rockets supposedly weighing options between two trades.  This would be the sixth straight year Morey makes a trade.  We will keep you updated when word drops to his destination.

6:52PM
-Pacers' GM Kevin Pritchard ADAMENTLY stating that Danny Granger is not on the trading block, per Alex Kennedy of Hoops World.

6:47 PM
-Many reports are stating(including David Aldridge) that it seems as though the Clippers are going to stay put. If so, many rumors around Bledsoe would presumably stay that way, as rumores. Also, Sports Illustrated is reporting that Brandon Jennings has been taken off the table within trade discussions.


5:12
Adrian Wojnarowski has said that the Nets have made an offer for Paul Pierce.  The offer of Humphries, Brooks, and a first was not enough to entice the C's.

5:05
Ken Berger has listed Gerald Henderson as a target for the Celtics.  The Bobcats want a first in return.  Fab Melo, Barbosa, and a 1st would likely get it done.  Could the Celtics find a way to also pry away Ramon Sessions with the value of their first round pick and include Brandon Bass in the deal? A lot of questions here, but no GM is working harder than Danny Ainge this time of year. More to come......

3:45 2/20/13
A couple updates of the latest buzz we've heard.
1. The Hornets and Warriors are discussing a possible Eric Gordon for Klay Thompson trade.  The Hornets would have to take back a bad contract in return (either Biedrins or Jefferson).
2. Celtics are offering Fab Melo in return for help at the Guard Position.  Look for Sacramento to be a possible trade partner according to Joe Kaiser at ESPN. Aaron Brooks or Jimmer could be coming back to Boston in such a scenario.
3. Derick Williams is up for grabs in Minny.  The Twolves are said to be after Paul Milsap as well.

2:33 2/20/13
The latest rumors have the league waiting for word on a Josh Smith deal.  Once/if a trade for Smith goes down, the rest of the dominoes may start to fall as well.  The latest buzz for Smith is that the Hawks are determined to move him as he is not expected to resign in the offseason and they want to acquire some pieces before he bolts.  The team that looks to have the biggest edge is the Milwaukee Bucks,  who can offer Monta Ellis as the centerpiece returning to Atlanta.  The problem is that Hawks want a young player like John Henson to be included, but the Bucks refuse to include him.  Jennings, Henson, and Sanders have been determined off limits for the Bucks.

The other big storyline is whether the Celtics will decide to blow things up and rebuild for the future or bolster the roster for a postseason run.  The ball in in your court Danny Ainge, and no one has a clue what you will do.

We will be updating any rumors we here right here on our trade deadline buzz page, check in frequently for updated.

February Trade Rumors: Josh Smith to Philadelphia

Source: Chad Ford's NBA Trade Watch

"The consensus around the league continues to be that Smith is gone, either by trade or free agency. The situation in Atlanta continues to deteriorate to the point that the Hawks seem to have little choice but to let him go now -- unless they can find a way to pry away Dwight Howard from the Lakers to play alongside his friend Smith.

The latest intel, via our own Chris Broussard, has the Nets entering the picture for Smith. The question is whether a package of Kris Humphries and MarShon Brooks is enough to make a deal. That's doubtful. The Hawks would prefer a young center.

The Spurs have been mentioned as a possible suitor, but unless they are willing to part with Kawhi Leonard (highly unlikely), they don't really have the assets.

Look for the 76ers, who have been dangling both Spencer Hawes and Evan Turner to other teams, to be a potential landing place."

Why for Philadelphia:

Josh Smith is an elite talent playing at a position of need for the 76ers. Fitting him next to Thaddeus Young and Smith would create a long athletic 3/4 combination that would cause match up problems around the league. With the emergence of Jrue Holliday, Philadelphia would be best served to surround him with as many athletic players to run the floor alongside him as possible.

If Bynum, is healthy next year and remains in Philadelphia, the Sixers would have the makings of a long athletic team that defends at an elite level and breaks out off of every miss. Should Bynum and/or Smith decide to leave Philadelphia could find themselves with a large amount of cap room to rebuild their team in any way they see fit.

Why for Atlanta:

The Hawks have been trying to move Josh Smith for a while, but have yet to get an offer that they consider worthwhile. With the new CBA changing the rules for sign and trades it becomes even more imperative that they move him before he becomes a free agent this summer.

Since, Danny Ferry took over Atlanta they have been looking to build a team with young talent and financial flexibility. Bringing back Turner for Smith would allow the Hawks to bring back a young player that could be an all star presence in Atlanta for years to come. 

Ford's rumor of moving Spencer Hawes in the deal makes sense for Philadelphia, but less so for Atlanta. Since Ferry has started remodeling the team, cap flexibility has been stressed. If they move J-Smoove taking back at least one expiring deal would be a necessity.  Including Nick Young in the deal allows the Hawks to keep some of their cap flexibility while adding young talent. A first would have to be included by the Sixers to make this feasible for Atl.

Check out the other posts in our February Trade Rumors Series:

First
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth
Seventh
Eighth
Ninth
Tenth
Eleventh 

February Trade Rumors: Brandon Jennings to Dallas

Source:

Mavs, I'm told, do have interest in Brandon Jennings and will be in mix for him if Bucks opt to make RFA-to-be available b4 Feb. 21 deadline
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 13, 2013

Mavs NOT after Josh Smith but PG clearly been big worry in Big D. Trade targets, Cuban said Monday, must be worthy of "top three" on roster
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 13, 2013

Why for Dallas:
Dallas has openly stated that they want to obtain a point guard if they are to make a deal before the deadline.  Brandon Jennings is a very good point guard who could flourish running the pick and pop with Dirk. During their 2011 title run Dallas lived off of a pick and pop with a combination of Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry/JJ Barea/Jason Kidd, all of which were adept long range shooters. Jennings would bring another long range shooter in the fold, so that Dallas could get back to its bread and butter offense.

Why for Milwaukee:
The Bucks would have trouble parting with Brandon Jennings, but this return would make his leaving more palpable. In moving Jennings for Collison they would be getting the pass first point guard that could make Monta Ellis play up to his potential again.

Shawn Marion would bring the Bucks a veteran with playoff experience. He also would give them a solid starter at what has been their weakest position all season, small forward. His defensive prowess combined with Larry Sanders and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute would vault the Bucks into an upper echelon defensive team. Milwaukee is also not a very good defensive rebounding team, bringing Marion into the fold would certainly help rectify that problem.

On top of getting Collison and Marion, the Bucks would be ecstatic to get out from under the awful contract of Drew Gooden. Moving Gooden would not only help their cap situation but it would also free up more time for John Henson and Samuel Dalembert to play.

Check out the other posts in our February Trade Rumors Series:

First
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth
Seventh
Eighth
Ninth
Tenth

February Trade Rumors: Redick to Milwaukee

It seems that every contending team in the league has inquired about J.J Redick. What is not to like about a sharp shooting guard who plays solid defense and is on an expiring contract. The last bit is very important, in the new fiscally responsible NBA, no team wants to be bogged down by long term contracts. The latest iteration of the Redick deal solves the Jazz need for a point guard, and provides Orlando with some young prospects to build around.

The connection between Redick and Milwaukee:

Weekend Dime addendum: Milwaukee now in mix for Magic's JJ Redick. Bucks, I'm told, assessing their ability to retain sharpshooter long term
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 9, 2013

To meet asking price for Redick -- expiring(s) and a future first-round pick -- Bucks naturally wanna know they can retain free agent-to-be
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 9, 2013

The Trade:

Why for Milwaukee:
Through this deal the Bucks will emerge as a contender. Statistically, Milwaukee's greatest weaknesses are  defensive rebounding, three point shooting, field goal percentage, and free throw attempts. This tells a story of a team that needs to improve offensively specifically in the way in which they score. Milwaukee has some excellent defensive players, yet their style is fast and loose (4th fastest pace in the league) with the ball instead of controlled as you would expect from a good defensive team. Simply put, Milwaukee needs a face lift and it starts by separating two shoot first point guards playing in the same back court.

Replacing Ellis in the starting lineup with Redick would force their offense to be more about executing and less about speed, a stylistic change that would help. Millsap would add a second player to their team that could execute well in the half court, as a scorer, an excellent rebounder and a superb screener. Millsap would not only help on offense but he would clean up the biggest deficiency on the defensive end, rebounding.

Having watched a lot of Bucks basketball I have come to several realizations. 1. Ellis is not working in Milwaukee, he needs the ball in his hands and that isn't happening enough there. 2. The Bucks need to reorganize around one of the best defenders in the league, Larry Sanders. This trade solves both problems as well as giving Milwaukee cap flexibility this off-season.

Why for Orlando:
The Magic are reportedly looking for expiring contracts and a future first round pick. In this trade they get neither but the same goal is accomplished none the less. The Magic would pick up two young plus prospects that can give them solid minutes right away (instead of an expiring and a pick that will help them in a few years) Partnering Henson with Nikola Vucevic gives Orlando two bigs that are long athletic and can rebound. Tobias Harris gives them another wing player to develop next to Mo Harkless. Combine those four with a throw back post scorer in Andrew Nicholson, what will probably be a high draft pick this year and suddenly the Magic future goes from dim to very bright.

Why for Utah:
According to a Zach Lowe piece, a Monta' Ellis drive leads to high percentage shots. The Jazz have very few such players that can attack from the wing and create for themselves and others (Gordon Hayward and sometimes Alec Burks). This team has good talent at every position but they are sorely lacking in the wing shot creation department. Ellis would thrive driving the lane and feeding Favors, Kanter and Jefferson.

When the Jazz lose it is often because of their lack of scoring. Ellis would give them a shot in the arm in this department and help them make a playoff push. Although, they are giving up Millsap, Derrick Favors recently has shown himself to be a capable starter in need of a chance. Long term, moving Millsap will help Utah's progression by opening up minutes for Favors and Enes Kanter.

Check out the other posts in our February Trade Rumors Series:

First
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth
Seventh
Eighth

February Trade Rumors: The Top 20 Expiring Deals

In the next three weeks, "Expiring Deals" may be one of the most commonly used phrases in google searches among NBA fans. The deals have value for both sides. Players on a new team will play hard within a three month rental to earn a new contract, while the teams can cut ties at no cost if they feel as though it's not a good fit. With so many expiring deals showing up in the 2012-2013, here is a quick list of guys who could be coveted as February 21st, 3:00 PM EST comes closer. 

  (Chris Paul should be the most coveted free agent this summer.)

Note: Only contracts $5 Million or more were included.

 1. Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers: $17.78M 
2. Dwight Howard, Lose Angeles Lakers: $19.54M
3. Manu Ginobili, San Antonio Spurs: $14.11M
4. Andrew Bynum, Philadelphia 76ers: $16.89M
5. Josh Smith, Atlanta Hawks: $13.2M
6. Al Jefferson, Utah Jazz: $15.0M
7. David West, Indiana Pacers: $10.0M
8. Kevin Martin, Oklahoma City Thunder: $12.44M
9. Paul Millsap, Utah Jazz: $8.6M
10. Mo Williams, Utah Jazz: $8.5M
11. Stephen Jackson, San Antonio Spurs: $10.06M
12. Chris Kaman, Dallas Mavericks: $8.0M
13. Lamar Odom, Los Angeles Clippers: $8.2M
14. J.J. Redick, Orlando Magic: $6.19M
15.  Samuel Dalenbert, Milwaukee Bucks: $6.7M
16. Tyreke Evans, Sacramento Kings: $5.25M(Restricted)
17. Jose Calderon, Detroit Pistons: $10.56M
18. Kyle Korver, Atlanta Hawks: $5.0M
19. Jarrett Jack, Golden State Warriors: $5.4M
20. Nick Young, Philadelphia 76ers: $5.6M

February Trade Rumors: Bargnani to Chicago

Shortly after the Raptors traded for Rudy Gay rumors started to spread that they were looking to bolster their front court as well. First, Pau Gasol's name came up, but with him going down for the remainder of the season a trade seems unlikely. According to Marc Stein the Raptors went from inquiring about a center with an albatross contract to a power forward with one in Carlos Boozer.


Source: http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8927362/chicago-bulls-toronto-raptors-talking-carlos-boozer-andrea-bargnani-swap-sources-say
"The Chicago Bulls and Toronto Raptors have engaged in exploratory trade discussions on a deal that would swap the Bulls' Carlos Boozer for the Raptors' Andrea Bargnani, according to sources familiar with the discussions."

Why for the Bulls:
Despite Carlos Boozer having his best year in Chicago, he remains one of the more overpaid players in the NBA. Despite being a stellar offensive player Boozer does not have the quickness to have the same impact on the defensive end. When it comes down to crunch time Tom Thibedeau does not have enough faith in Boozer's defensive ability to put him on the court. No player who is paid near max dollars should be on the bench in the closing minutes. The fact that Boozer isn't always in the game in crucial situations is everything you need to know about Chicago's willingness to move him.

More so than any other team in the league the Bulls rely on screens, ball movement and cuts to create their offense. For those three facets of their offense to be successful spacing is extremely important. If opponents can pack the defense in the paint with no fear of leaving three point shooters open defense becomes easy.

The Bulls are 29th in the league in three pointers made and last in three pointers attempted. Adding Bargnani would improve the Bull's three point shooting, and more importantly their spacing. A pick and pop player such as Bargs could prevent teams from sagging into the lane on a Derrick Rose drive, making one of the best dribble drive players even more difficult to drive. In addition to reshaping their floor spacing The Bulls would save themselves five million over the life of the contracts. Who knows, if anyone can get Bargnani to play defense it will be Tom Thidedeau.

Why for the Raptors:
The Raptors are tired of being awful. They have had enough of waiting on ping pong balls to drag them out of the basement. With the Rudy Gay trade Toronto ownership has shown that it is willing to take on salary in order to make the playoffs a reality sooner than later.

In terms of talent Carlos Boozer is better than Andrea Bargnani. He is a much better rebounder and has a better feel for scoring. In Toronto where defense is less of an emphasis Boozer would surely be on the court in clutch situations. The question is will the Raptors consent to committing to Boozer's long term contract

Check out the other posts in our February Trade Rumors Series:

First
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth

February Trade Rumors: Splitter to Utah

Our latest rumor comes from Chris Sheridan, who stated the following when discussing the impending trade deadline. "Here is the latest they are telling me: The San Antonio Spurs are the front-runners to land Al Jefferson in a trade with the Utah Jazz – and they are frontrunners like Secretariat was in the 1973 Belmont Stakes."

Later on Sheridan mentions possible players involved in a deal, as well as why the teams are natural trading partners. Check out his excellent article here.
Here is a link to his piece














Why for San Antonio:
 The Spurs are already an elite team with a chance at a title. They are a veteran team with only so many years left in their window. With Tim Duncan nearing the end of his career it is championship or bust for the Spurs. That is why a deal in which they are sending out some ancillary pieces for a starter makes since. Al Jefferson to the Spurs would be such a deal. Jefferson is an elite back to the basket scorer, partnering him with Tim Duncan would make for a dominant interrior attack to balance their stellar play from the outside (lead by Manu Ginobilli and Tony Parker).  This deal takes them one step closer to the last title of the Duncan era, there is no more important reason than this for making a deal

Why for Utah:
Currently Utah is a team brimming with front court talent. Their two starters are all star caliber players, and they are backed up by one of the most promising young big men combinations in recent memory. Currently this team is a late playoff seed in the west.

In order to get better in the long term, they need to move their older free agent bound big men to make way for their prize prospects and strengthen other deficient areas of the team.

The Jazz's biggest need is a point guard. Patty Mills is a young player who could take over the point for the forseeable future. Along with Mills they would receive Splitter, allowing them to keep strong depth in the front court. Captain Jack would be thrown in for salary purposes.

Check out the rest of our February Trade Rumor Series
First
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth

February Trade Rumors: Randolph to Indiana

As we approach the February 21st trade deadline, its shaping up to be a busy stretch for GMs around the league.  We here at PickandPopDiaries will report any trades that do actually go down, but in the meantime we figured we would fire up the trade machine and think of some trades that could be beneficial for both teams. With the first domino falling in Memphis with the shipping out of Rudy Gay, it would make sense that the team continues to dump salary as the new ownership looks to build its own roster. In this trade rumor, I will look at the possibility of Zach Randolph being dealt to Indiana for Danny Granger and Tyler Hansbrough.

Let's examine this deal:

For Memphis: 

Memphis would continue to free up salary cap space by dumping the remainder of Zach Randolph's contract all while acquiring a former all star in Granger.  While Granger is coming off of a knee injury, something that could scare off suitors, I believe he will be a good player once again.  He can play solid defense all while being a devastating shooter from long distance and in isolation plays.  Along with Granger, who would fill the whole Rudy Gay left behind, the team would get Tyler Hansbrough, a solid physical power forward.  Memphis would have immediately increased depth with Tayshaun Prince moving to the bench while Ed Davis and Hansbrough battled it out for minutes at the PF spot.  This would allow immediate cap relief with the expiring deal of Hansbrough and would get them out of the long term deal one year earlier as Granger has only two years remaining instead of the three years owed Randolph.

For Indiana: 

Well I think this is a no brainer for Indiana.  They get to add an all star caliber front court mate to pair with Hibbert, someone who will go get them a double-double nightly and a player who they can isolate on the block for different looks offensively.  With Granger out, this is like adding a top notch power forward to the rotation in place of Hansbrough.  Yes, the contract is a beefy one and would hinder Indiana's ability to sign free agents in the future, but with Davis West coming off the books this would be an ideal replacement for them for the next few seasons.

Sound off in the comments, is this deal something you would do?

Check out the rest of our February Trade Rumor Series
First
Second
Third
Fourth

February Trade Rumors: Al Jefferson to the Clippers

Trade Rumor Four:
Our fourth installment in the trade rumors series takes us to Utah. This trade is based on the recent rumor of Kevin Garnett to the Clippers. The rumor of KG to the Clippers was flawed for many reasons. 1. Kevin Garnett has a trade clause and happens to be one of the most loyal players in basketball. 2. The Celtics would probably want more than the package of Bledsoe and Butler. Although this rumor does not seem likely it does give us some pertinent information that we can use to form a similar trade. From this trade you can figure out that the Clippers are interested in acquiring a center for a package that could include Eric Bledsoe and Caron Butler. This trade could only be consummated after Chris Paul has come back and shown he is 100%.

The Source:

Clippers are certainly looking to add a frontcourt piece for postseason run. They'd inquired about Cavs' Anderson Varejao before his injury
— Sean Deveney (@SeanDeveney) February 4, 2013

Sources tell Sporting News that the #Clippers have contacted the #Celtics about Kevin Garnett. Offer would include Caron Butler and Beldsoe.
— Sean Deveney (@SeanDeveney) February 3, 2013

Why For the Clippers:
The Clippers are a great team dealing with a tough run of games while its best player is injured. With Chris Paul out they have failed to take care of the basketball and it has lead to losses. Without Paul they need D'Andre Jordan to step up, but his usefulness has greatly diminished. The Clippers need a center that they can trust down the stretch, one who can get they can dump it down to for a bucket anytime they need it. Jordan has been so woeful at the free throw line (shooting 47%) that the Clippers can not afford to have him in the game in crucial situations. They need someone who can play impactful minutes at the five spot for them in the playoffs.
This was essentially the package that was rumored to go to Boston in a Kevin Garnett deal. It stands to reason that if the Clippers could not get KG they would be content to add a player of Jefferson's considerable talents.
Why For the Jazz:
The Jazz have good talented young players at every position except point guard. This off-season Milsap and Jefferson will be free agents, (with Kanter and Favors backing them up) it is unlikely that both come back. In moving Jefferson the Jazz would free up more time for Kanter and Favors as well as picking up a prospect that allows them to set their nucleus for years to come. Bledsoe, Hayward, Kanter and Favors is a great future.

Other Posts in Trade Rumor Series
First
Second
Third

February Trade Rumors: Paul Pierce to the Nuggets

With Jared Sullinger now out for the season after back surgery, even more "break it up" rumors have swirled about the Celtics two coveted pieces, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce. Personally, I find it very unlikely that KG will be moved due to the fact that he has a no trade clause and can waive any deal. For KG to leave Boston, a guaranteed shot at the finals would have to be in play, and there are maybe one or two places in the league that have both the cap and the talent to offer that. 

(It may be time for Pierce to leave Boston.)

If one piece is going to be moved, it is most likely going to be Pierce(who I would hate to see retire in any other jersey besides the green), as he offers more scoring for a contender looking to bolster up. With the Nuggets charging in the West(now just a game out of 4th to gain home court advantage), they may look to improve the one area they are lacking: a proven scorer who could create his own shot late. Here is what I would propose:


Celtics Get: 
 -Corey Brewer - SF
Contract: 1 Year $3,243,000
-Danilo Galinari - SF
Contract: 4 Years $9,349,000

Nuggets Get:
-Paul Pierce - SF
Contract: 2 Years $16,790,345


Why for Denver:
-The Nuggets finally get the scoring punch they need. While Galinari is having a solid season(leading the team with 17PPG), he is not Pierce by any means in terms of being able to create his own shot as well as the late game heroics. Trotting out a starting lineup of Lawson, Iguodala, Pierce, Faried and Mozgov makes the Nuggets a team no one wants to face come playoff time, and they shed the contract of Galinari that is probably a bit too high for what his production is. They can run with Pierce for this year and next, and have him help groom this young roster into a steady Western Contender. By trading away both Brewer and Galinari, the Nuggets also eliminate the logjam at the three spot, and now have Wilson Chandler solely backing up Pierce. 

(Galinari gives the Celtics a scorer for the future.)

Why for Boston:
-The obvious is getting rid of Pierce's contract. While they bind themselves a bit with Galinari's, he fits into a Rondo offense very well as someone who likes to run. Galinari isn't the best defender, but in a team defense mentality like the Celtics, he can only improve and won't be put in as many one-on-one situations like he would in Denver(Boston would most likely use Jeff Green for those). Speaking of Green, this gives the Celtics an option if they want to try to trade him, as they have a new small forward for the future. 

Brewer is an expiring deal that brings a ton of energy to a Boston bench that dearly needs it, and he could be a future piece if the Celtics decided to resign him with some of the new cap money(especially if Garnett retires). A future of Rondo, Bradley, Galinari, Green, Brewer and a healthy Sullinger(and Oden...too soon?) is a much smaller step back than people are expecting the Celtics to take once the remaining pieces of the Big Three are gone. 


We will be doing proposed trade rumors throughout the month(some crazy, some not so crazy, some so crazy that they actually make sense), so make sure to keep up and let us know what you think in the comments. Here are the first and second installments of February Trade Rumors.

-BFord


 

February Trade Rumors: Redick to Indiana

Trade Rumor Number Two:
For our second trade rumor, we built a deal around the player Marc Stein reported as the most likely to be traded. As with all our rumor series, this deal is an extrapolation based on rumor about one of the players involved. This deal would only be made after Granger has played a few games and showed that he is healthy going forward. The trade works salary wise because the Magic have an ample trade exception from the Dwight Howard deal.

Trade Source: Marc Stein "The Orlando sharpshooter is the player, with Gay off the board, most teams cite when asked to name a player who will definitely be dealt between now and the deadline.

Our old friend Ric Bucher recently reported that the Magic want draft considerations or a quality young player still on his rookie contract if they're going to part with Redick, which sure sounds like the sort of wish list Magic GM Rob Hennigan would have been schooled to scribble out at Spurs U. and the graduate program in OKC."

Why for Indiana:

With Danny Granger out for most of the year, the Pacers have found a new leader, Paul George. Thus far, George has had a career year after moving to the small forward position Granger has vacated. Due to this, Granger's name has been rumored to be on the move once he becomes healthy.

The Pacers lack scoring, Lance Stevenson has been a good stop gap fill in at the two spot but Redick would give them the scoring and floor spacing they need. Redick would look great running off screens set by the Pacers two hulking big men, David West and Roy Hibbert.

Andrew Nicholson has shown himself to be a long, post scorer with a throwback game. Nicholson can 

knock down jumpers in the pick and pop as well as finish with his back to the basket in the post. After this year David West is a free agent, Nicholson would be great insurance in case he was to leave. This move will improve the Pacers both this year and in the future.

Why for Orlando:

It has been widely reported that the Magic are looking to move JJ Redick. Redick is set to be a free agent after the season. JJ is due for a raise after averaging a career high 15.3 points. He is worth a higher price tag as a player that pushes a contender over the top, but for a rebuilding Magic team it does not make sense to pay a lot to keep a complementary piece.

Granger when healthy has proven that he is a top tier scorer in this league. Elite players do not grow on trees, despite Orlando having a ton of cap room don't expect them to draw a max type player to a rebuilding team this offseason. Granger would give Orlando the number one scorer that the Magic could build around and take pressure off their promising youngsters.

If you haven't already check out the first post in our trade rumor series  or the third rumor do so here

February Trade Rumors: Pau Gasol to Raptors

The NBA trade deadline is on February 21st, for all of the arm chair gm's out there this means it's time to fire up the trade machine. In honor of this we are going to try and post about 21 trade rumors before the deadline on the 21st. These will be rumors from well known sources, or trades that we think just make sense. Make sure to check in for the Rumor of the day all month leading to the deadline.

 Source: Marc Stein Weekend Dime
 The Trade:














Why for Toronto:
The Raptors have been bad for a while. They are tired of having to build through the draft, then hoping they convince their high draft picks to stay. With the Rudy Gay move, they showed that they are willing to trade young players and take on salary in order to bring a max level player into Toronto.

Pau Gasol would give Toronto a post presence to combine with Amir Johnson. A lineup of Lowry, DeRozan, Gay, Johnson and Gasol is a playoff worth roster. To boot they don't have to pay Bargnani to run three point line to three point line. With the Boston Celtics struggling due injuries the Raptors see a prime opportunity to head back to the playoffs, and Pau Gasol is just the player to lead them there.

Why for LA:
If the Lakers truly are committed to Mike D'Antoni's system (for what reason I'm not sure) then this move will help them both now and in the future.

Andrea Bargnani hasn't lived up to his number one pick billing. He has always been a good scorer, but the other phases of his game have never developed. In D'Antoni's up tempo spread offense a player like Channing Frye was a valuable contributor. Bargnani is similar player but a much better scorer than Frye and should find a niche in LA.The Lakers also get Valanciunas, as a future center product.

Stein mentioned that the reason the Lakers needed to keep Pau was to protect themselves in the event Howard left. In this deal they would obtain a scoring starter now, as well as highly regarded prospect to play center in the future. On top of all that they would be saving $3.5 million in salary during a year in which they will struggle to make the playoffs.

Please leave comments on what you think of this trade, any trades you want our take on or any other question you have. Check out the second piece in our trade rumor series here and the third piece here

Why the Rudy Gay Deal is a great move for Memphis(And Rudy Too)

(Rudy Gay has played his last game for the Memphis Grizzlies.)

Two days ago, Rudy Gay tweeted this statement:

"I'm long overdue."

And while Rudy was most likely not speaking about his time in Memphis(or maybe he was, the writing was not only on the wall but all over the internet), he was correct in his assumptions. Rudy Gay was one of the highest paid players in the NBA this year, and has been since he signed the five year, $80 Million deal with Memphis in 2010. 

The deal included the stipulation that Rudy Gay's contract would increase by 10.5% each year, meaning that the Grizzlies were on schedule to pay Gay close to $17 Million in 2014, and $19 Million in 2015. While Gay has slowly become one of the faces of the franchise, he was simply not earning that type of money. To give you a comparison to other players:

Rudy Gay is currently ranked 27th among all Small Forwards in the NBA(yes, just small forwards) in PER, with a 14.39. (This is hugely ironic by the way, as John Hollinger, the man pretty much responsible for trading Gay, invented that stat.) The two players who surround Rudy Gay are Kwahi Leonard of the Spurs (26th, 14.43) and Dorell Wright of the Sixers (28th, 14.12). 

(Gay Simply wasn't earning his paycheck in the minds of John Hollinger and Memphis.)

While Rudy is set to make right around $15 Million this year, Dorell Wright will make $4.1 Million this year, and Kwahi Leonard will make $1.8 Million. Not really getting any bang for your buck are you?

Rudy was  averaging career lows in free throw percentage and field goal percentage(his field goal percentage is down from 45% to 40%, making almost a shot less per game) and thus his scoring is down as well. Gay also doesn't fit in the Grizzlies scheme in the way that your highest paid player should. With him not shooting well and pounding the ball, teams could sag into Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, preventing the Grizzlies from being able to play any inside-out or pick and roll with any efficiency. Also, with O.J. Mayo gone, Tony Allen was the other scoring option if Gay couldn't get open and the ball couldn't get down low. Needless to say, it was time for a time to rebuild this offense.

While Zach Randolph's name has been thrown around in trade rumors as well, the Grizzlies seemed to have built themselves for long term. They grab an expiring contract in Tayshaun Prince(who could actually help them on the defensive side of the ball, another area where Gay was lacking), and a young player in Ed Davis who isn't well known now, but will be soon now that his energy and solid defense has moved south of the border. Austin Daye has also been looking for a new place to prove himself, and after the Grizzlies trade last week, there are room for role players on that bench. They also have alot more cap space to work with in 2014.

Don't feel bad for Rudy Gay though. He gets a new home in Toronto that is going to feature him as their star, and will most likely turn to him when making certain decisions. He also teams up with Kyle Lowry, whom is well known to be one of Gay's closest friends in the NBA. A starting five of Lowry, Derozan, Gay, Terrence Ross and Amir Johnson is a much better starting five than they started the day with. 

The Raptors can rebuild their offense to play off of Gay(possibly in the way you see the Celtics do with Paul Pierce at times), and become extremely athletic. Don't be surprised if the Raptors make a small push here in the second half, and make sure to circle February 20th on your calendar. The Raptors and their new superstar head to Memphis.


-Bford