07-26-2022, 09:38 AM
(07-26-2022, 06:41 AM)DanSchwartzgan Wrote: I might add SGA to your list. What he does with no supporting cast is pretty amazing.
Something interesting about OG (and part of why he comes up in trade talks) is he will be one of those rare guys at his level who will likely make it to free agency in 2024. So many good players extend before they hit the market now. But, the same 120% rule that limited DFS will limit OG's extension. Same with Jaylen Brown in 24. The second contracts for both were less than the max and if they want the max in 24, they have to wait to get it in free agency.
If Dallas is going to give up talent and 25/27/29 in a deal for someone, they need to be available, age appropriate and good defenders. OG and Brown fit that better than most in the top tiers. The available part comes from their contract situation. If they are traded, it is partially because their teams are worried they might get "Brunsoned". But, if Dallas trades for a guy like that, they are just as exposed to risk as the team trading them away.
We are playing a similar game on a lesser scale with Christian Wood. He can be extended starting at $17.18mm starting later this season. If he plays well, he might get $20mm+ in the open market. The cost, even if he walks next summer, was very little. But, if you are talking guys like OG and Brown, you are giving up a lot to get those guys. With that said, you aren't getting a top tier guy without some risk. You either strip down the roster and generate the cap space to play in free agency (we've seen that movie), or you overpay in a Gobert type move or you do something like what you'd be doing in a deal for someone like OG or Brown.
I'm not sure SGA is a great fit as he is so ball dominate. I really like OG, but I don't think he is good enough to be a true number 2. Brown on the other hand seems like a perfect match. He can create for himself and others, and is used to playing off ball next to a star. He is also someone you don't shy away from paying the max to in 24. If he goes to the Nets in a Durant trade, he might be available for picks and salary filler next offseason.