06-25-2023, 12:10 PM
(06-25-2023, 11:53 AM)cow Wrote: Holmes, Luka and Kyrie starting doesn't seem like that would work defensively. Even if Lively picks up things quickly, he'll have the learning curves of the NBA to figure out so he isn't always in foul trouble. I really think we'll see Powell or Maxi starting with the rest of the group getting heft minutes as well. And that's the optimistic scenario where Holmes rounds back into form and Lively is a day one contributor.
I think Phoenix would trade Ayton for pennies, nickels, or quarters on the dollar is you could give them three contributors. Maybe they'd consider some combination of THJ, Maxi, Bullock, McGee and Holmes to give them depth. Or maybe throw in a Wood S&T to the mix. Trade machines are saying they can take back $40.4M.
I don't really want any part of Ayton though. Maybe if he were still on his rookie contract but his skillset seems a little outdated for the NBA as you can take him off the floor with matchups and that's not want I want to be spending $30+ on per year.
If you want to maximize defense before Lively is ready, then you probably start Maxi at center. Otherwise I'm not sure Powell or even Ayton are better choices than Holmes defensively. Holmes is a better rim protector than either of them, and a better rebounder than Powell.
With the Lively pick and getting back into the draft tells me the FO is not aiming for a championship this season. They are actually looking a little longer term than previously. If that is the mindset, then you don't spend more assets at the center position (other than possibly Powell) unless/until you determine Lively is not going to be the long term solution.