05-08-2023, 12:17 AM
(05-07-2023, 10:52 PM)DallasMaverick Wrote: Maybe similar to asking for a quality starting center in exchange for ... Bertans.
It's not really a choice between Bertans and Ayton, since PHX will be expecting far more (whether worth it or not). But the 80M in difference between the 2, when NEITHER is the guy you want in a playoff run, is a really big deal because of how limiting it is going to be, when you are trying to add talent you need.
I think Gobert, who is a similar type center on max deal, is a good comp. He looks attractive by stats, so entices a trade chase, but then it's the same playoff limitations. And then you are stuck with him -- as in, no way Minn can flip Gobert for good value.
I don't want to be Minny.
It's the same crossroads as with THJ -- the question is framed as "we don't have anyone better" but the problem is, you are aiming to be stuck with a limiting bad contract, rather than getting good value and a player who can make a difference for you in a title chase. The Mavs have to (1) get OUT OF bad contracts, rather than make that problem even worse, and (2) spend on players who might make a difference, rather than settle for those who you already know are incapable.