(05-08-2023, 05:34 AM)omahen Wrote: Regarding Ayton, I think the takes he gets played off the floor are a bit overblown. He can protect the pain and he can switch in PnR. On the offensive side he does have some moves. You can't really compare him to Gobert, whos only move is PnR and is not really able to punish smaller defenders when the defense just switches. This is the limitation that makes Gobert nothing special in playoffs. I think Ayton is better. The only concern I have is his commitment, his energy. Is that just because of the Phoenix situation, because he is clearly not happy there for a couple of years now, or is this just who he is. Difficult to answer that, but Mavs seem to think there is more to him.
Mavs have 40 mil of salaries (Bertans, McGee and THJ) next season that don't really fit on this team. Ayton is cheaper than that. Mavs salary problem are those bad salaries, not Ayton being overpaid to an extent. Mavs also have Maxi and Bullock that are sort of ok to have, but nothing special you couldn't approximately replace at vet min. The idea of Kleber is nice, but he is always injured. Bullock proved really ineffective last season. Since most here would not like to trade Green and Hardy, the only valuable assets Mavs have are the two picks.
True, one could SW Bertans and get to MLE. But, which hole are we filling with that? Is there a credible starter Mavs could get for it? I am not sure. They might either cost more or are even less productive than Ayton. We are not getting a star for MLE. Mavs need two good starters to possible become a contender now. Are we sure #10 and MLE can provide that? I think it is more no than yes.
Based on all this, I wouldn't be opposed to Ayton trade if it doesn't involve Green or Hardy. The good negotiator might be able to get something more than just Ayton with that #10 pick, probably involving third team. So Ayton+something more+rMLE vs MLE+#10. I like the first part more.
Again, I ask what does Ayton do at an elite leve to be paid Max money? Certainly not defend the rim or switch out on perimeter players. His offense is decent but consists of rim running with a good mid range jumper. Is that what the Mavs need on the offensive end? I don't think his offense is necessary esp. with Luka and Kyrie on the floor. And is he willing to accept a role of strictly rim running and improved defensive effort. I have my serious doubts and with that role he isnt worth his contract.
Moreover, Ayton has some serious maturity issues. Hes a player who demands the Max money without giving Max effort or work ethic. He would rather play video games away into the night rather then spending time in the gym to work on his craft and take care of his body. There are reports of him getting as little as two hours of sleep at night while doing so. Thats why he probably gives little energy when out on the floor. And is that someone you want to bring into the locker room on Max contract? NO PASS
There is a reason PHX was hesitant to give him a Max contract. He has no clue what it takes to be great at an NBA level.
Waiting out those contracts to expire in two years or trading them at the deadline starting this season or next would be better than being hamstrung with Ayton on a three year Max.
Just last off season Laker fans were in panic with the Westbrook contract and what did their GM do? Take the first offer he could? No he waited and scowered the league until the right deal came around at the deadline.