06-12-2023, 12:16 PM
(06-12-2023, 11:50 AM)SwisherPrice Wrote: It's difficult to compare the Mavs and Nuggets in terms of roster-building. Denver's current product is a result of years of developing players and trades. Going back 4-5 years ago when they had good rotational players like Gary Harris, Will Barton, Monte Morris.
Barton/Morris --> Traded for KCP
Harris --> Traded for Aaron Gordon
Since they had Jokic/Murray + a deep roster, they could afford to take a chance on drafting MPJ and be patient with his recovery coming out of college. I remember in that draft, there was a lot of concern about taking MPJ too early since he wouldn't be able to play immediately but once he fell to #14, it was a no-brainer for Denver.
It's just great overall front office work that is reminiscent of the Warriors
The analogy for me would be to draft a talented player with our first round pick and give him 2 years to establish himself as a really good player that outperforms his rookie salary. And secondly, to trade or get rid off our offensive minded players like Hardaway, McGee, Bertans and even Hardy because you need 4 to 5 very good defenders at all positions surrounding Luka and Kyrie.
Miami in contrast can afford or even need offensive minded guys like Herro, Vincent or Robinson because their top players Butler and Adebayo are very good defenders.