12-20-2023, 01:16 AM
(12-20-2023, 12:28 AM)F Gump Wrote: I would generally* say no to Stewart, because I don't think you can pay "backup center" $15M a year. When it comes to centers, $15M should get you a starter these days, unless it's a superstar. And we now live in a hard cap world where the total spending is limited, so that overspending on one guy (Stewart) means you will be unable to fill needs at a different position.
* The exception comes if you can send out an overpriced player in exchange, thereby reducing the negative salary impact of the overpaid backup. Say, for example, it's a one-for-one of Holmes for Stewart (which ESPN Trade Machine says is legal), where the Mavs are perhaps getting the better backup center, but also getting the worse [i]backup center contract. However, if Holmes could be traded, I'd be more inclined to aim for Olynyk (smarter, much-needed stretch big, expiring contract) instead of Stewart.[/i]
Don´t think we need a stretch five. Luka is shooting an NBA all-time high at the rim, and Lively is a large part of that. Stewart would slot into that role. Actually at just 6.8 RPG and 0.6 BPG in 30 minutes, you actually bet on Stewart´s 3pt development being legit as a feature asset. Otherwise you might as well gamble on Wiseman, who is a better rebounder, shotblocker and finisher at the rim. Crazy though that they are the same age and draft class. Shows that Stewart is much more established.
Regarding Olynyk. He is 32 and an UFA. No need to spend assets on him.