The Massive Melo Speculation Post: Part 6

Trade #1
Nuggets get: Stephen Jackson, Boris Diaw, Nazr Mohammed, Danilo Gallinari, and Eddy Curry's expiring contract
Knicks get: Carmelo Anthony, Al Harrington, Shaun Livingston
Grizzlies get: J.R. Smith, Wilson Chandler
Bobcats get: O.J. Mayo, Hamed Haddadi, Xavier Henry, Anthony Randolph, Kelenna Azubuike, and Kenyon Martin's expiring contract

Post-trade lineups:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Stephen Jackson, Arron Afflalo
SF - Danilo Gallinari, Gary Forbes
PF - Boris Diaw, Shelden Williams, Renaldo Balkman
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen, Nazr Mohammed

New York Knicks:
PG - Raymond Felton, Shaun Livingston, Toney Douglas
SG - Landry Fields, Bill Walker, Roger Mason
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Shawne Williams
PF - Al Harrington, Ronny Turiaf
C - Amar'e Stoudemire, Timofey Mozgov

Memphis Grizzlies:
PG - Mike Conley, Greivis Vasquez
SG - Wilson Chandler, J.R. Smith, Sam Young
SF - Rudy Gay, Tony Allen
PF - Zach Randolph, Darrell Arthur
C - Marc Gasol, Hasheem Thabeet

Charlotte Bobcats:
PG - D.J. Augustin, Sherron Collins
SG - O.J. Mayo, Gerald Henderson, Xavier Henry
SF - Gerald Wallace, Kelenna Azubuike
PF - Tyrus Thomas, Anthony Randolph
C - DeSagana Diop, Hamed Haddadi, Kwame Brown

Trade #2
Nuggets get: Derrick Favors, Troy Murphy, and Gerald Wallace
Nets get: Carmelo Anthony, Beno Udrih, and Jason Thompson
Bobcats get: Devin Harris, Al Harrington, and J.R. Smith
Kings get: Boris Diaw

Post-trade lineups:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, Gary Forbes
SF - Gerald Wallace, Renaldo Balkman
PF - Troy Murphy, Derrick Favors, Kenyon Martin, Shelden Williams
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen

New Jersey Nets:
PG - Beno Udrih, Jordan Farmar
SG - Anthony Morrow, Sasha Vujacic, Ben Uzoh
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Travis Outlaw, Stephen Graham
PF - Jason Thompson, Kris Humphries
C - Brook Lopez, Johan Petro

Charlotte Bobcats:
PG - Devin Harris, D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - J.R. Smith, Gerald Henderson
SF - Stephen Jackson, Dominic McGuire
PF - Al Harrington, Tyrus Thomas
C - Nazr Mohammed, Kwame Brown, DeSagana Diop

Sacramento Kings:
PG - Tyreke Evans, Pooh Jeter
SG - Francisco Garcia, Luther Head
SF - Omri Casspi, Donte Green
PF - Boris Diaw, Carl Landry, Hassan Whiteside, Darnell Jackson
C - DeMarcus Cousins, Samuel Dalembert

The Massive Melo Speculation Post: Part 5

Trade #1:

Denver gets: Jeff Green, James Harden, Stephen Jackson, DeSagana Diop, Matt Carroll, and Julian Wright's trade exception
New Orleans gets: Carmelo Anthony, Arron Afflalo, Boris Diaw
Oklahoma City gets: David West
Charlotte gets: Chauncey Billups, Marcus Thornton, Trevor Ariza, and $9M Peja Stojakovic's trade exception

Post trade rosters:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Ty Lawson, Anthony Carter
SG - Stephen Jackson, James Harden, J.R. Smith
SF - Jeff Green, Gary Forbes
PF - Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen, DeSagana Diop

New Orleans Hornets:
PG - Chris Paul, Jarrett Jack
SG - Marco Belinelli, Willie Green, Arron Afflalo
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Quincy Pondexter
PF - Boris Diaw, Jason Smith, Pops Mensah-Bonsu
C - Emeka Okafor, Aaron Gray

Oklahoma City Thunder:
PG - Russell Westbrook, Eric Maynor
SG - Thabo Sefolosha, Daequan Cook
SF - Kevin Durant, Morris Peterson
PF - David West, Nick Collison, D.J. White
C - Serge Ibaka, Nenad Kristic, Byron Mullens

Charlotte Bobcats:
PG - Chauncey Billups, D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - Trevor Ariza, Marcus Thornton, Gerald Henderson
SF - Gerald Wallace, Dominic McGuire
PF - Tyrus Thomas, Edjuardo Najera
C - Nazr Mohammed, Kwame Brown


Trade #2:
Denver gets: Kevin Love, Martell Webster, Robin Lopez, and Earl Clark
Minnesota gets: O.J Mayo, Hedo Turkoglu
Phoenix gets: Carmelo Anthony
Memphis gets: Grant Hill

Post trade rosters:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, J.R. Smith
SF - Martell Webster, Gary Forbes
PF - Kevin Love, Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington
C - Nene Hilario, Robin Lopez, Chris Andersen

Minnesota Timberwolves:
PG - Johnny Flynn, Luke Ridnour, Sebastian Telfair
SG - O.J. Mayo, Wes Johnson
SF - Hedo Turkoglu, Corey Brewer
PF - Michael Beasley, Anthony Tolliver
C - Darko Milicic, Nikola Pekovic, Kosta Koufos

Phoenix Suns:
PG - Steve Nash, Goran Dragic
SG - Jason Richardson, Josh Childress
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Jared Dudley, Gani Lawai
PF - Hakim Warrick, Earl Barron
C - Channing Frye, Garrett Siler

Memphis Grizzlies:
PG - Mike Conley, Greivis Vasquez
SG - Tony Allen, Xavier Henry, Sam Young
SF - Rudy Gay, Grant Hill
PF - Zach Randolph, Darrell Arthur
C - Marc Gasol, Hasheem Thabeet, Hamed Haddadi

Trade #3:
Denver gets: O.J. Mayo, Hedo Turkoglu, Spencer Hawes, Grant Hill, Robin Lopez
Philadelphia gets: Carmelo Anthony
Phoenix gets: Zach Randolph
Memphis gets: Andre Iguodala, J.R. Smith

Post trade rosters:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - O.J. Mayo, Arron Afflalo
SF - Hedo Turkoglu, Gary Forbes
PF - Nene Hilario, Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington, Shelden Williams
C - Spencer Hawes, Chris Andersen

Philadelphia 76ers:
PG - Jrue Holiday, Louis Williams
SG - Evan Turner, Jodie Meeks
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Andres Nocioni, Jason Kapono
PF - Elton Brand, Thaddeus Young, Darius Songaila
C - Marresse Speights, Tony Battie

Phoenix Suns:
PG - Steve Nash, Goran Dragic
SG - Jason Richardson, Josh Childress
SF - Jared Dudley, Earl Clark, Gani Lawai
PF - Zach Randolph, Hakim Warrick
C - Channing Frye, Earl Barron, Garrett Siler

Memphis Grizzlies:
PG - Mike Conley, Greivis Vasquez
SG - Andre Iguodala, J.R. Smith, Sam Young
SF - Rudy Gay, Tony Allen
PF - Darrell Arthur, DeMarr Carroll
C - Marc Gasol, Hasheem Thabeet, Hamed Haddadi

Trade #4:
Denver gets: Thaddeus Young, DeSagana Diop, Anthony Parker, J.J. Hickson, Jamario Moon
Cleveland gets: Andre Iguodala, Matt Carroll
Charlotte gets: Mo Williams
Philadelphia gets: Carmelo Anthony

Post trade rosters:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, J.R. Smith
SF - Jamario Moon, Thaddeus Young, Gary Forbes
PF - J.J. Hickson, Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen

Cleveland Cavaliers:
PG - Ramon Sessions, Daniel Gibson
SG - Andre Iguodala, Christian Eyenga, Manny Harris
SF - Antawn Jamison, Joey Graham, Jawad Williams
PF - Anderson Varejao, Leon Powe, Samardo Samuels
C - Ryan Hollins

Charlotte Bobcats:
PG - Mo Williams, D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - Stephen Jackson, Gerald Henderson
SF - Gerald Wallace, Dominic McGuire
PF - Boris Diaw, Tyrus Thomas, Edjuardo Najera
C - Nazr Mohammed, Kwame Brown

Philadelphia 76ers:
PG - Jrue Holiday, Louis Williams
SG - Evan Turner, Jodie Meeks
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Andres Nocioni, Jason Kapono
PF - Elton Brand, Marresse Speights, Darius Songaila
C - Spencer Hawes, Tony Battie


Trade #5:
Denver gets: Marcin Gortat, Brandon Bass, Martell Webster, Corey Brewer, Nick Young
Orlando gets: Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Love, J.R. Smith
Minnesota gets: Gilbert Arenas, Mickael Pietrus
Washington gets: Rashard Lewis

Post trade rosters:

Denver Nuggets:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, Nick Young
SF - Martell Webster, Corey Brewer, Gary Forbes
PF - Nene Hilario, Brandon Bass, Al Harrington
C - Marcin Gortat, Chris Andersen

Orlando Magic:
PG - Jameer Nelson, Chris Duhon, Jason Williams
SG - Vince Carter, J.J. Redick, J.R. Smith
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Quentin Richardson
PF - Kevin Love, Ryan Anderson
C - Dwight Howard, Daniel Orton

Minnesota Timberwolves:
PG - Johnny Flynn, Luke Ridnour, Sebastian Telfair
SG - Gilbert Arenas, Wayne Ellington
SF - Mickael Pietrus, Wes Johnson
PF - Michael Beasley, Anthony Tolliver
C - Darko Milicic, Nikola Pekovic, Kosta Koufos

Washington Wizards:
PG - John Wall
SG - Kirk Hinrich, Alonzo Gee, Cartier Martin
SF - Rashard Lewis, Josh Howard, Al Thornton
PF - Andray Blatche, Yi Jianlian
C - JeVale McGee, Hilton Armstrong, Trevor Booker

The Massive Melo Speculation Post: Part 4

Still going:

I'll just post ideas and maybe analyze later:

Again, this is just speculation, I have no basis for this.


Trade #1
Denver gets: Andre Iguodala, Anthony Randolph, Nazr Mohammed, Eddy Curry's expiring contract
Philadelphia gets: Gerald Wallace, Danilo Gallinari
New York gets: Carmelo Anthony
Charlotte gets: Chauncey Billups, Wilson Chandler

Post trade rosters:
Denver:
PG - Ty Lawson, Anthony Carter
SG - Arron Afflalo, J.R. Smith
SF - Andre Iguodala, Gary Forbes, Renaldo Balkman
PF - Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington, Shelden Williams
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen, Nazr Mohammed

Philadelphia:
PG - Jrue Holiday, Louis Williams
SG - Evan Turner, Jason Kapono, Jodie Meeks
SF- Gerald Wallace, Danilo Gallinari, Andres Nocioni
PF - Elton Brand, Thaddeus Young
C - Spencer Hawes, Marresse Speights

New York:
PG - Raymond Felton, Toney Douglas
SG - Landry Fields, Bill Walker, Roger Mason, Andy Rautins
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Kelenna Azubuike
PF - Amar'e Stoudemire, Shawne Williams
C - Timofey Mozgov, Ronny Turiaf

Charlotte:
PG - Chauncey Billups, D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - Stephen Jackson, Gerald Henderson
SF - Wilson Chandler, Dominic McGuire
PF - Boris Diaw, Tyrus Thomas, Edjuardo Najera
C - Kwame Brown, DeSegana Diop

Trade #2
Denver gets: Jamario Moon, Anderson Varejao, Eddy Curry's expiring contract
Cleveland gets: Danilo Gallinari, Anthony Randolph, J.R. Smith
New York gets: Carmelo Anthony

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, Gary Forbes
SF - Jamario Moon, Al Harrington
PF - Nene Hilario, Kenyon Martin, Shelden Williams, Renaldo Balkman
C - Anderson Varejao, Chris Andersen

Cleveland:
PG - Mo Williams, Ramon Sessions
SG - J.R. Smith, Anthony Parker, Daniel Gibson
SF - Danilo Gallinari, Jawad Williams, Joey Graham
PF - Antawn Jamison, Anthony Randloph, Leon Powe
C - J.J. Hickson, Ryan Hollins

New York:
PG - Raymond Felton, Toney Douglas
SG - Landry Fields, Bill Walker, Roger Mason
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Wilson Chandler, Kelenna Azubuike
PF - Amar'e Stoudemire, Shawne Williams
C - Timofey Mozgov, Ronny Turiaf

Trade #3
Denver gets: Derrick Favors, Gerald Wallace, Jamal Crawford
Atlanta gets: Boris Diaw, Nazr Mohammed
Charlotte gets: Troy Murphy, Josh Smith, J.R. Smith
New Jersey gets: Carmelo Anthony

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson, Anthony Carter
SG - Jamal Crawford, Arron Afflalo
SF - Gerald Wallace, Gary Forbes
PF - Kenyon Martin, Derrick Favors, Shelden Williams
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen

Atlanta:
PG - Mike Bibby, Jeff Teague
SG - Joe Johnson, Mo Evans
SF - Marvin Williams, Pape Sy

PF - Al Horford, Boris Diaw
C - Nazr Mohammed, Zaza Pachulia, Josh Powell, Etan Thomas, Jason Collins

Charlotte:
PG - D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - J.R. Smith, Gerald Henderson, Matt Carroll
SF - Stephen Jackson, Dominic McGuire
PF - Josh Smith, Tyrus Thomas, Troy Murphy
C - Kwame Brown, DeSegana Diop

New Jersey:
PG - Devin Harris, Jordan Farmar
SG - Anthony Morrow, Terrence Williams
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Travis Outlaw, Damion Jones, Quinton Ross
PF - Kris Humphries, Joe Smith
C - Brook Lopez, Johan Petro

Trade #4
Denver gets: Anderson Varejao, Jamario Moon, Zach Randolph, O.J. Mayo
Cleveland gets: J.R. Smith, Thaddeus Young, Kenyon Martin (and his expiring contract)
Philadelphia gets: Carmelo Anthony
Memphis gets: Andre Iguodala, Antawn Jamison

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - O.J. Mayo, Arron Afflalo
SF - Jamario Moon, Gary Forbes
PF - Zach Randolph, Al Harrington, Shelden Williams
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen, Anderson Varejao

Cleveland:
PG - Mo Williams, Ramon Sessions, Daniel Gibson
SG - Anthony Parker, J.R. Smith
SF - Thaddeus Young, Joey Graham, Jawad Williams
PF - Kenyon Martin, Leon Powe
C - J.J. Hickson, Ryan Hollins

Philadelphia:
PG - Jrue Holiday, Louis Williams
SG - Evan Turner, Jason Kapono, Jodie Meeks
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Andres Nocioni
PF - Elton Brand, Darius Songaila
C - Spencer Hawes, Marresse Speights, Tony Battie

Memphis:
PG - Mike Conley, Acie Law
SG - Andre Iguodala, Xavier Henry, Greivis Vasquez
SF - Rudy Gay, Sam Young
PF - Antawn Jamison, Darrell Arthur
C - Marc Gasol, Hasheem Thabeet, Hamed Haddadi


Trade #5
Denver gets: Shane Battier, Anderson Varejao, Nazr Mohammed, Anthony Parker
Houston gets: Carmelo Anthony
Cleveland gets: Gerald Wallace, J.R. Smith
Charlotte gets: Mo Williams, Kevin Martin

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Chuancey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Anthony Parker, Arron Afflalo
SF - Shane Battier, Gary Forbes
PF - Nene Hilario, Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington
C - Anderson Varejao, Chris Andersen, Nazr Mohammed

Houston:
PG - Aaron Brooks, Kyle Lowry, Ishmael Smith
SG - Courtney Lee, Jared Jeffries
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Chase Budinger
PF - Luis Scola, Chuck Hayes, Jordan Hill
C - Yao Ming, Brad Miller

Cleveland:
PG - Ramon Sessions, Daniel Gibson
SG - J.R. Smith, Christian Eyenga
SF - Gerald Wallace, Jamario Moon, Joey Graham, Jawad Williams
PF - Antawn Jamison, Leon Powe
C - J.J. Hickson, Ryan Hollins

Charlotte:
PG - Mo Williams, D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - Kevin Martin, Gerald Henderson, Matt Carroll
SF - Stephen Jackson, Dominic McGuire
PF - Boris Diaw, Tyrus Thomas
C - Kwame Brown, DeSagana Diop

Trade #6
Denver gets: Tayshaun Prince, Peja Stojakovic, Chris Wilcox, Marcus Thornton
Detroit gets: Kenyon Martin, Jamal Crawford, Josh Smith
New Orleans gets: Carmelo Anthony, J.R. Smith
Atlanta gets: David West, Richard Hamilton, Jason Maxiell

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, Marcus Thornton
SF - Tayshaun Prince, Peja Stojakovic, Gary Forbes
PF - Shelden Williams, Al Harrington, Chris Wilcox
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen

Detroit:
PG - Rodney Stuckey, Will Bynum
SG - Jamal Crawford, Ben Gordon, Tracy McGrady
SF - Jonas Jerebko, Austin Daye
PF - Josh Smith, Kenyon Martin, Charlie Villanueva
C - Ben Wallace, Greg Monroe

New Orleans:
PG - Chris Paul, Jerryd Bayless
SG - Trevor Ariza, Marco Belinelli, J.R. Smith, Willie Green
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Quincy Pondexter
PF - Jason Smith, Pops Mensah-Bonsu
C - Emeka Okafor, D.J. Mbenga

Atlanta:
PG - Mike Bibby, Jeff Teague
SG - Joe Johnson, Richard Hamilton, Jordan Crawford
SF - Marvin Williams, Mo Evans
PF - David West, Etan Thomas
C - Al Horford, Zaza Pachulia, Josh Powell

Trade #7
Denver gets: Jeff Green, Nenad Kristic, Kevin Martin, Kosta Koufos, Lazar Hayward
Oklahoma City gets: Kevin Love, J.R. Smith
Minnesota gets: Shane Battier, Chauncey Billups
Houston gets: Carmelo Anthony, Martell Webster

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Ty Lawson, Anthony Carter
SG - Kevin Martin, Arron Afflalo
SF - Jeff Green, Gary Forbes
PF - Nene Hilario, Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington
C - Nenad Kristic, Chris Andersen, Kosta Koufos


Oklahoma City:
PG - Russell Westbrook, Eric Maynor
SG - Thabo Sefolosha, James Harden, J.R. Smith
SF - Kevin Durant, Morris Peterson
PF - Kevin Love, Nick Collison
C - Serge Ibaka, Cole Aldrich, Byron Mullens

Minnesota:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Johnny Flynn, Luke Ridnour, Sebastian Telfair
SG - Corey Brewer, Wayne Ellington
SF - Shane Battier, Wesley Johnson
PF - Michael Beasley, Anthony Tolliver
C - Darko Milicic, Nikola Pekovic

Houston:
PG - Aaron Brooks, Kyle Lowry, Ishmael Smith
SG - Martell Webster, Courtney Lee
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Chase Budinger
PF - Luis Scola, Chuck Hayes, Jordan Hill
C - Yao Ming, Brad Miller


Trade #8
Denver gets: Donte Greene, Chris Kaman, Al-Farouq Aminu, Jeff Green
Oklahoma City gets: Jason Thompson
Sacramento gets: Chauncey Billups
L.A. Clippers get: Carmelo Anthony

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Ty Lawson, Anthony Carter
SG - Arron Afflalo, J.R. Smith
SF - Jeff Green, Donte Greene, Al-Farouq Aminu
PF - Nene Hilario, Kenyon Martin, Al Harrington
C - Chris Kaman, Chris Andersen

Oklahoma City:
PG - Russell Westbrook, Eric Maynor
SG - Thabo Sefolosha, James Harden
SF - Kevin Durant, Morris Peterson
PF - Jason Thomson, Nick Collison, D.J. White
C - Nenad Kristic, Serge Ibaka, Cole Aldrich

Sacramento:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Beno Udrih
SG - Tyreke Evans, Francisco Garcia, Luther Head
SF - Omri Casspi, Antoine Wright
PF - Carl Landry, Darnell Jackson, Hassan Whiteside
C - Samuel Dalembert, DeMarcus Cousins

L.A. Clippers:
PG - Baron Davis, Eric Bledsoe, Randy Foye
SG - Eric Gordon, Rasual Butler
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Ryan Gomes
PF - Blake Griffin, Craig Smith, Brian Cook
C - DeAndre Jordan, Jarron Collins


Trade #9
Denver gets: Gerald Wallace, Boris Diaw, Thaddeus Young, Andres Nocioni, Jason Kapono
Dallas gets: Andre Iguodala
Charlotte gets: Shawn Marion, Jason Terry
Philadelphia gets: Carmelo Anthony, Kenyon Martin

Post trade rosters:

Denver:
PG - Chauncey Billups, Ty Lawson
SG - Arron Afflalo, J.R. Smith, Gary Forbes
SF - Gerald Wallace, Thaddeus Young, Andres Nocioni
PF - Boris Diaw, Al Harrington
C - Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen

Dallas:
PG - Jason Kidd, J.J. Barea, Rodrigue Beaubois
SG - Andre Iguodala, DeShawn Stevenson, Damion Jones
SF - Caron Butler, Steve Novak
PF - Dirk Nowitzki, Brian Cardinal
C - Tyson Chandler, Brendan Haywood

Charlotte:
PG - D.J. Augustin, Shaun Livingston
SG - Stephen Jackson, Jason Terry, Gerald Henderson
SF - Shawn Marion, Dominic McGuire
PF - Tyrus Thomas, Edjuardo Najera
C - Nazr Mohammed, Kwame Brown, DeSagana Diop

Philadelphia:
PG - Jrue Holiday, Louis Williams
SG - Evan Turner, Jodie Meeks
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Craig Brackins
PF - Elton Brand, Kenyon Martin, Darius Songaila
C - Spencer Hawes, Marresse Speights, Tony Battie

The Massive Melo Speculation Post: Part 3

Okay, so this isn't dead.  I stopped posting when I thought Melo was for sure going to New Jersey, but he's not, or not yet.  We'll see.  Meanwhile, onwards to my pointless (but fun) trade mongering...

Golden State Warriors send Monta Ellis, Andris Biedrins, with the expiring contracts of Vladamir Radmonovic and Dan Gadzuric to Denver for Melo and K-Mart

Okay, so I don't know that Denver wants to save money more than it wants a different super star, I'm also fairly confident that they probably won't consider Monta Ellis that super star.  Another option would've been swapping Vlad Rad and Gadzuric for Brandon Wright and K-Mart for J.R. Smith otherwise waiting until December and using Dorrell Wright.  Either way, it's an interesting concept, but frankly it does leave the Ws a little thin in the frontcourt, forced to once again play David Lee as a center (which he really isn't).  With Louis Amundson injured and missing time, I'm not positive that GSW is willing to pull the trigger in parting with one of its key bigs (Biedrins) even if it means getting a star in return, and frankly, I don't see Melo signing an extension with GSW so they'd be essentially giving away Monta and Biedrins for nothing.  A lot of fans would love to see this though.

New York seems to think it can trade Danilo Gallinari and/or Anthony Randolph for a star of tradeable caliber to Denver.  I'm not entirely convinced that's the case, but speculation puts me with either a Gilbert Arenas trade or a recreation of the 2004 Detroit Pistons.  I'm pretty sure neither Gilbert nor Rip Hamilton are answers.  Additionally, I don't think Gallinari and/or Randolph are super appealing to the Wiz who have Blatche, Thornton, Yi, and Howard nor the Pistons who are sitting on T-Mac, Jerebko, Austin Daye, Jason Maxiell, and Charlie Villanueva.  Not a fan of either, but I'm just throwing it out there for thought.

Now I don't know that they're looking, but a trade that makes sense to me is this:


Charlotte Bobcats send Boris Diaw, Gerald Wallace, and Nazr Mohammed to Denver for Melo and J.R. Smith

Why? Bobcats need a scorer and Melo can score (so can J.R. Smith when he's on).  This trade also makes sense too.  In fact I like it better.  Essentially Bobcats still get Melo and Denver still gets Wallace and Mohammed, but we loop in Toronto, getting Boris Diaw from Charlotte and Kenyon Martin from Denver and sending Reggie Evans to Denver and Jose Calderon with Chris Bosh's trade exception to Charlotte.  Why does this work?  Jerry Colangelo loves those saavy European vets like Boris Diaw and Leandro Barbosa, they had originally wanted essentially Diaw for Calderon, but were balked by Jordan for wanting Tyson Chandler too (who he later gave away for Erick Dampier who he waived so nothing?), and Calderon is precisely the type of point guard that works well with Larry Brown (runs sets, doesn't push the game, takes carefully selected shots) and therefore precisely the kind of PG that the Bobcats want.  The main question is whether or not Gerald Wallace is a sufficient star in what Denver wants in return.  Certainly Wallace has shown his prowess on the defensive end, and adding eligible big men in Mohammed and Evans while jettisoning K-Mart's contract is on the agenda, will adding Wallace keep the Nuggets competitive?  I'd like to say yes, via also more opportunities for Nene, but I honestly can't say I know their games well enough to say for sure.

I'll keep thinking of these and we'll keep going until Melo is actually traded.

The Massive Melo Speculation Post: Part 2

Continuing on, two other teams mentioned in regards to the whole Melo trade speculation thing have been the Bulls and Rockets.  Here's what I think it will boil down to...


Chicago Bulls send Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, Joakim Noah, and James Johnson to Denver for Melo.
Frankly if this ever gets proposed and this does end up happening Ujiri will look like a genius and Paxson an idiot.  It's not that I don't like Melo, but the Bulls are getting fleeced for this deal, unless a third team gets involved and Chicago gets more out of this, this is the only way Chicago can even muster up enough salary to match Melo, short of trading Derrick Rose.  While a core of Rose, Melo, and Carlos Boozer is quite formidable, the Bulls essentially have gutted their entire frontcourt.  Chicago is now relegated to once again searching free agency, since their C slot is relegated to Omer Asik and Kurt Thomas, leaving no one really to backup Carlos Boozer.  I don't mind a 3 big rotation, but only if the three bigs are of high caliber.  Not to knock on Asik and Thomas, but frankly, Asik is completely unproven and Thomas, well, at best he'd be the third big. 

As for Denver, well, they get an amazingly solid lineup.  The presence of Noah will slide Nene back to PF, where he is more comfortable, and then Deng can take Melo's starting spot.  While perhaps not as offensively polished as Melo, Deng can hold his own and is a defensive force to be reckoned with.  Tack on the hustle and rebounding of Taj Gibson, plus scoring off the bench of Al Harrington (provided the rotations work out) and the Nuggets actually get better by getting rid of their best player.


Houston Rockets send Kevin Martin and Shane Battier to Denver for Melo.
Ultimately I really see this to be something of a wash, since it involves how well Melo meshes with a very team oriented system on Rick Adelman's Rockets.  This certainly allows Courtney Lee to get his chance as a starter on the Rockets next to a formidable lineup of Aaron Brooks, Melo, Luis Scola, and Yao Ming (if healthy).  While they don't have a number of big name players, Jared Jeffries can spot minutes as a defensive specialist, and Kyle Korver and Brad Miller off the bench is still a pretty good system roster wise.  Melo definitely is a step up from Kevin Martin scoring wise and should take a lot of that load off of Yao, providing a very balanced offense with Scola's hustle and Brooks's shooting.

On the flip side, Kevin Martin and Shane Battier slide into the Nuggets' starting lineup quite well.  However, the question is, how well will a platoon of J.R. Smith and Arron Afflalo for minutes work behind Martin in the depth charts.  Again, it's muuch more of a horizontal movement than any improvement given Martin's peaking game and Battier's decline due to age.

Trades in the shadow of the All-Star Game

Okay, so I didn't watch the All-Star Game this year, from all reports it was okay that I didn't. I heard it wasn't really that good. Anyways, I check the boards to find, this massive trade between Washington and Dallas. It's something to ponder. In summary, it's Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood, and DeShawn Stevenson for Josh Howard, Drew Gooden, James Singleton, and Quinton Ross.

Hm... how does this pan out? Not sure. We know that Washington is on firesale mode, and completely rebuilding, so it's not a bad deal for them, I think all the contracts are expiring, if not, Howard is a decent piece to build around. So the big question is how this works out for Dallas. I think Butler is an upgrade over Howard, but a marginal one, though many might disagree with me given Howard's recent slump. Though he doesn't bring the rebounding that Howard has, the presence of Shawn Marion mitigates the problem slightly. Additionally, Brendan Haywood I think is the clincher. He's somewhat underappreciated as a center since he played for Washington, he's not elite, but he certainly is an upgrade over Erick Dampier and Drew Gooden on the offensive and defensive ends respectively. I think DeShawn Stevenson is also a legitimate backup on the wings. All-in-all, way to capitalize Dallas. I anticipate Butler and Haywood will start immediately, so as soon as they get integrated into Rick Carlisle's system, Dallas becomes that much scarier. Singleton and Ross were pretty expendable so, Dallas gets an A for upgrading needs at starter and adding depth. Both Butler and Marion can shift between the 2 and 3 slots to the 3 and 4 slots, DeShawn Stevenson can play the same positions as Butler, and then adding in Terry and Dirk the wings are covered pretty well, then Dampier serves a suitable backup for Haywood. Score for Dallas.

Moving forward, onward, whatever you want to call it...

Post season is over, well, for some teams, so far the Pistons, Jazz, Spurs, and most recently the Hornets.  I got a chance to see 3 minutes of the 4th quarter of game 4 of the Houston-Portland matchup.  So it goes without saying that I haven't really been following the Playoffs very closely, rather, almost not at all, besides Kelly Dwyer's Behind the Boxscore that shows up in my feeds every morning.  I don't really have time or the inclination to go through and talk about every team that was bounced and how they should improve.  How the Pistons really went into the post season not really caring because the team was built on a core that probably won't be there next year.  How Rasheed Wallace and Antonio McDyess are walking next year, and how the only players that are guaranteed to be wearing Piston's blue come September are Rodney Stuckey and Will Bynum.  How the Carlos Boozer probably won't be returning to the Jazz, how he's overpaid and overrated,  and how they were plagued with injuries.  How no one other than Jerry Sloan is willing to take ownership of the team, which it what keeps it from being championship caliber.  How the Hornets' roster of Chris Paul, Rasual Butler, Peja Stojakovic, David West, Tyson Chandler, Antonio Daniels, James Posey, Sean Marks, and Hilton Armstrong are the modern day Western Conference equivalent to the 2006-2007 Cleveland Cavaliers roster of Larry Hughes, Sasha Pavlovic, LeBron James, Drew Gooden, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Daniel Gibson, Eric Snow, Ira Newble, Donyell Marshall, and Anderson Varejao.

If you've read me long enough, you know I'm a Spurs fan, and so, as you've likely guessed, I'm going to talk about the Spurs.  While it bothers me somewhat that it's Dallas of all teams that's ousting my beloved Spurs, rather embarassingly, from the first round, there's a part of me that's sort of glad that they were rather soundly trounced.  No one ever likes seeing their team lose, but nonetheless, I hope that Greg Popovich and RC Buford see this as a strong wakeup call that it's not 2005 anymore.  While Tony Parker has evolved to become the star that everyone hoped for, Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan, while by no means quickly losing ground to old age, aren't really quite what they were almost 5 years ago.  I don't want to hear the, "If only Manu were healthy..." excuses, the fact of the matter remains, outside of the Big 3 of Duncan, Ginobili, and Parker, the San Antonio Spurs are a mediocre team, at best.  

Please don't tell me otherwise, I have no delusions of grandeur.  Don't tell me how Roger Mason has been clutch, because while he's made a couple of big shots, he's a relatively ineffecient player and scorer.  He's just getting more attention because he's not buried behind Gilbert Arenas and Antonio Daniels on the Wizards.  In the additional 9 minutes of play he's averaging an additional 2.7 points, 1.5 rebounds, 0.4 assists, and 0.3 turnovers on 3 additional shot attempts, shooting roughly the same percentages (with a slightly increased 3pt shooting percentage I attribute to better looks).  11 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assist, with essentially no steals, no blocks, and a couple of threes in 30+ minutes of play isn't my definition of stellar.  The guy turns 29 by the start of the next regular season, so I can't really imagine him getting better.  Don't get me wrong, he's solid, an average role player, I just don't want people getting the wrong idea he's some kind of savior.  If you don't believe me, check his per 36 numbers between this year and last.  He actually did better last year because he had to facilitate more, since the only time he got to see significant floor time was when both Arenas and Daniels were injured.

I know Michael Finley can get hot once and a while and shoot the Spurs to a win.  However, the distance between such games is growing ever larger.  The man is 36, we have to remember that.  He's almost 10 years removed from his best season.  This isn't the 1999 22 point per game Michael Finley, this is the 2009 9 point per game, with streaky 3s, as capable of being red hot as he is consistently ice cold.

While Bruce Bowen is a solid contributor on the defensive end, he's about a month shy of 38.  In basketball terms, 38 is a big number, when referring to age, big numbers are bad.  Ok, maybe not "bad" but certainly it doesn't help his athleticism and ability to stay in front of younger, more athletic players.  Same goes for Kurt Thomas and Fabricio Oberto, who are 36 and 34 respectively.  

Finally, while Matt Bonner has been a pleasant surprise this season, it's only because everyone had absolutely no expectations about him whatsoever coming into the season.  When nothing turns out to be something, it's always something of a shock (in a good way).  Let's be honest though, while Bonner's production was somewhat serindipidous, he's not much more than a poor man's version of Al Harrington or Andrea Bargnani.  That's pretty bad.  Granted, he's no Mark Blount or Brian Cook, but still, I don't know that it merits 23 minutes per game.  

Jacque Vaughn was, well... Jacque Vaughn, I don't know that I really need to say much more than that.  As for Drew Gooden, it was too little, too late.  He's good, and he played fairly well with the Spurs, but I think that he's going to want more than he's worth, at least to the Spurs.  There are other intricacies involved with Gooden, I'll get into that later.  

Generally speaking, you could probably just read Timothy Varner's post at 48 Minutes regarding how the Spurs should move forward, which boils down a lot of the needs.  It doesn't quite sum up what I want to talk about, but definitely is worth reading.  I take a slightly different approach from Varner, but I think his ideas have merit and work too.  Sounds like Varner is going to have a bunch of upcoming posts as to how the Spurs should improve their roster, so I'd always keep an eye on what Graydon and Varner have going on there, it's usually good stuff.

As you might've heard, the salary cap is supposed to fall.  If you're not sure what that means, it means that teams are allowed less money to sign their players.  Since as the cap falls, so does the luxury tax threshhold and likely the mid-level exception.  The current salary cap is set at $58.68 million, it's expected to drop to $57.3 million, now in terms of salary flexibility, it doesn't mean much for the Spurs, as they're over the cap either way, however, if the MLE drops, they have less money with which to improve their roster.  If we look at the roster next season, the Spurs will have approximately $66 million in salary tied up in Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, Thomas, Bowen, Mason, Bonner, Hill, Mahinmi (if they exercise their team option), and Finley (if he exercises his player option).  Of the above mentioned players, the core I think Spurs should rebuild around are Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, Hill, and Mahinmi.  While it would be nice to retain Mason and maybe Bonner, I personally don't think it necessary, and am willing to part with them, if it means an improvement to the roster, in short, they're not untouchable.

So far, the only thing the Spurs really have to play around with are expiring contracts, as everyone on the roster except essentially Duncan and Parker are not guaranteed past 2010.  Given that a lot of teams are probably looking to cut costs, it's not a bad situation to be in.  We'll see how all that pans out though.  However, before we start looking into that, I want to address one thing:

Should the Spurs trade Manu Ginobili?

In short, my answer is: no.  I suppose I should probably expound on that a little bit, there are various posts/comments and such around the internet regarding whether or not Manu should be traded.  There are various reasons to think consider trading Manu.  He's 32, he's beat up, and he's not getting younger, and therefore has the "injury-prone" label applied to him, especially given his style of play, granted, he's never played a whole season in his 7 season in the NBA, but still, he has been playing basketball essentially for the past 2-3 years (since the 2006-2007 season), straight, meaning no offseason (FIBA qualifiers and then Olympics).  I'm not going to get into whether or not he should've been allowed to represent Argentina in the international games, but I'm just going to say this, while the Spurs pay him, they don't own him.  Let the man make his decisions.  You don't see Laker fans complain about how Kobe put off hand surgery and represented the US, oh yeah, Kobe's turning 31 by the way. 

Anyways I digress.  While I won't off handedly turn down any offers for Manu (like say LeBron for Manu), I don't believe that it's in the Spurs' best interest to trade him.  Firstly, as he has the "injury-prone" label, I don't think his stock is that high.  Yes, I think we all realize that he's only one season removed from the best statistical season he's ever had (2007-2008), but still, given that he hasn't played for most of the year, and only played a gimpy 44 games this season, I don't know that the Spurs could really get anything of significant value back for him.  Secondly, I believe that Ginobili can still continue to contribute to the Spurs, and I honestly don't want to take the risk that Ginobili comes back with a vengence next season, on a different team.  I can't really articulate another reason beyond that it just feels wrong, but I honestly think that a player of Ginobili's ilk is definitely something the Spurs need and it brings an intangible aspect of mojo and chemistry to the lockerroom.  I'm sure Ginobili will be reasonable about what to expect in the form of an extension next season.  Spurs are good at drafting players that usually are (reasonable about their salary).

So what've we got to work with?  Well, simply put, we have the MLE (approximately $5 million), tack on another million or so for a veteran's minimum, plus upwards of $20 million in expiring contracts.  Rumors are swirling about how Rasheed Wallace is a significant possibility come this offseason.  While 'Sheed isn't exactly what the Spurs need to get younger (he turns 35 by next season), he's definitely what the Spurs want in another big man to play around Duncan.  He's solid in the low post, he's a decent mid-range to long-range shooter, he's effective as a defender for a big man, he's a shot blocking presence, a decent rebounder, and he's played for a defense-first championship caliber Detroit Pistons.  Finally, 'Sheed being 35, would likely not field offers anywhere near his current salary of $13 million per year.  If 'Sheed is serious about winning another ring, there's not much better place than the one team that has won the most rings in the past 10 years (4 since 1999, Lakers have 3, Pistons 1, Miami 1, Boston 1).  Timothy Varner mentions somewhere in his post that Spurs might be able to get Wallace for about $3.5 million of the MLE, ok, let's say he takes that much, what are the Spurs' other options now?

I've been pretty extensive looking through the free agency list, and honestly, for under $2 million, I don't know that we could sign anyone great, reasonably, I say we have a decent shot at someone like Walter Herrmann, who's been somewhat buried in the Piston's roster ever since the trade for Allen Iverson.  Herrmann is currently signed for $2 million, I don't know if Pistons want to keep him, but surely, the Spurs could afford to try to throw at least a little money at him.  Marquis Daniels is another intriguing option, but it's possible that he might be commanding a little more than Spurs could really afford.

Given the money situation, restricted free agents like Marvin Williams, Josh Childress, Paul Millsap, Brandon Bass are all a little out of reach.  Before we get any further though, so as not to utterly confuse you all, I suppose it would be best to sit down and hammer out what exactly the Spurs need.  Well, the obvious answer would be, any player not named Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, or Manu Ginobili, but it helps to have something a bit more concrete of an idea.  There are two dire needs that have shown up towards the waning stages of the regular season and well into the playoffs that seem to plague the Spurs.

First order of business I believe would be a legitimate big man to play next to Tim Duncan.  The Spurs believed that it would be young French draft prospect Ian Mahinmi, but he was injured during the course of the season and therefore couldn't play.  However, I don't really see Mahinmi being the solution in the near future.  While he continues to develop under Duncan, I think that as of now, he'd best serve  as a sort of energy man off the bench, much in the mold of Anderson Varejao or Brandon Bass.  While, I've yet to see him play, hopefully he gets some more playing time and experience in and it pans out.  However, the immediate need for a big man that can immediately step into a starting role and play next to Tim Duncan then still remains very real and very unfilled.  The roles have traditionally been filled with big men that were able defenders and able to spread the floor with a mid-range jumper, generally spreading the floor and allowing Duncan to work his magic in the low post.  For those that don't remember, this group includes David Robinson in the later years of his career, Rasho Nesterovic, and Fabricio Oberto.  While Kurt Thomas fits this role fairly well, his offense is somewhat too inconsistent to rely on, hence, Popovich went with Matt Bonner, sacrificing defense for some added offense.  While Drew Gooden might be serviceable, and while both he and Duncan can play on the block and pull out defenses, I'm not a fan of Gooden when he starts jacking up wing 20 footers.  The general consensus is that his game isn't versatile enough and too similar to Duncan's for him to be worth much money to hold on to.  Additionally, his weakness on the defensive end certainly doesn't help matters any.  

Enter Rasheed Wallace.  No one expects Wallace to carry a team anymore, and on the Spurs he won't have to.  He's a solid man-to-man defender, and between him and Duncan, they can split defensive assignments against opposing bigs.  While 'Sheed isn't inclined to play much in the low block anymore, he certainly is more than able when the need arises, and he won't have to really do it all that much.  Additionally, the need for his offense is generally something he's been doing a lot of lately (much to the frustration of many Detroit fans I'm sure), that is, shooting outside jumpers.  No one questions Wallace's ability to play solid defense in the post, and of course, Wallace, while not known to be a crusher, does add a much needed shot blocking presence outside of Duncan for the Spurs' frontcourt.  The biggest caveat with Sheed is simply that he might be something of a headcase, however, I think that two things mitigate the risk and make it worth taking; first, if 'Sheed wants to win, he knows he has to shape up.  Remember, he played for Larry Brown, I'm sure Greg Popovich is used to having to deal with antics as such after Dennis Rodman.  Secondly, Tim Duncan will still be there to help keep 'Sheed in line.

Now, I don't believe Rasheed Wallace to be the ultimate answer, but he certainly is the most realistic and I believe will help the Spurs tremendously.  Granted if I could choose any player flirting with free agency, I'd actually take Mehmet Okur over Rasheed Wallace.  However, given the situation, I highly doubt that Okur would opt out of his contract from the Jazz ($9 million) as he knows given the market he won't get anything more, and I highly doubt that the Spurs could offer him much, unless they pulled a sign-and-trade.  Varner declares the Spurs to be major players in the 2010 market, and he's probably better informed than I am, however, I still don't really see the Spurs making a huge splash.  However, I'm not going to complain if Spurs manage to somehow nab Chris Bosh via free agency.  Given that, if Spurs really are looking into the 2010 free agency, and that the only reason Mehmet Okur would opt out would be for a longer contract since he's not getting a bigger one, then I don't know that the Spurs would want to go for Okur.  While I'm rather skeptical about the amount of involvement Spurs will have in the 2010 free agency, I'm in agreement with Varner that should we tie someone up long term, at a fairly steep price, we might as well swing for the fences.  $10 million per for Mehmet Okur for the next 5 seasons isn't exactly my idea of a home run.

There are also a number of restricted free agents that might come cheap, names such as Paul Millsap, David Lee, Charlie Villanueva, and Brandon Bass have all played themselves into prominence.  However, being RFAs, I don't believe that their respective teams are willing to let them just walk, especially not at whatever the Spurs might be asking for.  Furthermore, I see all of these guys more as kind of hustle players, and therefore, I'm willing to let these guys walk for the sake of seeing how Mahinmi pans out.  I don't see any of these guys starting well next to Duncan, hence I generally tend to look more for players that are center eligible, and I mean on a normal team, not in a Mike D'Antoni offense.

Secondly, I believe that an upgrade in the wing position is needed, primarily the starting and backup SF position.  Currently, the spot is platooned between Michael Finley, Bruce Bowen, and Ime Udoka.  Now the commonality between the three is that they can all kind of hit threes, Bowen and Udoka are known more for their abilities on the defensive end, and Finley is just a slight upgrade offensively and downgrade defensively from the two.  I believe this to be one of the biggest needs of the Spurs, and to make the biggest impact, I believe that the Spurs will have to trade themselves into a good spot.  The biggest issue, is how the Spurs can't keep up with more athletic and younger teams, well to solve that, I would imagine the Spurs would just have to get more athletic and younger.  Ideally, you'd want someone that can defend and hit threes (i.e. Bowen and Udoka).  Now if I were to make a list of lockdown defenders, I could tell you that I don't see any of them falling into San Antonio in the near future, so, since we're likely not getting the likes of Shane Battier or Tayshaun Prince, I would propose that the Spurs alter some of the criteria, this would undoubtedly change the overall "feel" of the Spurs, but I think the long run make them better.  I'll take an above average defender, esepcially if the Spurs land someone like Rasheed Wallace.  I'm also willing to forgo 3 point shooting prowess to the level that said player can make enough to keep defenses honest.

That being said, I'm not sure that the free agency then is the best place in which the Spurs will be able to make a major splash and upgrade their roster, in which case they will need to do something via trade.  However, one name in free agency that I've continually brought up and will continually bring up is the name of Walter Herrmann.  I'm sure most of you are wondering who the heck I'm talking about, those of you that actually know me and have talked with me about basketball have surely heard his name mentioned somewhere in the course of conversation before.  Fabio, as he's known in the basketball world, has proven that he's effective when he gets minutes.  He's a little older, yes, turning 30 this June, however, he's on Detroit's books for $2 million and is a free agent this summer, and averages slightly more than 10 minutes per game, playing just under 6 minutes per during the playoffs.  He's shown on Charlotte and in Detroit that if he's given extended minutes he can definitely do some damage.  Additionally, he's a solid defender and can hit threes, he understands the team chemistry thing as he's won an Olympic gold medal playing with fellow Argentines Manu Ginobili and Fabricio Oberto, so I don't see chemistry being a huge issue.  He's not a guy that demands shots, and is someone that makes the most of them.  He's virtually an ideal Spur.  RC Buford, if you are reading this, and ignore everything else I say, FIND A WAY TO SIGN WALTER HERRMANN!!!

Anyways, there are a number of other options both in restricted and unrestricted free agency that seem to be fairly intriguing.  My sign-and-trade dream player that's semi-realistic would likely be Marvin Williams, who's definitely shown that he can step up and play big when he's called to do so.  The only reason I say semi-realistic is because of the ineptitude with which the Hawks' front office handled the Josh Smith and Josh Childress contracts last offseason.  Additionally, he and Raymond Felton are the only players picked top 5 in their class to not have a contract extension agreement already reached (the other 3 players being Andrew Bogut, Deron Williams, and Chris Paul).  Re-signing Williams should be something of a no-brainer for the Hawks, but it's possible that they re-sign Mike Bibby for way too much and can't afford to match offers made to Williams.  Of course, I doubt the Spurs would be the ones making that sort of offer.  Josh Childress would be another guy I'd look for, but I don't know that he's coming back from Europe quite yet, and again, Hawks still own his rights.

Another player to look at would be Marquis Daniels, who has played exceptionally well for the Pacers, in light of injuries to Mike Dunleavy and Danny Granger throughout the season (mostly Dunleavy).  He's rather expensive at the moment, so I don't really expect Indiana to pick up his $7.3 million team option.  If he can be convinced to play for less, then it might be worthwhile.  

Otherwise, the Spurs really have to look into various trade options in order to better improve their situation on the wings.  Milwaukee looks to be a venue of possibility, however, the only player I'd really look into in Milwaukee would be Joe Alexander, as he's little used.  While I'd rather have Luc Richard Mbah-a-Moute, I understand that Milwaukee probably would be a little unwilling to part with him.  Alexander is somewhat little used and I see a lot of potential there that the Spurs could really tap into.  I think a system like the Spurs is one where Alexander could really thrive in.  The main problem is that I don't really see the Bucks adding salary just to get rid of Alexander, as they're looking to cut costs to be able to re-sign Ramon Sessions and Charlie Villanueva.  Therefore, it's possible that they might ask the Spurs to take Richard Jefferson as part of the package.  While I'm not entirely against having Richard Jefferson on the roster, I am opposed to adding $13 million in salary for a single player while having to dump virtually all tradeable assets (it'd end up being something like Bowen, Oberto, Bonner, and Thomas for Jefferson and Alexander).

I'm actually not super opposed to taking on Jared Jeffries's contract on the condition we can land Wilson Chandler.  Bowen and Oberto for Jeffries and Chandler would be the scenario.  Of course, that likely tears a hole in any 2010 plans that the Spurs may have had. 

Another player I'm rather fond of would be Kelenna Azubuike.  Though I doubt the Warriors part with him, and would likely give the Spurs Jamal Crawford or Corey Maggette in the process, both at prices that I wouldn't want, it's still something to consider.  That being said, I wouldn't mind seeing Stephen Jackson back in a Spurs uniform.

All in all, there aren't a whole lot of options out there, so I'm kind of digging the bottom of the barrel here.  I highly doubt that the Spurs land Trevor Ariza somehow, but Jamario Moon might be another player that they decide to take a risk on.  Ultimately, I'm sure RC Buford has a plan worked out, and he probably has better scouts for younger players in D-League and Europe than I do.  As you can see, the Spurs need to seriously retool their roster.  The premise I think will be generally the same, fundamentally sound, defensive basketball, just how it's done will be somewhat different.  However, I think the Spurs, with the right moves, can definitely stay in the thick of it.

Non-2010 players and the 2009 Salary Cap

A lot of teams are saving up for 2010, which makes sense, especially considering the shrinking salary cap and therefore logically the decreasing luxury tax threshold, the number of teams starting to trim costs is drastically decreasing as well. I'm not one to normally number crunch, but since this seems to play a pretty big role in how rosters will ultimately be made up, in that, how big of a player teams can be in the free agency. While a number of teams are looking ahead to 2010, there are a good number of teams that can't afford to do that. These teams, I think, should make a splash in the 2009 market, which, while not as talent-loaded as the 2010 projected free agency, definitely has some bright spots. These teams generally, are the upper tiered teams who would be unable to create the cap space to compete in the 2010 market without severely crippling their current roster in some way. The three major names that come to mind are the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, and Portland Trailblazers. For these scenarios let's assume that the salary cap drops from $58.68 million to $57.3 million, which in turn drops the luxury tax threshold from $71.15 million to $70 million. Let's also assume that the MLE (mid-level exception) remains about the same at $5.585 though maybe it'll go down too.

Orlando Magic

The Magic are paying this season a salary of $68.4 million, 13 players signed, the minimum number required to be under contract in the NBA. If we look at next season, the Magic look to be paying $70.6 million, which might put them right at the luxury tax threshold, this is assuming that Hedo Turkoglu doesn't opt out. Rumors have Turkoglu, who turns 30 this season, wanting to opt out to sign one last contract, analysts guess that it would be around $50 million for 5 years, something honestly the Magic can't really afford. You have to note that with Turkoglu on the roster the Magic would only have 10 players under contract. The remaining nine would be: Jameer Nelson, Mickael Pietrus, Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, JJ Redick, Courtney Lee, Rafer Alston, Tony Battie, and Anthony Johnson.

Let's say now that Magic somehow manage to retain Hedo at what he's due, so say he doesn't opt out. They pay the $7.3 million remaining in his contract. So the magic are at $70.6 million, they're paying the luxury tax. They need to cut $13.3 million to get under the cap, and just a couple of million to get under the luxury tax. I'd imagine that they have a number of pieces that are movable and pieces they'd be able to convert into cheaper contracts somehow, those pieces being; Tony Battie, JJ Redick, Anthony Johnson, and Rafer Alston, all expiring contracts that don't really have a future with the team. However those four contracts would have to be turned into at least 6 plus whatever contract can be garnered using the $5.5 million MLE. Should Hedo be retained, the Magic in essence keep their starters plus sixth man intact, those being Nelson, Pietrus, Turkoglu, Lewis, Howard, and Lee.

Now that we have a clear picture of the general situation that Orlando has available, we can kind of garner moves that Orlando might be able to make in the 2009 off-season. Obviously, to Otis Smith and Magic fans, retaining the core of Nelson, Lewis, Howard, and Turkoglu are important, so let's look at the needs that still need to be filled. Well, generally most of the bench outside of the two guard spot, since right now the Magic (in my opinion) only are dead set at retaining 6 of their players. Pretty much all Magic will have to work with is an MLE and maybe trading off said expiring contracts, though retaining them is an option as well. Given the anticipated weakness of the coming draft, and the fact that the Magic really don't have a good pick in there anyways, Otis Smith won't be able to rely on a cheap late pick talent to bolster the roster.

I believe that the Magic will be able to resign Marcin Gortat relatively inexpensively (he made $711,517 this past season), so if they resign him at the minimum ($736,420) then it makes no impact on their future prospects. If the Magic are that intent on resigning Hedo, or if he doesn't exercise is ETO (early termination option) then Magic are looking to pay the luxury tax anyways, with the decreasing threshold. Granted they can try to cut some salary by making money oriented trades with expiring contracts, however, I would look to win now if I were the Magic. So if we look at the general needs of the Magic, one would be a rebounding presence next to Dwight Howard, in short, a "true power forward". While Rashard Lewis starts at the power forward slot, he's not a power forward, and Magic would greatly benefit by having a high energy spark plug kind of guy off the bench that could grab boards and play next to Dwight Howard.

One guy that I've always been pushing, but is a little on the expensive side, is Nick Collison. Would OKC take JJ Redick and Rafer Alston's expiring contracts for him? Maybe. However, given the Magic need to fill roster slots, a two-for-one might not be the best option. Nick Collison is one of those great, under-the-radar kind of guys that hustles, rebounds, and just does all the things you want a big man to do. Given that he's not really a great fit for the Thunder's youth movement, I can see him being moved this summer, for the right price.

Chris Andersen looks to be possibly a cheap and solid pickup. The Birdman is 30 but is playing well as a reserve behind Nene in Denver. He only makes $797,581 this season, so a small contract for a couple of years could really garner him becoming a big piece on the Magic bench at a relatively low cost. He's shown to be tremendously efficient, averaging 6.2 points and 5.4 rebounds in around 19 minutes of play. Efficiency-wise, that breaks down into 11.6 points and 10.3 rebounds per 36 minutes.

Another option that probably would end up being more expensive would be Chris Wilcox. It's hard to remember that Wilcox is only 26, and athletic, since his play thusfar has been, well, underwhelming to say the least. I'm sure he won't garner the $6.75 million he's making right now, but I think for a guy like Wilcox who can bang with the big power fowards and is ridiculously athletic, I think he would definitely call for a good chunk of the MLE which might mean that Orlando wouldn't be able to keep up with any offers that perhaps other teams could throw at him. Unless there was some locker room issue that I'm not aware of, Wilcox has also played with Lewis in Seattle, so maybe an incentive to play for a little less?

Drew Gooden is also worth looking at, but I believe that he'll garner about the MLE, so I'm not sure that Magic would pay that much for a guy they'd bring off the bench, which again, is the same concern they would have for Wilcox or Collison. I could dip into the restricted free agent (RFA) pool, but I have doubts that Magic would be able to competitively bid for players like David Lee, Paul Millsap, Leon Powe, or Brandon Bass.

Another need that Magic would probably like to fill would be that of a backup point guard. I don't really see them re-signing Tyronne Lue, so ideally, they want someone that would be cheaper than Alston (who's not really a backup anyways) and better than Anthony Johnson. A lot of people have been pushing for D-Leaguers since Jameer Nelson went down with injury, and while it might be interesting, I think it'll have to depend on who the Magic work out in the summer league. I'm not entirely positive on Lue's contract since he's listed as an ETO, but I think it's something the effects that his salary isn't guaranteed. Regardless, they could use an upgrade.

Looking at the FA list, there isn't a whole lot to choose from, not sure if they'd be able to lure Jack away from Pacers, or if he'd come super cheap ($2 million this year), and I think Nate Robinson has played himself to a pretty big contract, that and he's not really a PG either. Ramon Sessions or Raymond Felton would be awesome, but honestly, that's starting talent there, and there are probably teams with more money that are more desperate for a solid PG, that and, I don't think Milwaukee will let Ramon Sessions walk, at least not for cheap. So there go most of the good RFAs. I don't think Luther Head is the answer, but he's an option. Anthony Carter might be an option, but he's advancing in age (turns 34 in the summer), so can't say for sure how much his game might tail off, but he is doing a solid job backing up for Chauncey Bilups (5.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.7 assists in 24 minutes of play). Likewise the case for Brevin Knight, though he's been doing a somewhat less than admirable job in Utah (2.7 points, 1.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists in 14 minutes).

CJ Watson has been playing fairly well for the Golden State Warriors as of late, and he might be a viable option at a relatively cheaper price. It'll be interesting to see whether or not the Warriors decide to retain him. While he isn't a great PG, he's a solid defensive guard who can shoot decently, which definitely won't hurt.

Finally, it never hurts to have a backup wing, with Courtney Lee (or Mickael Pietrus, depending on who starts) they have a solid defensive minded player. I don't think they'll look to spend too much on this position, so maybe like an Ime Udoka or Matt Barnes would be sufficient, depending on who they sign in the other positions.

San Antonio Spurs

To be honest, the Spurs really don't have a whole lot in terms of flexibility. They're in slightly better shape in that they are under the luxury tax, but hard pressed to get under the cap should push come to shove. It makes it hard when your Big 3 makes up almost 80% of the salary cap. However, there are worse things than building around a core of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili. There are 7 players remaining on contract if San Antonio doesn't make the qualifying offer to Michael Finley (and they shouldn't); Matt Bonner, Bruce Bowen, Kurt Thomas, Fabricio Oberto, George Hill, Roger Mason, and Ian Mahinmi. Hill and Mahinmi are the future, and Spurs fans are all hoping that Mahinmi will fully develop next season once he recovers from injury, and playing with and behind Tim Duncan is defintitely a great way for a young big man to grow. Mason has definitely stepped it up, and is young enough (27) to continue making a difference for time to come, granted he has a questionable shot selection, but he's fairly cheap, and I think can integrate himself into the system more, while I would be hesitant on trading him, again, anything goes for the right price, only the Big 3 are truly off the table. That being said, all remaining contracts (Bowen, Oberto, Thomas, and Bonner) are all expiring, so they're more tradeable than before. Finley definitely has started to show his age, and I'm inclined to agree with most that he probably shouldn't play anymore, while letting him walk wouldn't put the Spurs under the salary cap (they'd still have $63.5 million on their payroll) it'd definitely keep them comfortably below the luxury tax threshold even should they spend their entire MLE.

Now if we look at the needs that San Antonio has, the main ones that jump out would be a solid big to play next to Tim Duncan, wings to replace the aging Bruce Bowen and Michael Finley, and some extra scoring outside of the big three somewhere between the two. Recently, the Spurs called up Pops Mensah-Bonsu from the Austion Toros to a 10-day contract, so we'll see how that pans out and if that works. If you were counting, the Spurs would have 10 players under contract, come 2009, so that would require them to sign 3-5 more players. Part of me is doubting that Tiago Splitter will ever play in the NBA and maybe Pops gives one of those slots back to Anthony Tolliver, who they tried out earlier this season. Which, while filling out their reserve big men slots doesn't really do a whole lot to fill their big men needs. Kurt Thomas is a solid defensive stop in a pinch, and Matt Bonner can shoot the three and spread the floor for Duncan while scoring a bit, but neither one is incredibly reliable on the other end of floor; Thomas will have another year of mileage and Spurs definitely want an improvement over Bonner in terms of size and defense.

In terms of big men, Spurs ideally would want someone that could play center, because while Duncan can (play center), it's probably not super ideal, especially as he gets older, you'd definitely want to limit the wear and tear on him. While the Spurs want to get younger, at the top of my list is definitely Rasheed Wallace. Granted Wallace is 34 going on 35, which is part of the reason Detroit is willing to part with him, however, I think that Wallace, who had expressed interest in playing for the Spurs, might be willing to sign for less (say a 2 year $7 million contract?). Granted the Spurs will have to make a few adjustments to make it work but Sheed brings everything that the Spurs are looking for to the floor (minus the age and the technicals). Wallace can shoot the three, and while not as great as Bonner, is good enough to be deemed a threat from long range, additionally, he's solid in the low post both offensively and defensively, and could probably split center assignments with Tim Duncan.

Another obvious stop plug that they could throw in that would be cheap would probably be Rasho Nesterovic, who has played with the Spurs before, and won in 2005 with Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker. That being said, he's on the wrong side of 30 and while he would be a great addition in the current season, doesn't look to be a huge improvement over their roster in the next, so it's sort of a last resort thing.

You know the big man market is kind of small when Zaza Pachulia is probably the best center available in free agency. However, say what you will about Zaza, he's a banger and is consistent. Don't know how much he'll claim on the market, but I don't know that Hawks would be able to keep him, he's also only 25 so there might be some upside. Hard to say, but definitely worth looking at.

Again for the reasons mentioned above, Drew Gooden and/or Chris Wilcox will be much coveted, however, I don't know that the Spurs would be able to match the offers they command. Both are arguably starting caliber PFs, but are they worth throwing the money at and keeping Tim Duncan for extended minutes at the center slot? Anderson Varejao may opt out as well, but I get the feeling that he's going to try to ask for more than he's actually worth.

In terms of wing players, ultimately it boils down to looking for a Michael Finley and Bruce Bowen replacement, meaning, 3s and defense. Additionally, I'm sure the Spurs would like to add a more legitimate scoring option outside of the Big 3, someone maybe to complement or step up over Roger Mason, who while he's been big, has also been somewhat inconsistent. This is where the free agency gets a little more interesting.

The first player I've been pushing for more playing time and I think would fit great on the Spurs is Walter Herrmann (aka Fabio). Herrmann has always had his minutes kind of fluctuate, but he's a great player, his size enables him to bother a lot of players on the perimeter on defense, and step in to guard power forwards in a pinch. I think he's one of the more underrated players in the league, and he's played before with Manu on the Argentinean national team. While he's only getting 8 minutes of burn on the Detroit bench, he's efficient at scoring when he does get playing time, his career per 36 minute stats boil out to 15.7 points, 6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 2.1 threes 46.4% from the field and 38.8% beyond the arc. Herrmann does turn 30 this year, but I think he's still got a couple of years left in him. He's only signed to a $2 million contract right now with Detroit, and I think the Spurs should really think about throwing maybe $2.5 million (Michael Finley's contract) to $3 million for 2-3 years at him in addition to playing time.

Another player to take a close look at is Marvin Williams. Williams will be an RFA, but he's an athletic wing player (6-8) who's young (22) and shows a lot of promise. Williams was unable to work out a contract extension with the Hawks, and has often been (perhaps wrongly) maligned as the draft bust from the 2005 draft class. I think he's a solid player, but it's hard not to look bad when you're drafted (2nd) before Chris Paul (3rd) and Deron Williams (4th) and not 7 feet tall (like Andrew Bogut, drafted 1st). He's commanding $5.6 million right now, but given the economy and shrinking cap, it's possible that a lot of players (FAs) this year will take a pay cut from last year. Hawks have a number of expiring contracts (Mike Bibby, Zaza Pachulia, Flip Murray, etc...) so it's uncertain who they'd retain. That being said, the failure of Williams to sign an extension may mean he's outstayed his tenure in Atlanta, and a lot of teams could push hard for him, while the Spurs might not have the resources to snag a guy like Williams, it doesn't hurt to try, and Williams is definitely a guy they should look into. Being this young Williams is averaging 13.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists playing next to the likes of Mike Bibby, Joe Johnson, and Josh Smith (and to some extent Al Horford). He's a solid spot up shooter, and has improved his 3pt shooting, and is a solid perimeter defender, which would make him a great fit on the Spurs.

Josh Childress is another interesting name to look at should he decide he's fed up with ball in Europe. However, given that Atlanta being unwilling to break the bank for him being the reason he left in the first place, there might not be a chance that Spurs would throw out a huge sum for him, and he may not want to come back given how teams probably would offer him an even smaller contract. Despite that, maybe the struggles of playing in Europe have made the 25 year old swing man long for the familiar turf of NBA basketball. While he doesn't have the bulk of Marvin Williams, Childress stands at 6-8 and possesses a long wing span, a respectable shot, and a fundamentally sound defense, I think definitely some the Spurs can work with.

Another former NBA player that Spurs could hope to lure from overseas might be Carlos Delfino, another Argentinean teammate of Manu's. I don't know that Toronto would be that pressed to keep him, though given their weakness in the wings, it's possible they'll match anything that any team would throw at him, again, he might be so unhappy with his role in the States that he opts to stay in Europe. Given that, he can shoot the three, which is something that Pops (Greg Popovich, not Pops Mensah-Bonsu) always looks for in his players.

Another wing player that stepped up big due to injuries (like Roger Mason) is Marquis Daniels. Daniels is 28 and playing excellent basketball, especially given the injuries the Pacers have had to Dunleavy and Granger. Not sure how he fits into the Pacer's future, but I think he could definitely be a solid fit in San Antonio.

Portland Trailblazers

The Blazers are one of the few teams who will have some sort of cap flexibility this coming off season. With Raef Lafrentz coming off the books and if they let Channing Frye walk, they'll have just shy of $4 million in cap space to work with. They're deep in several positions so they have a number of tradeable assets. I don't think Channing Frye is working out great for them so I don't see KP making a huge effort to match any offers thrown at Frye. The two weakest positions that the Blazers need to fill would be their point guard and small forward situations. While Martell Webster returning would certainly shore up their small forward spot, they can definitely do better. It's possible that Portland moves Steve Blake, Travis Outlaw, and Sergio Rodruiguez, and then use their MLE for another free agent signing.

One prominent name that I had in mind was Jason Kidd, who didn't seem to find his place back in Dallas. However, I believe that Kidd has the ability to improve and mentor the Blazer's young point guard of Jerryd Bayless. I posed this idea to Coup, one of the authors of The Rip City Project, and this is what he told me:

"The Kidd idea is great, IF you can get him to sign for a short midlevel contract, say 2 years with a team option for a third. That way we could sign him after using our cap space on younger options. The only worry for Kidd, assuming you can get him for a short contract, is his shooting. Imagine him taking all the open 3's Blake gets when Greg and LaMarcus are in the game...ugh. There is more merit than people realize to Kidd being around to mentor Bayless. It's one thing to have a sturdy vet like Blake teaching you the ropes, entirely something else to have a Hall of Famer take you under his wing. Defensively, you take the risk because you have Greg in the middle."

Granted Kidd is 35, so he's definitely not commanding another $20 million a year, but the IF, in Coup's statement does ring true, could you get Kidd to sign to an MLE? Another option might be Andre Miller, but the same question applies, and arguably Miller has more game left in him than Kidd.

As for the wings, I think the Blazers are looking for a young guy who they can develop with their core of Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Greg Oden. Hence, I proposed a trade for Rudy Gay, in compensation, trade Sergio (or Blake), Travis Outlaw and offer to take Marco Jaric's bloated contract off the books of Memphis. I also posed this question to Coup:

"As for Gay, I like but don't love him, just because I'm worried about the price. Outlaw and Sergio thrown in with our cap space for Gay and Jaric?... but I think they could deal with Jaric if they're getting Gay in return. Besides, after the extensions coming next fall, cap space will be a thing of the imagination. All in all, a lopsided trade thanks to the cap space is still the most likely way the Blazers make a splash."

A big caveat for Gay is that he doesn't seem to always be focused, especially defensively, but maybe if he has a solid core around him, he'd be able to shine.

As mentioned above, like the Spurs, I think the Blazers might want to take a long hard look at Marvin Williams. Again, he might be asking for more than the Blazers want to pay, and maybe the Hawks will match anything they offer. However, Williams would be a solid addition to any team, and right now, he's one of the best available options to fit the Blazers' need at small forward.

Things to Talk About...

I really don't want to recap the All-Star Game, it was sadly disappointing, not just the game, and the blowout the West had over the East, but the whole weekend in general.  I didn't get to see H-O-R-S-E, the NBDL Slam Dunk Contest, the Rookie-Sophomore Challenge, or the NBDL All-Star Game, so I might've missed out on some stuff, but what I did see was rather uninspiring.  Part of it might be that I just got everything wrong.

Here's my quick recap before I move on:

- Derrick Rose was not trying and he still torched everyone in the Skills Challenge

- Tony Parker managed to get a worse time than his all-time worse time for the Skills Challenge, he also was the only player to have gone through the thing before

- Rashard Lewis only got 7 points on the final tie-breaker of the 3pt Shootout

- The top shooters in the 3pt Shootout advanced to the final round on scores of 15 and 16, as a point of reference Dirk was eliminated with a score of like 19 last season

- Daequan Cook had won the Shootout by the 2nd cart of his final round

- Nate Robinson did all of the exact same dunks he did before and said that was his plan when he won

- Pau Gasol sabatoged Rudy Fernandez's chances of getting anywhere in the dunk contest

- Kenny Smith doesn't like Spanish people

- Sonny Weems got shown on international television, he's not a very good passer

- Allen Iverson got the same haircut Carmelo Anthony did

- Shaq likes dancing, still

- This was the only redeeming part of the game

Ok, I'm done.  More importantly, I think looming on the horizon is the impending trade deadline (Feb 19, this Thursday).  Within the next week we can probably expect to see a flurry of moves and it'll be interesting to see who goes where.  There are definitely several teams mentioned in making a move, so here's who I've been hearing about, and the what if's and how's and stuff like that if the trade does happen.

Teams Shipping:

Phoenix Suns 28-23 9th in the West

Talk of the Phoenix Suns making of move has flooded the internet via blogs, news, and podcasts ad nauseam.  Really, it has.  All this speculation, and if you watched Inside the NBA, you heard David Aldridge say that most of the trade would be for entirely financial reasons.  Additionally, you'll read all over that Suns owner Rob Sarver is the one pushing for it, and therefore it makes no basketball sense.  I'm in agreement with Chris Webber (via Inside the NBA) when he says that if Amar'e Stoudemire is traded, then the Suns are done, and not just for this year, but for a long time coming.  I like one thing Webber says, "If you trade Amar'e the team automatically gets older."  If you look at the core, Shaq turns 37 next month, Grant Hill by the end of the season, and Nash just recently celebrated his big 35.  Also note that Jason Richardson (28) and Leandro Barbosa (26) are not getting any younger too.  Granted, you still have a couple years you could rebuild around Barbosa and Richardson, but they're not really the centerpieces you build franchises around.  Furthermore, there isn't much youth to develop, I mean, no one has looked super promising out of Goran Dragic, Alando Tucker, or Robin Lopez, no one out of those have even looked semi-promising.  Jared Dudley and Matt Barnes are serviceable at best, but don't look for them to become All-Stars, ever.  It doesn't even matter if they're bad since all their picks have already been given away (the 2010 picks to Sam Presti of the OKC Thunder).

Reports also have anyone except for Steve Nash on the block.  I wouldn't be surprised if Steve Nash was also on the block too though.  Most rumors seem to imply that the closest team to a deal would be Chicago, which would revolve around a package of Tyrus Thomas, Drew Gooden (mainly for his expring contract), and a pick.  A lot of places say that the likely package would end up including Thabo Sefalosha and/or Joakim Noah, it'd have to include one or the other for the money to work, but not necessarily both.  If I were Kerr, personally, I'd ask for nothing less than both, otherwise, I'd take Noah over Sefalosha, you can always get away finding a plug-and-play shooter off-guard somewhere.  The problem is, Chicago probably wouldn't do that as that would glut their front-court of all bodies except Aaron Gray.  Now, let's assume the trade does go through, 4-for-1, Suns get Sefalosha, Gooden, Thomas, and Noah.  What does this do?  First, Gooden is a good fit temporarily next to Shaq as they develop Thomas, and no matter what you say, while both being downgrades from Amar'e, they're both upgrades from Louis Amundson.  Noah is a good fit behind Shaq in front of Robin Lopez, and Sefalosha fits in at the 2 behind Richardson with Barbosa going back to being a backup point guard.  The Bulls would be forced to start a frontcourt of Amar'e and Aaron Gray while having Nocioni back up the PF and possibly C spots, Michael Ruffin will finally get playing time and the Bulls might call up Rod Benson or something.  John Hollinger added a wins added per trade for each team in the new ESPN Trade Machine, Chicago is projected with a -9 wins in this trade while Phoenix gets +2.  Other locations rumored, would include Golden State, Sacramento, and Memphis.  However, it doesn't seem like anything Suns ask for is reasonable, or would reasonably get fair value in return.

With the firing of Terry Porter, there's no certainty that Suns will try to stay with a slow-it-down-pass-Shaq-the-ball kind of offense.  If they did retain that though, I would personally advise the Suns to wait until the offseason and try an Amar'e for Elton Brand trade.  I think they'd fit better in those teams, and the Suns aren't trading talent to a conference rival.  John Hollinger on the otherhand, believes that Iverson and Rasheed Wallace might be the answers.

New Orleans Hornets 30-20 6th in the West

Another team that has been rumored to be shopping players due to financial reasons has been the Hornets.  Apparently, it's gotten so bad (due to the economy) it's rumored that New Orleans might not be able to keep the Hornets, which would be really sad, since it is the Cinderella franchise.  Despite Chris Paul turning things around, word on the internet has Tyson Chandler being shopped actively around the league.  It's hard to think of somewhere Chandler can go that will merit some kind of value in return, understandably the 3 years (at $11 million per) left on his contract are pretty undesirable, but from a basketball perspective, the Hornets desperately need Chandler's size.  West isn't exactly the most imposing of power forwards and behind them the frontcourt is already thin, boasting the likes of Hilton Armstrong, Melvin Ely, and Sean Marks.   

Brad Miller might have been a possibility, but I don't really think the Hornets need a high post presence, what with David West's midrange game already.  Additionally, I don't find that Peja Stojakovic, Rasual Butler, James Posey, or Morris Peterson are really that good at slashing to fully utilize Miller's high-post passing skills, and Chris Paul certainly doesn't need it.  There's no basketball reason for the Hornets to trade Tyson Chandler, so there's nothing I can really say about it.

Sacramento Kings 11-43 15th in the West

It's no secret that the league-worst (behind Wizards by 1/2 a game) are trying to go young.  The core is obviously going to be centered around Kevin Martin, and the Kings probably want to develop promsing draft-picks of Jason Thompson and Spencer Hawes (whom Ziller of SacTown Royalty aptly dubbed "Shock" and Hawes).  This basically means that they want money and cap space.  The most obvious assets that Kings would like to move include but are not limited to John Salmons, Brad Miller, and Kenny Thomas (and maybe Mikki Moore).  Miller is kind of on his last legs but is potent from mid to long range and is a skilled high-post passer with high basketball IQ.  Salmons is a proficient scorer, a good defender, and someone who just asks for the ball too much.  That being said, it probably isn't hard to find suitors but might be a little difficult to figure out how to get something of value in return, it being pretty hard to figure out what exactly Sacramento wants.

To me it kind of just sounds like the Kings want to get rid of Salmons and Miller, they're out of the playoffs anyway, so I suppose it's not that bad of a stance to have.  My personal proposal would be Salmons and Miller for Oklahoma City's Earl Watson, Chris Wilcox, and Damien Wilkins.  Presti would probably ask for a pick which Sacramento might be unwilling to give up, but, Watson provides another PG to try for size since Udrih has been struggling, while Wilcox and Wilkins provide depth that teams could always use.  Salmons can start at the 2, providing wing play and defense that OKC needs, while Miller fills in at the center slot which OKC is so weak in.  Obviously more of a financial trade for Sacramento, since they only have 2 years of Watson and Wilkins with Wilcox as an expiring contract as opposed to 2 years of Miller and 3 years of Salmon.  I'm not really sure what the ultimate goal of the Kings front office would be, I'd imagine ultimately to cut costs.  If that's the case, personally (being the Spurs fan that I am) I'd have to propose this one...

Portland Trailblazers 32-20 3rd in the West

Due to Memphis and the whole Darius Miles thing, Portland no longer looks to be able to be a big player in the free agent market, which means that should the Blazers want to improve their roster, they're going to have to aggressively shop Raef LaFrentz and his free expiring contract.  If you're not sure what I mean by free, let me explain succinctly (I will try very hard to be succinct), you don't have to pay for it.  Since he's injured, insurance is actually paying for most of the contract which then promptly comes off the books by summer.  Rumors have been swirling of some sort of trade involving said contract and Travis Outlaw (and Sergio Rodruiguez) for Milwaukee's Richard Jefferson and Luke Ridnour.  Coup from The Rip City Project doesn't like it.  Honestly I can't say that I'm a fan either.  Luke Ridnour is basically a Steve Blake equivalent, and honestly, I don't think 2 Steve Blakes really is going to be the championship caliber point guard duo that Portland needs to win, Seattle tried it with Ridnour and Watson, not so good.  As Coup mentions, Portland might also want to look into developing rookie Jerryd Bayless if they don't end up trading him.  

If you look closely in the comments I have some correspondence with Coup regarding possibilities.  Wizards have said that they are discouraging interest for Butler, but IF they are going into firesale mode Coup says his most desired non-Danny Granger-related trade proposal would be something along the lines of Outlaw, LaFrentz, Rodruiguez, and Channing Frye for Caron Butler and Etan Thomas (and Darius Songaila?).  In short, what Portland is hoping for, is a not-too-old small forward that can hit threes, play defense, and/or be an offensive catalyst (create his own shot) outside of Roy and Aldridge, the emphasis on which part is more important I think shifts depending on how Greg Oden develops.  Another option would be a stellar point guard to run the show, basically, an upgrade from Steve Blake, which, of the PGs available (for trade), are pretty nonexistent.  While I don't think Memphis is willing to part with Mike Conley any longer, I discussed this with Coup, who says that it's still kind of a tossup in a Bayless and Outlaw swap for Conley and Rudy Gay.  Chad Ford seems to think that Gerald Wallace is the answer.  I've actually mentioned Gerald Wallace to Blazers bloggers (I think it was Coup as well) before, and the response as been somewhat unenthusiastic.  While Wallace is an immediate impact player on the defensive (and offensive) end if he gets into it, I believe that the Blazers are looking more for a shooter than a playmaker, hence why Martell Webster was such an essential piece to the starting lineup.  The most ideal player I think for the Blazers would be Tayshaun Prince, but Prince is not available, and were I Joe Dumars, I wouldn't trade Prince for just cap space either, nothing short of LaMarcus Aldridge or Greg Oden.  

In Ford's analysis of the trade field with the deadline coming up in 2 days, he basically says the Blazers are looking for a two-way small forward who can be a third scoring option next to Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge.  The main guys on the radar are Caron Butler, Richard Jefferson, Gerald Wallace, and to a lesser extent Mike Miller. I agree that with Greg Oden developing more as a defensive big man to guard the paint, having less of a pure shooter is becoming more feasible.  Out of the four mentioned, Miller is probably the best shooter but the worst defender, Wallace would probably be the greatest asset on defense, but also would probably be the worst shooter.  Personally I'd go with Butler, but I get the feeling that the Wizards would sooner part with Antawn Jamison than Caron Butler.  Richard Jefferson is intriguing, but I don't know that he'd be a significant improvement over Travis Outlaw.  While I think Wallace would definitely help the Blazers, I don't know that he'd be a huge difference maker, with him in the lineup Brandon Roy would definitely have to take more threes, additionally, Wallace is known to be somewhat reckless and fragile at the same time, which is always a caveat to take into account.  

Teams Shopping

San Antonio Spurs 35-16 2nd in West

I think if Manu remains healthy and everyone continues to play the way they've been playing (namely Mason and Bonner) through the post-season, then I say the Spurs stand a good shot at the title.  That being said, that's no reason for the Spurs not to look to get better.  The major rumor that has been swirling around is a major package of Roger Mason, George Hill, Bruce Bowen, and Fabricio Oberto for Vince Carter.  HoopsWorld has an article on how Tim Duncan doesn't like that trade.  Quite frankly I can't say I'm a huge fan either.  While it might be interesting and a matchup monstrosity in the fourth quarter of a tight playoffs game to have to guard a lineup of Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, Vince Carter, Tim Duncan, and Matt Bonner, it's still difficult to pull the trigger on that given how thin the Spurs already are.  Additionally, they're mortgaging a large part of their future in George Hill and to a lesser extent Roger Mason who are respectively 22 and 28 as compared to Vince Carter who turned 32 last month.  Sources say that Nets would end up having to cut three players to make the deal work, but that shouldn't be too hard for the Nets, it's surmised that they'd likely end up cutting Oberto and Bowen.

Another rumor swirling around is that Rasheed Wallace wants to go to San Antonio.  It's hard to imagine Joe Dumars taking a trade like that unless 'Sheed has become too big of a menace in the locker room, which I have a hard time believing after all this time on the Pistons.  Since Ginobili, Duncan, and Parker are obviously untouchable, Spurs would probably have to offer something similar to what they'd give for Vince Carter.  While I love the idea of getting Wallace, and the prospect of a Duncan/Wallace frontcourt gives me shivers, I can't really imagine Detroit being willing to just cutting a little bit of salary instead of just letting 'Sheed walk next season.  'Sheed will turn 35 before next season starts, so if he does think he has one more year in him, he might just go and sign with the Spurs for cheap next season.  Also, please note my plug for John Salmons and Brad Miller above.  

Cleveland Cavaliers 40-11 2nd in the East

One big thing that Cavs need is to get all healthy first.  I think Mo Williams is a solid second piece, but I personally believe he's good as 3rd option, not a second.  That being said, Cavs do have an attractive piece to offer in the form of Wally Sczerbiak's expiring contract.  While LeBron has been amazing, I don't believe that an offense that is carried by LeBron, Mo Williams, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas will be able to take it all the way.  Obviously there needs to be an improvement in there, which means, that they need someone to slide into the starting lineup and score.  The two biggest offensive liabilities in the starting lineup are Delonte West and Ben Wallace.  I personally think that Delonte West has definitely stepped it up significantly, and while West isn't a prolific scorer, he can still hit shots, unlike Ben Wallace, who's more than somewhat over the hill.  The answer then appears to be at the power forward slot.  

If you look at the first Chad Ford link I posted above (the one in regarding the Gerald Wallace trade), you'll notice that at the bottom of the article, Ford writes that Antawn Jamison might be a solution for Cleveland.  While Jamison isn't exactly the most imposing presence in the paint, he definitely good at scoring (something Ben Wallace doesn't do) and grabbing rebounds (something Ben Wallace does do).  It makes sense and would definitely make hte Cavs immediately a contender.  I also wouldn't mind seeing more of a low post presence being put next to Zydrunas Ilgauskas, but I think the most immediate solution that's more than halfway feasible definitely would be Antawn Jamison, if that does happen though, you can expect any hopes of anyone getting Caron Butler to be dashed.

Houston Rockets 32-21 5th in the West

This team was supposed to go all the way according to a lot of people.  However, Tracy McGrady's continual injuries soon wore thin and I think most people want him out.  The latest rumor, interestingly enough, shows that there's interest in McGrady's cousin, Vince Carter of the Nets.  I think Houston can offer a much more attractive package than San Antonio can for Carter, so the big question is what they do offer.  Some say some package featuring Ron Artest, others say that McGrady should be the centerpiece.

I personally think that the McGrady trade makes a little more sense, in terms of their game, Carter and McGrady bring a lot of the same things to the table.  Ability to attack the basket, shoot the 3, and make smart passes, all while somehow managing to be indifferent when on the court.  Ironically it hasn't really been Ron Artest causing the ruckus in Houston, so I don't know that he's a bad fit per se, however, it's obvious that given McGrady's history of chronic injury, he's not going to be reliably instrumental in getting them out of the first round of the playoffs.  As a lot of people have been saying as well, they play a lot better with him not on the floor.