Well, this will be my first thread that I have ever, ever started. With that said, I think the Blazers can finish this retool job by finding away to acquire Joakim Noah. I think he would be the perfect fit for this team at the five position. He provides much needed toughness, defense and rebounding. Not to mention, his basketball IQ would help the overall team in that department. Are they able to renounce enough trade exceptions to put together a lopsided deal or put together a deal dollar for dollar that is worthwhile for the Bulls? Now that Batum has signed and soaked up most of the cap room, I'm sure making a deal work with the Bulls becomes a little tougher. What are your thoughts?
If Matthews went back to them, then we'd have enough room to take Noah. However, I'm pretty sure Tlong's right; I don't see Chicago parting with Noah for anything we'd be willing to offer. Maybe if they thought Leonard could be a decent replacement, then Matthews/Leonard for Noah might make sense. Otherwise, I don't see it happening.
Probably pretty tough to acquire. If you want a high level garbage man-defender Varejao would probably be more attainable?
Chicago was asking for a lottery pick and a team to take on most of the salary for Deng. IMO, Noah would be worth more since his contract is less, younger, and plays a position harder to fill. I do not see us giving what the Bulls would ask.
Bird in the hand. Given the choice, I'd rather have the expensive player that I know is Noah rather than the rookie that might replicate him. Unfortunately, I don't think we get that choice.
I think there keeping Asik. They got rid of a lot of salary they didn't have to, makes me think that is their plan.
Chicago's owner is being cheap again, guess we shouldn't be surprised. Jerry Reinsdorf willingly paying the luxury tax is like James Dolan actually making a good basketball related decision. As much as i'v ripped on PA i'm pretty glad to have him as an owner.
I think that door is closed now that we've used up our cap space. But I'd certainly offer Freeland, Leonard and a couple of picks. I think they'd happily give Noah to whomever took Boozer off their hands, but again, we can't do that now (without giving them Aldridge).
Stick to responding Ok, kidding. However if you think Olshey is telling the truth (at all) then Noah probably doesn't fit the plan. Olshey said again yesterday that the team really believes Leonard is the guy, and he doesn't want to sign someone that will make us good enough to lose by less (Or whatever). I think what he might be looking for is a guy in his 30's that can sign a 2 year contract and help Leonard learn the game faster. Someone exactly like Joel 4 years ago
