http://espn.go.com/nba/dailydime/_/page/dime-130201-02/eight-trade-truths-deadline Raptors president Bryan Colangelo, in the wake of the Gay trade, is now openly acknowledging that he's shopping former No. 1 overall pick Andrea Bargnani. The Lakers' interest in Bargnani remains a matter of debate in the midst of the Italian's worst-ever season by far, but the not-for-public-consumption message that continues to emanate from Canada is that Toronto remains intent on pursuing Gasol even after trading for Gay.
I guess Javaris Crittenton and Mike Miller are next on his list of 2008 Grizzlies. Gasol is owed about $38-million over this season and next, a quarter of which has already been paid by the Lakers. I'm not opposed to taking a flyer on him at this point so long as it doesn't involve trading Ross or Valanciunas. The rumoured deal is Bargnani/Johnson or Bargnani/Fields. Bargs might actually be a fit next to Howard.
if we trade johnson then we're pretty thin at the forward spot, so I hope that doesn't happpen. Plus, the way he's been progressing this season, he's become the perfect backup big.
Amir Johnson can be our starting four going forward so long as Val develops a well-rounded offensive game. I think he's gotten that good. Pau Gasol is starting to look broke down at 32. Not a good sign but not a long term contract. Hate to lose AJ for him but wouldn't count it out.
Wouldn't give up more than AB and Fields. No way would I give up Amir, he has arguably been the best player on the team this season. And he's a real pro, doesn't care if he starts or comes off the bench, doesn't need plays run for him. He just goes out and plays. Every team needs a player like that. I would try to make a run at Josh Smith although he won't come cheap. Would people consider giving up Ross to get him?
Seems like a mistake to hold onto a prospect rather than get an established star. Ross could wind up being a great player in the league or the next Desmond Mason. If the right deal came along it would be reasonable to move Ross and/or Valanciunas. Nobody on this roster should be untouchable. That being said, a broke down 32-year old Pau Gasol isn't going to pry Ross. Josh Smith, maybe, if we could sign him to a reasonable extension. His contract is expiring.
I would hesitate to give up Val in almost any deal that doesn't get us a star. Maybe I'm looking at him with homer-glasses but its hard to find a centre of his caliber on his rookie deal. I would give him up for someone like Cousins but not for someone like JSmith. I agree about Ross though.
