No, we must blame Nate, we must blame Nate, we must blame Nate! I think if you say it enough, you start to believe it!
Unless Batum is dealt for other goodies, like Chris Paul. I'm determined that Portland should have the following lineup next year: Paul Roy Deng Okafor Oden And I do like Deng's game, even if I like Batum's more. Injuries seem to have stalled out his career a little, but he's still a good complementary player and quite young.
Except every trade I've heard for the likes of Chris Paul involve Joel, who we would have just traded away for... Deng.
At face value I'd agree, but if Deng really were acquired then I anticipate Nic would be outgoing to find a player of considerable skill at a position of need (probably point guard). Miller, Roy, Nic is good ... <all-star PG>, Roy, Deng is maybe better?
If we hadn't just drafted Babbitt (who appears to be a small forward) I'd be much more willing to have both Deng and Batum on the roster. Deng is only 25 and he's an above-average player. Is he worth his contract? No. But can he help the team, even coming off the bench? Sure. I'm a guy who likes Bayless, but with the promise that Williams shows, and the lack of development of Jerryd as a PG, I think giving him up to take on Deng is worth it. Or would be. If we hadn't just drafted Babbitt. I could live without this kind of trade happening, but I could also talk myself into liking it if it happens... Ed O.
I think you can trade him, but only by himself (with no other Portland players in the deal). The Chris Paul is not going anywhere (staying in New Orleans) rumor is confirmed.
Confirmed rumor. Not confirmed trade. If we get him, he can be traded by himself immediately, or as part of a package in two months.
If this trade goes through there better be a follow up trade that nets us an elite pg. Specifically Chris Paul because otherwise fuck getting Deng. Seriously unless we net one of Rondo, Paul or D Williams this is a horrible idea. Hoping there is a follow up trade or that this is bullshit (my guess).
Not that I seriously disagree with you, but why? IMHO, Deng will give us much more production and benefit than (EDIT: Bayless)+Przy will over the next 4 years.
Hmmm, I agree with that ... but let's say after the lockout the league institutes a hard cap and it means the difference between resigning a key player the team really likes or letting them walk because you can't afford to keep him, all because you are on the hook for 14 million per year to pay Deng for above average, but not all-star level production.
