This franchise just gave Enes Kanter the same money as they let Wes Matthews walk for

Take Kanter and Wes's injury out of the equation he still isn't worth what the Mavs are giving him. I LOVE WES, but let's be real. No way would I have been in support of the Blazers giving him that much money. Especially with LA leaving. Kind of a no brainer to not even give him an offer when you know at least one team is going to offer $15mil+ per year. No chance man. Time to move on.....

 

I love the fact that Wes doesn't see himself as the third banana that he's been labeled here in Portland. He's filled that role nicely, and based on that role I'd agree that giving him that much money doesn't make sense. OTOH, Wes and the Mavs think that given a larger role he can become that kind of impact player. Given how he's overcome the odds throughout his career, I wouldn't bet against him.

 

That's an interesting take. Leaving the injury out of the equation, do I think Wes, if given the opportunity to be top dog, could warrant max money? Surely I can't question his determination and heart. Or his will. But based on what I saw of him healthy, at his best, I would say no for one simple reason - he really struggled to get his own shot. At least that was my perception. He was perfect in our system as a system player. Put him in a Harden type role and I believe he struggles big time.

 

I don't think he can do it the James Harden way (thank God, because if he got all floppy like Harden it would challenge my bro-love for him). I see a bigger diet of post plays and use of that patented step-back 3 point shot. Don't know if he can pull it off for sure, but I'm looking forward to seeing.