What will Neil do with Aminu?

Unless there’s a trade out there that actually moves the needle in a positive direction, I see Neil standing pat. Most of the trade rumors we’ve heard have been “meh” on the value scale. Some have been out and out stupid (CJ for Gordon comes to mind).

 

It depends on what we get back. @Scalma has mentioned several times trading Meyers and a 1st to Atlanta for Dedmon and Prince. In that scenario we upgrade Leonard for the rest of this year and add a potential young rotation player so the pick wouldn't be wasted.

 

It’s not wasting a pick. It’s using a pick to free up money for a better player in the summer, as well as possibly adding an upgrade to the rotation now. We need proven players more than we need a late first that may or may not turn into a player three years from now.

 

That wouldn’t be a dump. It’s a worthwhile trade.

 

Trading a first and Meyers for Terrence Ross would be a dump AND a worthwhile trade though.

 

The Blazers are so far over the cap that dropping Meyers’ contract doesn’t do anything as far as having more room next summer.

 

Yes it does. It’s the difference between the tax MLE and the non tax MLE. That’s a difference of almost $5M.

 

Ross would be a decent get if Harkless is going to continue to have knee issues. Trading Meyers would leave the Blazers awfully thin at Center though.

 

True, but at this point I’d rather offload Turner than Meyers.

 

Same but his contract and role within the team makes that more unlikely imo.

 

Neil will re-sign him, hopefully for $6-$7 mil/year, but probably $8-$9 mil/year.

Note:
This summer will be unique: about half the league will be FAs. Will another team offer Aminu big bucks ($10+mil/year) when they have so many choices? Unlikely, but could happen.

Another actually serious thought:
Without Aminu, who guards James, Kawhii, and the other talented players in the league? If you say Turner, I might cry, so please be careful with what you say!

 

Are you saying if we trade Aminu we need to bring Ruben Patterson out of retirement?

 

That’s obvious. Carmelo after we make a trade with the Rockets.

 

or maybe have Harkless be healthy? Dunno.

 

With so many FA this summer, there are going to be a LOT of players who sign for something far below their contribution rate. There really isn't a whole lot of money available on the market.... especially after the 4-5 main guys get their max contracts.

 

Making the full MLE even more valuable.

 

If Harkless was at all dependable, that would be the right answer. On paper, a Harkless/Layman pairing should be productive - but one is damaged goods and the coach seems to dislike the other.

 

Neil will give him a 4 year 70 million dollar contract.

 

Link?

Just like he gave Nurk?

 

He will sign a two contract 7/8 million per year.