05-21-2024, 08:39 PM
(05-21-2024, 08:30 PM)Jakeospikez Wrote: Nah def don't trade Gafford. This team deserves the chance to mostly run it back with another year of development from the young players. Gafford doesn't have to invade on Lively's minutes, Lively starts next season. He's barely above MLE and if he's bad for whatever reason he just doesn't get played a lot that game. Lively had almost 30 mins in game 6. I wouldn't overreact to Gafford's playoff +/-, I'd rather say he's not playing optimally because of all of his injuries he's been dealing with. He almost broke Wilt's record and a ton of those fgs weren't dunks. His close range touch and scoring is elite. He has been missing a lot of those in the playoffs and based on what I saw I wouldn't say it's just the big matchup. If he comes off the bench he should be the one feasting on the other team's backup big as well. He can spot start or play heavier mins if the other bigs are out. Maxi doesn't have much tread on the tires left and he can't even play a ton in the regular season without breaking down so what are you gonna do? OMax would need to grow up quick or you trade for another Maxi type player. Also don't forget Gafford is young and still has room for growth. I'd look elsewhere to make room for DJJ.
It's certainly possible that he's dealing with some injuries, I'm sure a great many players still in the playoffs are. Most, even.
I certainly agree that might benefit from a training camp and increased familiarity with the team's defensive systems.
I am all for keeping him around if the new MBT deems it the correct move.
I just think he'll never be a great defender at the 5, especially in the context of the modern game, and that Lively is clearly the guy you want, moving forward. A $12 Million backup might be a luxury that can be forgone, if necessary.