Trade & FA 2024-25:

[Smitty]

Well, when they were discussing it, it didn't seem like they weren't talking about doing it for 1 game... but for the whole season. Can PJW serve as a POA defender for a game or two, or even for quite a few? I have no doubt that he can. For a whole season though? That's just asking for trouble because PJW may be slightly under-sized for his position but he's still a big guy.

I don’t think PJ will be the primary POA defender all year, but he absolutely will be at times. I think that role will be a combination of Grimes, Naji and Exum. This idea that that all 30+ minutes the big 3 play will all be at the same time is crazy to me. Also, Klay is not “washed” he’s not what he once was which was arguably one of the best defenders in the NBA but he’s still above average or average at worst. Defense is a TEAM stat and it’s up to the coach to stagger minutes and find the best lineup combinations against each individual matchup.