02-13-2026, 02:32 PM
(02-13-2026, 08:55 AM)DanSchwartzgan Wrote: I tend to agree, but I've not locked in on an order yet other than Mikel Brown is definitely 8th for me. I like the theory of pairing Ament with Flagg, but I'd have a hard time picking him over Wagler or Flemings. I need to see more from both, but I could see a world in which I'd take Wagler over Flemings and I really don't know what I'd do if I had the 4th pick. Wilson has more upside (and probably more bust potential) than those immediately after him. There is a bust or two lurking somewhere in the top 8. There always is.
Staying ahead of Memphis...especially if we both move up...brings into play them trading their lottery pick with 17 to swap places with us. We've only won one more game than Utah and now the NBA is scrutinizing what they are doing more closely. Heck, even Indy and NOP are 5-5 in their last 10. We owe the road a lot of games. So, I'm hopeful we might be able to move up at least one more spot in the lottery odds.
I'd be OK with trading down in a specific situation. It wouldn't have to be a 2026 pick (like what I mentioned with Memphis). If we had a 2027 that was sure to convey, it would open up the ability to trade our late 26, our 28 and two picks in 30 (all of which are essentially fake firsts). Between that and our TPE's, we should be able to get another real NBA player to add to the roster. BTW, I like your Traore idea. Adding him and a 2027 pick to move down a spot or two is what I'm talking about depending on who we'd be giving up to do that. Brooklyn has two picks in 2027. If getting the better of those picks and Traore to move down still allowed us to draft someone I really like, I'd have to take the call. It is more than just the players involved as securing that 2027 pick would free up the ability to do other things if/when the opportunity were to arise.
It's a risky bet depending on how far we were to trade down. The GM making the pick would have to be absolutely sure they're able to nail this situation, or they could be looking for a new job if it doesn't work out. I like the thought, though.