01-15-2022, 07:58 PM
(01-15-2022, 07:52 PM)cow Wrote: I think where the JJB comparison kind of breaks down is that JJB always wanted to be here and seemed happy in his various roles. I can't say the same for Jalen and that's part of what makes Jalen GREAT. I'd almost be willing to bet, given the opportunity at matching contracts, Jalen would go to a team without a primary ball handler/facilitator. The more opportunity he's been given, the more he has shined. I don't think he see's a ceiling for himself and while that is wonderful, everyone has a ceiling.
The second way the comparison kind of falls flat is in contract. JJB's biggest contract was 4y/18m. Even if you modernize that deal, Jalen isn't going to make more than twice as much as JJB and I don't think he's twice the player.
If he were comfortable in that semi-starter/sixth man role, I'd be okay with an overpay but I don't think that role is his aspiration and we already have so many overpays.
I hated the JB pick and while I nitpick him, I still call him a poor man's CP3 as far as craftiness and being able to create shots for himself. I still think he leans more towards a complimentary player than a core guy but JB's busted through a lot of ceilings I've put on him, so who knows?
I don’t know if JB wants to be here or not but I am fairly confident that he will never pull a Simmons and will never be anything less than a professional and will play in any role he is given. I am not saying he is indispensable. Just that if I am giving up someone who clearly will be playing for a long time to come, I want some tangible talent in return.