2021-2022 AROUND the NBA: GSW Champs [ARCHIVED]

[KillerLeft]

Turner is an elite rim protector I agree. But KP is what 80% of what Turner brings? Is an extra 20% worth a massive asset investment? 

Unless we can turn KP into another wing that can create their own shot while simultaneously getting Turner, I just don't see why the Mavs would go out of their way in swapping Turner for KP when they are so similar.

I see three potential reasons (could be wrong about some of this, but it's all my honest take):

1) KP has been better on D this year. Better than I ever thought he'd be again. I'll take a huge helping of crow over that. BUT, he's still not going to be anything but a defensive liability against a good team in the playoffs who understands how to spread the floor and attack his feet. That, imo, is the safest bet that will be made on this forum today. I'm not positive Turner's effectiveness on that end lasts all the way through the playoffs, either, but I feel like that "extra 20%" you're talking about might just extend a round or two farther. That's not nothing, imo. 

2) This one assumes that Turner would WANT to play off of Luka on offense (the Mavs had better not assume - they'd need to know). IF he does, then even as a less talented, slightly more limited offensive player, he'd open up this offense in ways Porzingis just refuses to do. 

3) The financial situation with Turner is much more in line with the idea of being able leave him on the bench through important stretches when absolutely necessary, which in reality is probably a situation that will come up in some big games down the stretch and at least one playoff series with either player. 

Just how I see it. I flat out believe the Mavs with Turner are better than the Mavs with KP.