TDL Archived: The 2nd Rnd Pick Yankee Swap

[mvossman]

Honestly, I'm pretty torn on that, too. I'm not enthusiastic about paying a pick for Clarkson, don't get me wrong, but on the other hand, I honestly think the roster is in a place where a guy like him could make a huge difference. 

They have the shooting needed to create space (DFS, Kleber, THJ, Wood, Bullock, Bertans). There's reason to hope the team will be a little better defensively, even relative to last year (though I'm a bit more skeptical than some about this). And, I expect that Luka and Dinwiddie will BOTH have phenomenal seasons, if healthy. 

I really think they're missing that 3rd creator, not because they absolutely MUST play two at a time, but because there will be nights when the 3rd guy has to play well in order for the team to win. There will be injuries, rest nights, nights when Luka and/or Dinwiddie just don't have their A-games, etc. I was really excited about a full season of Dinwiddie in that 6th man role, and while I feel he'll be nice as a Brunson replacement, I just don't see how they then replace Dinwiddie (the 6th man version). 

If I'm the Mavs, I'm at least talking with Ainge about Clarkson.

I agree with all of this.  I think Clarkson makes them better.  But where are his minutes going to come from?  I would argue mostly from Timmy.  Clarkson is a better player than Timmy and a better fit, but is the difference worth a first?

I don't think Clarkson puts us into contention.  I think we still need that number two (one that plays defense), and the only reasonable way to get him is via a bushel of picks.  Sending one out for Clarkson makes that effort more difficult.  And we can't use Clarkson in acquiring that player because he can walk.  In fact, there is a reasonable possibility we send out a first for a one year rental.  If we are sending out firsts, I'm aiming higher.