02-16-2021, 05:40 PM
(02-16-2021, 04:58 PM)omahen Wrote: There were early reports that he might be available. But of course they would not be just giving him away. Mavs desperately need defensive leader. Luka will never be that, I don't see it. He just doesn't enjoy playing defense, it is all about offense for him. He can play good defense, if he wants to, though. I just don't see it in him to really want it for extended periods. Perhaps in the playoffs. So if you want the team to be good on defense, you need a loud and respected voice holding everyone accountable.
What about Phoenix? They made a CP3 move which made them good, but probably not really contender level good. On the other hand their CP3 window is extremely short and they might face a steep drop off in two seasons despite the growth from their young core. Ayton is nice but he is not ready yet. So here is a fun idea: KP+Kleber+Terry for Ayton+Bridges+Crowder+Saric (need the last two to match salaries)
That would be a great deal for the Mavs, except that Ayton is the best player in the deal, and the other three Phoenix are sending are likely better than Kleber. If the Mavs threw in a future first and a decade's worth of 2nd rounders, the Suns might not hang up prior to negotiating even further.