03-22-2021, 11:47 PM
(03-22-2021, 11:28 PM)SkenfromLMF Wrote: I get the suspicion that Dallas keeps Cleveland engaged in trade talks with the goal of driving up the price so that Cleveland does not let him walk to a WC team. I can live with Drummond going to the Nets (though Harden going long stretches with less talent available than Houston amuses me), but IF he were to sign with one of the LA teams (especially the Clipps) I would begin the process on some ulcers. I think Donnie is trying to keep Drummond in play just to keep assets away from the teams in front of us.
Chris Arnold is of the mindset that JJ is here to keep teams honest in how they play Luka without losing KP. So using his logic, IF Dallas trades Johnson they would have to find a Montrez Harrell type to provide the enforcer effect against Morris et al.
I don't think the idea that Dallas is trying to "drive up the price" on Drummond is accurate at all.
I think everyone except Dallas is only interested in Drummond if he's bought out.
I think Dallas is only halfway talking to CLE about Drummond, and they're only interested if they see a looming need for cap room in 2021 (in which case, it's Powell and Johnson for Drummond. Or thereabouts.). CLE will wait for Dallas - that's better for the Cavs than buying him out - and Dallas is looking for better deals as well as to see if Collins stays in ATL (which would create a potential use for having the cap room).
Johnson does have value as an enforcer, if one is needed. NO ONE would mess with him - he's the NBA's baddest bad azz. His presence literally defuses an opponent's desire to cross the line.