(06-09-2021, 05:27 AM)omahen Wrote: I have to say my first reaction to Orlando was negative, like they are rebuilding, not competing, so what would they do with KP.
I'll say right off the bat that I think this is unlikely. But it's the offseason, so unlikely trade ideas should fit right in.
First, a few assumptions for discussion purposes:
1. Orlando prefers a true rebuild to adding big salaries right now.
2. Orlando might be more inclined to trade Isaac than people might think. Because as much as people love him he's not a high-flying superstar and has dealt with even more injury problems than KP (only 136 games played in 4 years).
3. Dallas sees Isaac as the absolute best fit as a defensive monster alongside KP. (I'm struggling to think of a better fit, myself).
4. Dallas can easily deal Brunson for a 2023 1st rounder. (Heck -- depending on the position, they might even be able to pull late first rounders in 21 and 23). That frees up their future picks for any deals they'd like to make.
5. Dallas can easily find the flexibility to operate either over or under the cap if necessary. So straight-up salary matching is possible but not required depending on the deal.
With all that in mind, let's talk trades.
What if Dallas offered DFS (a similar type of player and Florida alumn on an absolute bargain contract) and multiple first rounders? What if they also included Kleber? Or some of the rookies? How much do you have to add before Orlando decides to just double down on the Vucevic trade and collect as many assets as they can to rebuild from scratch OKC-style?
And from the Dallas angle, I sorta like the thought of upgrading DFS to a similar defensive-minded guy who could man the 4 with no issues. Then they could just focus on signing as many guards and wings as possible while letting THJ man the 3.
Like I said, I don't pretend that it's very likely. Just trying to think creatively to solve the KP problem without automatically resorting to selling low.