Out of the Rafters at the Q
Out of the Rafters
- Joined
- Aug 18, 2008
- Messages
- 26,113
- Reaction score
- 55,544
- Points
- 148
Updated as of 2/2/2010
Well, it's been a while since I've made one of these, let alone been an active member on this board. I've been lurking every day, but I just haven't had time to post. If long posts and statistical analyses frighten you, you may just want to skip this. However, if you do manage to stick around and read through this, I'd, as always, greatly appreciate your feedback, and I'd be willing to alter my analysis to include quality ideas you bring up.
The state of the team:
PG:
At the point guard spot, we have our long-term starter in Mo. He's meshed with this team better than anyone could have imagined. He truly is one of the best shooters in this league, and his strengths shine playing next to LeBron. Backing up Mo is a question mark. Delonte is probably our most capable backup PG, but he's also our best SG. While Boobie, on the other hand, really started to show up this year, shooting close to 50% from three and playing his best defense to date. However, he hasn't been able to crack Mike Brown's rotation. However, while we may not have our ideal backup point guard on this roster, it's safe to say that having Mo starting (and playing around 38-40 minutes in the playoffs like he did last year) and Delonte/Boobie backing him up, point guard is not a critical issue at this point. I do not expect the Cavs to make a move to bolster the point guard position this season.
SG:
Shooting guard could potentially be our area of greatest need. We have Delonte, who was phenomenal last year, and has been playing better and better this year. However, between his mental issues, and his pending trial, we don't even know if he'll be able to play come the postseason. Anthony Parker has been a solid three point specialist, but he brings almost nothing else to the table. He's an alright SG to have for depth, but he's not an NBA quality starter that you want guarding Wade, Kobe, or Vince Carter. I thought Danny Green was NBA ready coming out of the draft, but apparently Mike Brown has different ideas. As far as this year's playoffs are concerned, Danny Green is a non-factor.
The Cavaliers have to prepare for the worst. What if Delonte is unable to play in the playoffs? This leaves Anthony Parker as our only viable SG. The shooting guard is an area of extreme need on this team, and I expect that obtaining a long-term solution at this spot is one of the areas the Cavs will try to address before the trade deadline.
SF:
This LeBron guy is kinda good at basketball. He's no Air Newble, but I'd keep him around. With Jamario Moon backing him up, and Jawad's inspired play as of late, we could always use a better backup SF to allow LeBron more time at PF, but it is hardly an area of need. That being said, if the right deal comes along to add a talented SF to this team for very little, I think the Cavs have to pull the trigger. We could play the new SF at SG, or we could use him as a super sub off the bench allowing LeBron more time at PF.
Bigs:
I've decided to lump our PF and C situation together, because, on their own, the situation appears a lot more solid than what we have. If I were to tell you that we'd have the leading +/- per game player in the NBA, with J.J. Hickson and Leon Powe for depth, and the potential to play LeBron at PF, you could easily think that we don't need to address this issue. However, our bigs situation needs to be looked at in pairs.
Z/AV make a phenomenal duo. Z's ability to stretch the floor plays incredibly well with LeBron's ability to drive to the hole, and Andy's craftiness around the rim. On defense, Z's still a factor due to his length and rebounding, while Andy keeps getting better and better and is a legitimate all-NBA defensive team candidate. This frontcourt duo also has the best +/- out of our possible frontcourt pairs.
Shaq, however needs a PF next to him who can do what Z does for Andy. Shaq operates in the post, and while his passing has made JJ and Varejao usable PF's next to him, having a PF who can stretch the floor would make Shaq, and the rest of our offense, so much more effective. So, while JJ is developing, and Powe is a very very capable player who was an absolute steal this offseason, neither is really a great fit next to Shaq. This is why I expect the Cavs to go after a PF who can stretch the floor. Along with a shooting guard, a power forward is one of this team's most critical needs to win a championship.
Summary:
The Cavs needs are:
- A shooting guard, because as well as he fits here, we can't guarantee Delonte will be able to play come playoff time, and Anthony Parker is not the answer.
- A power forward who we can pair next to Shaq. Being able to stretch the floor is a necessity, and athleticism and good defense are very nice attributes to have.
Possible other options include:
- A starting quality SF, that we could either play at the SG position, or use as a super sub, playing 30 minutes a game on the wings, and allowing LeBron more time at the PF position
- A true backup point guard because Boobie has not been able to crack Mike Brown's rotation
- A long-term center. Shaq and Z are both getting old, and it would be nice to have a center under the age of 30 that isn't Andy.
Trade Assets:
So, what pieces do the Cavs have to get these needs addressed?
- Shaq's 21 million dollar expiring contract could be used in the right trade. However, 21 million is a large number to work with, and Shaq's ego is a dangerous thing to toy with. I personally don't really see Shaq being moved, unless it's an offer Ferry can't refuse.
- Z's 11.5 million dollar expiring contract is one of the most appealing expirings in the league this year. Not only could the Cavs use this to give someone major cap relief, but the ability for the other team to buy Z out could save them even more money, and result in the Cavs not really losing anything.
- Wally in a sign and trade. Wally could be signed to a deal that is only guaranteed for this year. This would allow us to sign Wally for up to $16,530,000 before he became a BYC contract. Having a 16.5 million dollar expiring is another huge asset this team could potentially use to bring in a solid contributor.
- Delonte West. Delonte is only making 4.2 million this year, and his 4.5 million next year isn't fully guaranteed. While he is a terrific fit here, his mental issues coupled with his legal troubles make him a very unreliable commodity for this year... which could unfortunately have him packing his bags. If a team is requiring talent, not just expirings, expect Delonte to be one of the names seriously considered.
- J.J. Hickson. We see a young PF who really can't do much for us this year. Other teams see a young PF who's already starting and has freakish athletic ability. If trading Hickson brings us back talent, don't expect Ferry to even hesitate, especially when you consider that we have Powe waiting in the wings, who does the same thing JJ does, only better.
- Draft Picks. We have them. They're going to be late picks. Other GM's want them in trades just to save face. A trade sounds a lot better to fans when there's a first round pick involved. I expect Danny to try to hang on to our picks, but if push comes to shove, they are certainly tradeable commodities.
Trade Targets (SG/SF):
So, who's out there that the Cavs could acquire to fill our needs at SG and PF? Here are a list of potential targets to play on the wing for us:
Kirk Hinrich
John Salmons
Rip
Tayshaun
Raja Bell
T-Mac
Mike Dunleavy
Ryan Gomes
Wilson Chandler
Thabo Sefolosha
Andre Iguodala
Kevin Martin
Caron Butler
Mike Miller
In order to dwindle this list down, we can scratch Kirk Hinrich's name off the Cavs' interest list. Hinrich has struggled this year at SG, and is really a PG, which the Cavs aren't looking for. T-Mac has played a whopping 46 minutes this season. Pair his injury troubles with his diminishing play the past few years and his terrible, terrible playoff record, and then throw in his 22 million dollar salary. The only way T-Mac is joining the Cavs is if he's bought out by Houston. Tayshaun has only played in 9 games this season and is now re-injured. He's injured, he's a SF (not a SG) and he's only averaging eight points and 20% from three this season. While he is a nice player, he just doesn't fit in with what the Cavs are trying to do this season.
Raja Bell is just getting up there in age, and he wouldn't be a better solution than Anthony Parker. Wilson Chandler is a SF/PF, which isn't really a position we need, and the Knicks value him too highly for us to work a favorable deal for him.
Now let's break this list down into two categories:
Star SG's:
John Salmons
Rip Hamilton
Andre Iguodala
Kevin Martin
Caron Butler
Mike Miller
The rest of the pack:
Mike Dunleavy
Ryan Gomes
Thabo Sefolosha
John Salmons:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 207 lbs.
Age: 30
2009/2010 Salary: 6,429,151
2010/2011 Salary: 5,808,000 (Player Option)
Injuries: John Salmons is one of the healthiest/toughest players in the NBA over the past few years. Since 2005-2006, he's played in 82 , 79, 81, and 79 games each season. This year he's played in every game so far. He had a strained groin last year and still played it out without missing a game.
Offense: Salmons's numbers are down this season, and a lot of it is due to a lack of spacing in Chicago's offense. His numbers last year included shooting 41.7% from three and 47.2% from the field, while still scoring 18.3 points per game. He is a very efficient scorer, and was Sacramento's primary option for a while last year. He's also a capable passer, averaging 3.7 apg last season when he was in Sacramento. His numbers this year, however, have decreased to .405 from the field and .385 from three while only averaging 13.3 points per game. You can interpret those numbers however you wish, but it is my belief that in a more structured offense that relies on spacing (like ours), Salmons's numbers would quickly return to what they've been the past couple of years.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 34.7 | 13.3 | 2.5 | 1.49 | .405 | .385 | .470 | 76% | .450 | 13.9
'08-'09 | 37.4 | 18.3 | 3.2 | 2.1 | .472 | .417 | .543 | 73% | .500 | 17.2
Defense: John Salmons is a very capable defender, just ask any Sacramento or Chicago fan. He has the size and athleticism to match up with the Carters, Bryants, and Allens of the world. He's also averaging 1.4 steals per game this season.
Summary: Salmons is a pretty solid character person. He is a solid rebounder at the SG position who can do everything. He's a solid passer, and has the size and athleticism to play solid defense. He's a very efficient scoring option on a very reasonable contract. His downsides are that his shooting has declined this year, and he's 30. I feel that his shooting has declined due to Chicago's poor offense, and him being 30 isn't a big deal considering we don't have to keep him past next season.
Rip Hamilton:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 193 lbs.
Age: 31
2009/2010 Salary: 11,375,000
2010/2011 Salary: 12,500,000
2011/2012 Salary: 12,500,000
2012/2013 Salary: 12,500,000 (Not Fully Guaranteed)
Injuries: Rip has had a few nagging injuries over the years. Since 04-05, he's played in 76, 80, 75, 72 and 67 games. This year he's already missed 27 games with an ankle injury, a hamstring injury, and illness. While Rip isn't the healthiest player in the league, he hasn't really had a big injury, just a bunch of smaller ones.
Offense: Rip's numbers are way down this season. He's shooting .388 from the field and just .214 from three. While this is obviously due to his injuries this season, Rip's numbers were only .447 from the field and .368 from three last season. So, while I think that Rip is still slightly better than his numbers the past two seasons, it's also very likely that his age is starting to catch up to him. To his credit though, Rip is still a very capable passer, averaging 4.4 assists per game.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 35.3 | 18.9 | 4.4 | 2.22 | .388 | .214 | .419 | 85% | .382 | 14.2
'08-'09 | 34.0 | 18.3 | 4.4 | 2.46 | .447 | .368 | .480 | 84% | .448 | 18.7
Defense: Rip has always been a very good defender. He has the height and athleticism, as well as the hustle. However, it is yet to be seen if his recent injuries, combined with his age, will cost him a step or two.
Summary: If you're looking for someone to penetrate opposing defenses, Rip is not your guy. 85% of his shots are jumpers. While he has been a very good jumpshooter historically, this past season he has looked awful when he's been able to play, and last season his numbers were down as well. I just feel like his age and injuries have caught up to him, and that's not the type of player I want to see the Cavs commit about 50 million to over four years. In his prime, Rip could wear out opposing guards by constantly running all over the court. I'm just not sure he is still that player. Furthermore, his offense has traditionally come curling off screens and such. I'm not so sure how well he'd fit in with our offense, where we want our guards out by the three point line.
Andre Iguodala:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 207 lbs.
Age: 25
2009/2010 Salary: 12,200,000
2010/2011 Salary: 12,345,250
2011/2012 Salary: 13,531,750
2012/2013 Salary: 14,718,250
2013/2014 Salary: 15,904,750 (Player Option)
Injuries: In 2006-2007, Iggy missed 6 games. Those are the only games he has missed so far in his career. He is currently playing on a healing ankle.
Offense: Andre Iguodala's shot mix is almost exactly the same as LeBron's. Over the past two seasons, 64% of LeBron's shots have been jumpers, and Iguodala's mix last season was the exact same. This year, his jumpers are up to 70% of his shot selection. Unfortunately, Iguodala's jumper is even worse than LeBron's. Over the past two seasons, he shot an eFG% of .388 and .414 on jumpers, and .307 and .323 from three. He's also been much more successful at the SF position, which is one of the reasons Philly fans would make him available. Iguodala's strengths come from slashing to the hole, and creating off the dribble. He is an above average passer, but he also turns the ball over.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 40.0 | 17.8 | 5.9 | 2.75 | .427 | .323 | .476 | 70% | .414 | 20.8
'08-'09 | 39.9 | 18.8 | 5.3 | 2.71 | .473 | .307 | .507 | 64% | .388 | 20.9
Defense: Andre Iguodala has the talent to be a very good defender in this league. Up until this point, his defense has just been average, but in our system, under Mike Brown, I feel that he could easily become an above average defender. He seems to gamble too much on defense for steals, but I believe that his athleticism and defensive skill can be channeled into becoming more of a lockdown defender on the Cavs.
Summary: Iguodala is a great ballhandler, slasher, and small forward. Can he play an effective shooting guard? People in Philadelphia tend to not think so. However, I have a feeling LeBron and Iguodala could make it work on the wings together. While I'd like a shooting guard who can shoot from the perimeter at a very effective clip, Iguodala's upside and talent are just too great to pass up. If he's available, we should certainly try and pick him up. He'd be our starting shooting guard and second option for years to come. Even if he's not the perfect fit, he's a large improvement over what we have at the position.
Kevin Martin:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 185 lbs.
Age: 26
2009/2010 Salary: 9,680,170
2010/2011 Salary: 10,600,005
2011/2012 Salary: 11,519,840
2012/2013 Salary: 12,439,675
Injuries: Kevin Martin is injured... a lot. Only once in his career has he played more than 72 games. In fact, only twice in his career has he played more games than Larry Hughes has that same season. Since he came into the league, he played 45 games, 72 games, 80 games, 61 games, 51 games, and currently has played in only 8 games this season. If you're looking for someone to stay healthy, Kevin Martin is certainly not your man.
Offense: Kevin Martin is the best scorer in this bunch, and one of the best and most efficient scorers in the league. Not only is he a stellar jumpshooter, but he also draws a lot of fouls off of those jump shots. You can count on Kevin Martin to consistently score over 20 points, while shooting over 40% from three. However, scoring is all Kevin Martin can do for a team. He is not a great ball handler or passer. However, on a team with LeBron doing all the ball handling, a player who can score as well as Kevin Martin is a nice asset to have.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 38.1 | 25.5 | 2.4 | 1.63 | .408 | .423 | .500 | 77% | .494 | 27.2
'08-'09 | 38.2 | 24.6 | 2.7 | 2.86 | .420 | .415 | .491 | 80% | .480 | 21.3
Defense: Kevin Martin is a bad defender. He's pencil thin and just doesn't play very good defense. There's not a whole lot else to say. In our system, he could probably become an average defender- better than Parker because of his youth and athleticism, but nowhere near the defender Delonte West is.
Summary: Kevin Martin is the best scorer of this group, easily. His shooting and scoring efficiency play perfectly into our team's structure. However, he is incredibly injury prone, and is a very one dimensional player. He isn't a good passer, ballhandler, rebounder, or defender. While his scoring talent alone is enough to make me want him on this team, his injury trouble, along with his one dimensional play, and the fact that the Kings are 1-7 with him in the lineup spells out a player that I am very hesitant about, and certainly not willing to trade top dollar for.
Caron Butler:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 228 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 10,030,970
2010/2011 Salary: 10,811,960
Injuries: Caron Butler has been riddled with injuries. Since coming to Washington, he's played in 75 games, 63 games, 58 games, 67 games, and so far 38 out of the team's 40 games this season. He just seems to have Larry Hughes syndrome, and always comes up with nagging injuries.
Offense: Caron Butler is a pretty well rounded player for his position... which is small forward. Caron is not a shooting guard, and his mediocre three point shooting would not be what we're looking for in our own SG. Caron is a point forward, but we already have one of those. So, if you're a team looking for a SF who can handle the ball, is a good passer, and can score from anywhere, Caron is your guy. However, that's not what the Cavs need.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 39.5 | 16.9 | 2.1 | 2.42 | .427 | .293 | .447 | 73% | .406 | 14.5
'08-'09 | 38.6 | 20.8 | 4.3 | 3.13 | .453 | .310 | .482 | 71% | .418 | 20.9
Defense: Caron Butler is a very capable defender, and I have no doubt he would be an above average defender on this team.
Summary: Caron Butler may be the most well rounded player on this list. He can handle the ball. He can score by penetrating, posting up, shooting mid-range jumpers, or from three point range. He can create for others as well as create his own shot. He's a solid rebounder and a good defender. The problem is, he's not stellar in any one area. The Cavs need a SG who is a reliable three point shooter, not someone who only hits on 30% of his threes. However, while Caron may not be the perfect fit, his talent is undeniable, and if Washington is willing to dump him for salary reasons, I'd gladly pursue him.
Mike Miller: (The nipples are for you PIP)
Height: 6'8"
Weight: 218 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 9,780,937
Injuries: Since 2004, Miller has played in 76, 74, 70, 70, and 73 games. This year he has missed significant time due to both a shoulder injury and a calf injury. So, while he's not as durable as Salmons or Iguodala, he seems a better health bet than Martin or Butler.
Offense: Mike Miller can shoot the basketball. He'll shoot over 40% from three and be very efficient from the field. However, Miller can also be a productive passer and is a decent ball handler as well. He is a phenomenal shooter, who can also pass well, and can handle the ball when needed... sounds like what the Cavs are looking for in a shooting guard, doesn't it?
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 28.0 | 9.3 | 3.3 | 2.17 | .609 | .615 | .708 | 73% | .670 | 15.8
'08-'09 | 32.3 | 9.9 | 3.4 | 2.60 | .482 | .378 | .560 | 68% | .523 | 15.5
Defense: Mike Miller's defense is actually not bad. For some reason he has a bad defensive reputation with casual fans around the league, but his defense is at least average, if not slightly above average. He's certainly not a lock down defender, but he's hardly the revolving door that people think he is. He'd do a better job defending than Anthony Parker, that's for sure.
Summary: Miller has an expiring contract, is one of the best and most efficient shooters in the NBA, is a great team player, a good rebounder, and a good passer. If he's obtainable from Washington, I think he'd fit in perfectly at our SG spot. He can also rotate over to SF at times.
Ronnie Brewer:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 227 lbs.
Age: 24
2009/2010 Salary: 2,717,161
Injuries: Ronnie Brewer is a young, healthy guy. 81 games played last season, and 47 so far this season. Nothing to see here. Move along people.
Offense: Ronnie Brewer's offensive game revolves around him getting to the rim. He's incredibly athletic and long. He's a very effective finisher inside. However, he's more effective as a slasher who catches the ball and finishes; he doesn't really tend to take his man off the dribble. Seventy percent of his inside field goals are assisted. He's an ineffective jumpshooter at this point in his career, and is a below average three point shooter.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 32.2 | 10.0 | 2.8 | 1.02 | .505 | .286 | .511 | 45% | .340 | 15.1
'08-'09 | 32.2 | 13.7 | 2.2 | 1.36 | .508 | .259 | .522 | 48% | .388 | 17.9
Defense: Ronnie Brewer is an above average defender. His athleticism and length allow him to play very good defense on opposing shooting guards. He's also capable of guarding the small forward position. While Jerry Sloan is a terrific defensive coach, I'd imagine that Brewer would even improve a little further if he was incorporated into our defensive system.
Summary: Ronnie Brewer is not some sort of offensive stud. He's a young shooting guard who is very athletic. He provides the ability to finish inside, and he'd probably be right up there with Delonte as our best defensive shooting guard. Due to his poor shooting, I wouldn't target him as a starting caliber shooting guard for this year's team. However, if he was available, I would certainly see if he could be had for cheap, as he is a young, talented guard. Possibly a throw-in along with Andrei Kirilenko?
Jason Richardson:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 13,333,332
2010/2011 Salary: 14,444,443
Injuries: While J-Rich has had a few injuries in his career, he's been a pretty consistent guy. In 2007-2008, he played in all 82 games. Last year he played in 72 games between Phoenix and Charlotte. This year, he's played in 47 games. However, one thing that you have to take into account is character issues. J-Rich did miss a few games early in the season due to suspension. He was charged with a DUI this past offseason.
Offense: J-Rich used to be one of the most explosive athletes in the league. Nowadays, however, he is not. He has gotten older and he has put on weight. Now, two-thirds of his shots are jumpers. This year he's been assisted on 72% of those shots. He doesn't really take his man off the dribble anymore. His three-point shooting is above average. However, J-Rich does have a tendency to start jacking up shots. If you dislike LeBron's heat checks, you will hate Jason Richardson. There are times when he's hot and he'll keep shooting, but there are also times where he's 1-8 from the field and will hoist up jumpers with 18 seconds left on the shot clock.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 30.6 | 14.3 | 1.9 | 1.19 | .449 | .354 | .531 | 68% | .487 | 18.2
'08-'09 | 33.5 | 16.8 | 2.0 | 1.32 | .477 | .397 | .556 | 65% | .493 | 19.1
Defense: Jason Richardson is a below average defender. In Cleveland's system, he'd probably be average. As for a comparison, he'd probably be as effective as Anthony Parker. More ability, but less desire.
Summary: J-Rich is not a player I'd target to bring in as a starting shooting guard. However, he is serviceable in that role. He'd bring more to the table offensively than any shooting guard we currently have, and he'd be an ok defender. The real issues are his character, and his desire. If the Cavs were looking to deal with the Suns, and one of the stipulations was that we HAD to take back J-Rich, it would not be too bad. However, he should not be a primary target.
Corey Maggette:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Age: 30
2009/2010 Salary: 8,937,931
2010/2011 Salary: 9,600,000
2011/2012 Salary: 10,262,069
2012/2013 Salary: 10,924,138
Injuries: Maggette has never played more than 77 games in a season... and that was his rookie year. Since that year, he has missed 13, 19, 18, 9, 16, 50, 7, 12, and 31 games each season. This year, he's played in 45 out of 46 games for the Warriors. Their fingers are crossed.
Offense: Maggette is effective when he's bulldozing his way to the basket. He's one of the better players in the game at penetrating to the basket, and is very good at picking up fouls on the opponent. However, I was surprised to see that 57% of his shots are jumpshots. I expected that to be somewhere around 40%. On his jumpers, he's not great, but he is capable, sporting an eFG% of .428. Maggette is a poor three point shooter, but brings a very good driving game, and a decent midrange game.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 30.8 | 20.7 | 2.6 | 2.51 | .523 | .220 | .550 | 57% | .428 | 24.4
'08-'09 | 31.1 | 18.6 | 1.8 | 2.35 | .461 | .253 | .479 | 65% | .386 | 18.9
Defense: Corey Maggette is a pretty solid defender. He's big and physical. While he doesn't have the highest basketball IQ, he's a capable defender and wouldn't be a huge gap in our defense.
Summary: Maggette is the one wing player here who I could not see playing at SG for us. If he comes here, he plays SF when he's in the game, and we move LeBron around. Maggette just doesn't have the range or quickness to play shooting guard in the NBA at this point. He's a phyiscal SF who slashes to the hoop. Unfortunately, Maggette turns 31 this year and is locked up until 2013. For someone who relies on driving to the basket with athletic ability for his efficient points, I expect a sharp decline in his productivity very soon. Because he does not stretch a defense, and plays the same position as LeBron, I do not see Maggette as a target the Cavs should be looking at. He's just owed too much money and does not really fill a need on this team come playoff time.
Player | Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
John Salmons | '09-'10 | 34.7 | 13.3 | 2.5 | 1.49 | .405 | .385 | .470 | 76% | .450 | 13.9
John Salmons | '08-'09 | 37.4 | 18.3 | 3.2 | 2.1 | .472 | .417 | .543 | 73% | .500 | 17.2
Rip Hamilton | '09-'10 | 35.3 | 18.9 | 4.4 | 2.22 | .388 | .214 | .419 | 85% | .382 | 14.2
Rip Hamilton | '08-'09 | 34.0 | 18.3 | 4.4 | 2.46 | .447 | .368 | .480 | 84% | .448 | 18.7
Andre Iguodala | '09-'10 | 40.0 | 17.8 | 5.9 | 2.75 | .427 | .323 | .476 | 70% | .414 | 20.8
Andre Iguodala | '08-'09 | 39.9 | 18.8 | 5.3 | 2.71 | .473 | .307 | .507 | 64% | .388 | 20.9
Kevin Martin | '09-'10 | 38.1 | 25.5 | 2.4 | 1.63 | .408 | .423 | .500 | 77% | .494 | 27.2
Kevin Martin | '08-'09 | 38.2 | 24.6 | 2.7 | 2.86 | .420 | .415 | .491 | 80% | .480 | 21.3
Caron Butler | '09-'10 | 39.5 | 16.9 | 2.1 | 2.42 | .427 | .293 | .447 | 73% | .406 | 14.5
Caron Butler | '08-'09 | 38.6 | 20.8 | 4.3 | 3.13 | .453 | .310 | .482 | 71% | .418 | 20.9
Mike Miller | '09-'10 | 28.0 | 9.3 | 3.3 | 2.17 | .609 | .615 | .708 | 73% | .670 | 15.8
Mike Miller | '08-'09 | 32.3 | 9.9 | 3.4 | 2.60 | .482 | .378 | .560 | 68% | .523 | 15.5
Ronnie Brewer | '09-'10 | 32.2 | 10.0 | 2.8 | 1.02 | .505 | .286 | .511 | 45% | .340 | 15.1
Ronnie Brewer | '08-'09 | 32.2 | 13.7 | 2.2 | 1.36 | .508 | .259 | .522 | 48% | .388 | 17.9
Jason Richardson | '09-'10 | 30.6 | 14.3 | 1.9 | 1.19 | .449 | .354 | .531 | 68% | .487 | 18.2
Jason Richardson | '08-'09 | 33.5 | 16.8 | 2.0 | 1.32 | .477 | .397 | .556 | 65% | .493 | 19.1
Corey Maggette | '09-'10 | 30.8 | 20.7 | 2.6 | 2.51 | .523 | .220 | .550 | 57% | .428 | 24.4
Corey Maggette | '08-'09 | 31.1 | 18.6 | 1.8 | 2.35 | .461 | .253 | .479 | 65% | .386 | 18.9
Final Analysis: In the Cavaliers' system, we are looking for a shooting guard who can do the following:
1) Shoot the open shots LeBron and Shaq create within our offense
2) Defend opposing SG's, specifically Kobe, Ray Allen, Vince Carter, and Joe Johnson
3) Mesh in with the offense. Be able to handle the ball when needed and make smart decisions on your passes.
4) Be a player with good character, fit in with this team's financial plan, and be able to contribute both this year and in the future
Due to his injuries, age, burdensome contract, poor play this year, and history with the Cavs, Rip Hamilton is one player that I want nothing to do with. He is shooting by far the worst out of every option on this list. 38.8% from the field and 21.4% from three are just unacceptable numbers, even if they are due to injury.
Corey Maggette is a forward who is on the wrong side of 30. He has a long contract, and is the worst shooter on this list. He's a nice piece, especially when LeBron is on the bench, but come playoff time, there's just not a place for him on this team.
Jason Richardson and Ronnie Brewer are not primary targets for the Cavs. If the Cavs deal for Amare and the Suns mandate that we take back J-Rich, then he's serviceable as our starting shooting guard. Ronnie Brewer may be attainable from the Jazz, as there have been rumors that he's available, possibly if we trade for AK47, we could pry Brewer away as well.
Caron Butler is turnover prone, has character issues, and is not a very good shooter. He is also a small forward, and probably has a high price tag. Combine that with the Wizards' reluctance to deal with us, and Caron is an easy scratch from the list.
Kevin Martin probably isn't even available for trade. To attain him from the Kings, it will cost us an arm and a leg. Their GM is notoriously a stingy trader, like Ferry. At this point, the Cavs should not be giving their roster a major shakeup for a one dimensional player with major injury concerns. K-Mart is the next off the list.
So, out of my top three, we have Salmons, Miller, and Iguodala. Iguodala's obviously a stud. He has youth, and talent. He may not be the "ideal" fit for our roster, but he'd instantly provide us with that second option and our starting shooting guard for the foreseeable future. While Iguodala would be the most expensive option on this list, if he's available, you find a way to make it work, even if we have to take back Dalembert or Brand.
John Salmons and Mike Miller are the two most easily obtainable options from this list. If we are to pursue John Salmons, the Bulls will likely not move him just as a salary dump. The trade will most likely have to revolve around West and filler for Salmons. Is losing West worth obtaining John Salmons? It might not be our best option, but it does guarantee us that our best SG won't be incarcerated or suspended come playoff time.
Mike Miller, in my opinion, is the better option. He's a very good teammate, and is the most efficient shooter on this list. A former olympian, Miller has the size we're looking for, and at age 29, we can sign him to be a long term piece for this team. With the Wizards blowing up their team, Miller may come bundled with expensive contracts, such as Antawn Jamison (a very nice bonus), Deshawn Stevenson (cut his ass), or Andre Blatche (meh).
When trying to address the shooting guard solution, my preference would be to examine the Iguodala possibility first. Then, if he's not available, we can attempt to work a deal with Washington based around the contracts of Z and Wally for Jamison and Miller. The only other realistic option that works salary-wise is based around Z, West, and Moon/Parker. Obviously we'd have to include sweetener such as JJ and/or picks, but those details are best left for the negotiation table.
Trade Targets (PF):
Boris Diaw
Anthony Randolph
Troy Murphy
David West
Elton Brand
Andrei Kirilenko
Antawn Jamison
Of this group, Diaw is too undersized and does not play enough defense to be a starting PF for the Cavs. Randolph is just too raw, undersized, and lacking on defense to do so as well. That leaves us with five possible options.
Andrei Kirilenko:
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Age: 28
2009/2010 Salary: 16,452,000
2010/2011 Salary: 17,823,000
Injuries: Since his broken wrist in 2004, AK-47 has played in 69, 70, 72, 67, and currently 35 games. He had a minor knee injury this year, but has since come back and is looking great, just coming off a 26 point performance tonight, shooting 11-15 from the field. While AK-47 seems to always suffer a couple minor injuries here and there, he's a moderately healthy player.
Offense: Right after the retirement of Stockton and the departure of Malone, AK-47 was the main facilitator for the Jazz. However, since then, he has become more of the jack of all trades who doesn't get any plays called for him. He can score inside, as well as outside. However, on the perimeter, his efficiency takes a major hit. He's also a rather poor three point shooter, with a career percentage of 31%. Don't expect him to be able to create any sort of offense for himself either. 76% of his field goals come off assists, including 92% of his jumpers.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % in the Paint | eFG% Paint | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 28.6 | 10.9 | 2.8 | 1.31 | .461 | .339 | .498 | 35% | .637 | 65% | .422 | 18.3
'08-'09 | 27.3 | 11.6 | 2.6 | 1.81 | .449 | .274 | .467 | 46% | .595 | 54% | .357 | 18.8
Defense: AK-47 is one of the most versatile defenders in the league. He is a natural SF, but can defend 2-4. Earlier in his career he was an elite shot blocker. However, that is no longer the case. Honestly, Kirilenko doesn't have the ideal size to defend the larger PF's in the league. However, I think he can handle Garnett, but I think I'd want someone with more muscle to body up Pau Gasol and keep him off the glass. I'd rate Kirilenko as a very good perimeter defender, but only a slightly above average post defender.
Season | BPG | SPG | PF
'09-'10 | 1.0 | 1.1 | 1.57
'08-'09 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.90
Rebounding: Kirilenko is a solid rebounder for someone who plays SF. His numbers would improve if we were to play him at PF, but he still would not be an elite rebounder.
Season | RPG | Off Reb | Def Reb | Off Reb % | Def Reb %
'09-'10 | 4.5 | 1.1 | 3.4 | 4.2% | 12.3%
'08-'09 | 4.8 | 1.3 | 3.5 | 5.0% | 13.8%
Summary: AK-47 is a SF who can play PF. If we were worried about Orlando of last year and getting someone to guard Rashard Lewis, I'd be all about Kirilenko. However, this year we need to focus on stopping Pau Gasol and Kevin Garnett in the playoffs. Unfortunately, I just don't see the size out of AK-47 to be able to effectively lock down both of these forwards. Offensively, he's a garbageman who can hit the three, but not at an efficient rate. I wouldn't mind playing AK-47 as our PF next to Shaq, but he's certainly not an ideal candidate.
Elton Brand:
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 254 lbs.
Age: 30
2009/2010 Salary: 14,858,472
2010/2011 Salary: 15,959,100
2011/2012 Salary: 17,059,728
2012/2013 Salary: 18,160,355 (Player Option)
Injuries: Between 2004 and 2007, Elton Brand played in 252 out of 258 games (including 12 playoff games!) for the Clippers. Then, injury struck with his ruptured Achilles. He played in just 8 games in the 07-08 season. Last year he played in just 29 games. This year, he's missed 4 games for a minor hamstring injury and a stomach virus. Between his age and his injuries, he is certainly not the potential MVP candidate he was when he was with the Clippers.
Offense: Elton Brand has certainly lost quite a bit of his game. If you're looking for a PF who can hit a three, he's not your man. He's 2-14 on his career from three. What Brand can provide is the ability to score inside, along with the ability to hit a mid range jumper.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % in the Paint | eFG% Paint | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 30.0 | 13.7 | 1.1 | 1.70 | .497 | .000 | .495 | 32% | .641 | 68% | .426 | 19.7
'08-'09 | 31.7 | 13.8 | 1.3 | 2.34 | .447 | .000 | .447 | 29% | .523 | 71% | .415 | 16.6
Defense: Elton Brand is a poor defender. This year, the man he guards is shooting about 57% from the field. At 6'9", he wouldn't have the height, or at this stage of his career, the athletic ability to defend against a Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, or Kevin Garnett.
Season | BPG | SPG | PF
'09-'10 | 1.3 | 1.1 | 3.35
'08-'09 | 1.6 | 0.6 | 2.69
Rebounding: Once an elite rebounder, his age and injuries have hobbled him. He is merely an average rebounder, averaging just 6.5 rebounds per game this season.
Season | RPG | Off Reb | Def Reb | Off Reb % | Def Reb %
'09-'10 | 6.5 | 2.6 | 3.8 | 9.8% | 14.1%
'08-'09 | 8.8 | 2.7 | 6.1 | 7.9% | 20.5%
Summary: Elton Brand has had a significant decline in his play since his ruptured Achilles a couple years ago. He is also currently 30 years old. At this point in his career, Brand brings a good mid range jumpshot, a decent post game, average rebounding, and below average defense. While he is an improvement over JJ/Powe, he has an albatross of a contract, and is probably one of the worst contracts in the NBA. The only way I'd touch Brand is if Philly is sending back premium talent along with him.
David West:
*SPECIAL NOTE* -Do not image search for David West with your filter turned off.
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 240 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 9,075,000
2010/2011 Salary: 8,287,500
2011/2012 Salary: 7,525,000 (Player Option)
Injuries: David West played in 74 games in 05-06. During the 06-07 campaign, he missed 30 games due to an elbow injury. Since then, he has logged 76 games each season, and has played in every game so far this season. He's probably the healthiest big on this list.
Offense: David West's game relies on his very good mid range shooting. However, he is also able to play in the post and score inside. He is a phenomenal pick and roll player. The only other player on this list who can give you 20 points a night is Jamison, and West does it much more efficiently than he. West apparently can hit a three, in the same way we say Z can shoot a three. He shoots one three point shot every 3 or 4 games, on average.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % in the Paint | eFG% Paint | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 35.5 | 17.7 | 2.3 | 1.93 | .488 | .357 | .491 | 36% | .628 | 64% | .415 | 20.1
'08-'09 | 39.2 | 21.0 | 2.3 | 2.14 | .472 | .240 | .474 | 29% | .615 | 71% | .416 | 21.1
Defense: West is a solid defender. Now, some of his defensive success may be due to him playing with Chandler, and now Okafor next to him, but he is definitely a solid man defender. I'd rate his defense as slightly above average. While he may not be able to lock down a Garnett or Gasol, he won't be getting absolutely abused by them either. He also has defended Odom VERY well when they've played this year, holding Odom to just 1-6 from the field in the game they both started.
Season | BPG | SPG | PF
'09-'10 | 0.7 | 0.8 | 2.68
'08-'09 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 2.72
Rebounding: While it may appear that David West is a good rebounder because he ranks 31st in the NBA this season, pulling down 7.5 rebounds per game, you have to take pace into account. This is where a stat like rebound percentage comes in handy. David West gathers up 6.9% of his team's potential offensive rebounds, and 15.2% of the potential defensive rebounds. These percentages are worse than Varejao, Z, and Shaq. In fact, even JJ gets 7.1% and 14.7%. So, David West's rebounding ability is very very close to JJ Hickson's rebounding ability.
Season | RPG | Off Reb | Def Reb | Off Reb % | Def Reb %
'09-'10 | 7.5 | 2.3 | 5.2 | 6.9% | 15.2%
'08-'09 | 8.5 | 2.1 | 6.4 | 5.9% | 17.8%
Summary: David West is a pedestrian rebounder, and a slightly above average defender. However, he is one of the better mid-range shooting big men in the league, and one of the most effective players coming off the pick and roll/pop. He also can play with his back to the basket or take his man off the dribble. While he may not have the range of a Jamison or Murphy, he's younger than them, is a more efficient scorer, a better defender, and has a very favorable contract.
Troy Murphy:
Height: 6'11"
Weight: 245 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 11,047,619
2010/2011 Salary: 11,968,255
Injuries: Since the 2004-2005 season, Troy Murphy has played in 70, 74, 68, 75, and 73 games. He missed ten games so far this season due to ankle and back injuries. It appears that Troy seems to miss a handful of games every season, but so far no major time has been lost due to injury.
Offense: Troy Murphy stands still and shoots. He just happens to be pretty damn good at standing still and shooting. 77% of his shots are jumpshots, and 55% of those jumpers are three point shots. He is assisted on 80% of said jumpshots, so don't expect him to create anything for himself. You can count on Troy to hit 3's at around a 40% clip, and hit some open mid range shots, but that's his entire offensive arsenal.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % in the Paint | eFG% Paint | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 31.4 | 14.1 | 2.0 | 1.44 | .480 | .399 | .594 | 23% | .621 | 77% | .586 | 21.0
'08-'09 | 34.0 | 14.3 | 2.4 | 1.56 | .475 | .450 | .580 | 24% | .630 | 76% | .564 | 20.0
Defense: Troy Murphy is a bad defender. When he's on the court, teams average 111 points per 100 possessions against the Pacers. When he's off the court, teams average 105.4 points. Even with his scoring ability, he gives up slightly more points on average to his man than he manages to score. Troy is not athletic or quick, and I expect him to continue to get abused defensively if he came to our system.
Season | BPG | SPG | PF
'09-'10 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 2.44
'08-'09 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 3.10
Rebounding: Troy Murphy is a fantastic defensive rebounder. He's one of the best there is. However, he's not even really much of a better offensive rebounder than Andrei Kirilenko, who's playing on the perimeter. While Troy's rebound numbers are high, I can't fight the feeling that this is a very empty stat inflated by the defensive rebounds he brings down.
Season | RPG | Off Reb | Def Reb | Off Reb % | Def Reb %
'09-'10 | 9.8 | 1.7 | 8.1 | 4.7% | 25.1%
'08-'09 | 11.8 | 2.0 | 9.8 | 5.9% | 29.7%
Summary: Troy Murphy is incredibly one dimensional on offense. He's like a hot buttered Donald who hits his shots. He's incredibly poor defensively, and is not a good offensive rebounder. However, the two things he does do- shoot jump shots and grab defensive rebounds, he does very well. At 6'11", I'm sure the Lakers/Celtics would still just isolate Gasol/Garnett on Murphy all day long. However, with his excellent defensive rebounding, Murphy could make sure that Gasol and Garnett aren't killing us on the offensive glass. Plus, his ability to pull a Garnett or Gasol all the way out to the three point line can not be overlooked.
Antawn Jamison:
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 235 lbs.
Age: 33
2009/2010 Salary: 11,641,095
2010/2011 Salary: 13,358,905
2011/2012 Salary: 15,076,715
Injuries: Jamison has been the lone healthy Wizard for a while now. Starting with the 2005-2006 season, he has played in 82, 70, 79, and 81 games. This year, he's missed 9 games at the beginning of the season due to a shoulder injury. Even at 33 years of age, he keeps his body in good physical condition and has managed to stay healthy.
Offense: Antawn may just be the most complete offensive player on this list. He can score anywhere from the three point line to the post, and is one of the craftiest scorers in the NBA. He does this all at a very efficient clip as well. Jamison's game is based more around his fantastic skill as a basketball player than any sort of athleticism. For those of you concerned about his age, his points per game has actually gone up every year since 2006, and his fg% has increased as well.
Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % in the Paint | eFG% Paint | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
'09-'10 | 39.2 | 22.2 | 1.3 | 1.44 | .477 | .360 | .535 | 32% | .721 | 68% | .448 | 22.3
'08-'09 | 38.2 | 22.2 | 1.9 | 1.54 | .468 | .351 | .507 | 34% | .643 | 66% | .436 | 23.0
Defense: Antawn Jamison is a below average defender. He is also playing on an awful defensive team. However, even with the small improvement I think we'd see with him coming to the Cavs, he's still undersized and old to be contending with Pau Gasol and Kevin Garnett.
Season | BPG | SPG | PF
'09-'10 | 0.2 | 1.1 | 2.84
'08-'09 | 0.3 | 1.2 | 2.69
Rebounding: Jamison is an average rebounder, on par with David West. There's not much more to say here.
Season | RPG | Off Reb | Def Reb | Off Reb % | Def Reb %
'09-'10 | 8.7 | 2.3 | 6.4 | 6.2% | 15.9%
'08-'09 | 8.9 | 2.4 | 6.5 | 6.4% | 18.6%
Summary: I love Jamison's offensive versatility. A proven 20 point scorer would be an immense help to this team. His age bothers me, but we really only need him to perform this year and next, because after that he's an expiring contract. Because his game is based so much on skill and craftiness, I think Jamison can maintain his ability for the next year and a half. The other thing that bothers me is Jamison's defense. I can't see a way where we won't get abused by Garnett or Gasol by having Jamison on the floor. However, I believe his offensive ability outweighs his defensive deficiencies.
Final Analysis:
Player | Season | MPG | PPG | APG | TOPG | FG% | 3PT% | eFG% | % in the Paint | eFG% Paint | % Jumpers | eFG% Jumpers | PER
Andrei Kirilenko | '09-'10 | 28.6 | 10.9 | 2.8 | 1.31 | .461 | .339 | .498 | 35% | .637 | 65% | .422 | 18.3
Andrei Kirilenko | '08-'09 | 27.3 | 11.6 | 2.6 | 1.81 | .449 | .274 | .467 | 46% | .595 | 54% | .357 | 18.8
Elton Brand | '09-'10 | 30.0 | 13.7 | 1.1 | 1.70 | .497 | .000 | .495 | 32% | .641 | 68% | .426 | 19.7
Elton Brand | '08-'09 | 31.7 | 13.8 | 1.3 | 2.34 | .447 | .000 | .447 | 29% | .523 | 71% | .415 | 16.6
David West | '09-'10 | 35.5 | 17.7 | 2.3 | 1.93 | .488 | .357 | .491 | 36% | .628 | 64% | .415 | 20.1
David West | '08-'09 | 39.2 | 21.0 | 2.3 | 2.14 | .472 | .240 | .474 | 29% | .615 | 71% | .416 | 21.1
Troy Murphy | '09-'10 | 31.4 | 14.1 | 2.0 | 1.44 | .480 | .399 | .594 | 23% | .621 | 77% | .586 | 21.0
Troy Murphy | '08-'09 | 34.0 | 14.3 | 2.4 | 1.56 | .475 | .450 | .580 | 24% | .630 | 76% | .564 | 20.0
Antawn Jamison | '09-'10 | 39.2 | 22.2 | 1.3 | 1.44 | .477 | .360 | .535 | 32% | .721 | 68% | .448 | 22.3
Antawn Jamison | '08-'09 | 38.2 | 22.2 | 1.9 | 1.54 | .468 | .351 | .507 | 34% | .643 | 66% | .436 | 23.0
Player | Season | BPG | SPG | PF
Andrei Kirilenko | '09-'10 | 1.0 | 1.1 | 1.57
Andrei Kirilenko | '08-'09 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.90
Elton Brand | '09-'10 | 1.3 | 1.1 | 3.35
Elton Brand | '08-'09 | 1.6 | 0.6 | 2.69
David West | '09-'10 | 0.7 | 0.8 | 2.68
David West | '08-'09 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 2.72
Troy Murphy | '09-'10 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 2.44
Troy Murphy | '08-'09 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 3.10
Antawn Jamison | '09-'10 | 0.2 | 1.1 | 2.84
Antawn Jamison | '08-'09 | 0.3 | 1.2 | 2.69
Player | Season | RPG | Off Reb | Def Reb | Off Reb % | Def Reb %
Andrei Kirilenko | '09-'10 | 4.5 | 1.1 | 3.4 | 4.2% | 12.3%
Andrei Kirilenko | '08-'09 | 4.8 | 1.3 | 3.5 | 5.0% | 13.8%
Elton Brand | '09-'10 | 6.5 | 2.6 | 3.8 | 9.8% | 14.1%
Elton Brand | '08-'09 | 8.8 | 2.7 | 6.1 | 7.9% | 20.5%
David West | '09-'10 | 7.5 | 2.3 | 5.2 | 6.9% | 15.2%
David West | '08-'09 | 8.5 | 2.1 | 6.4 | 5.9% | 17.8%
Troy Murphy | '09-'10 | 9.8 | 1.7 | 8.1 | 4.7% | 25.1%
Troy Murphy | '08-'09 | 11.8 | 2.0 | 9.8 | 5.9% | 29.7%
Antawn Jamison | '09-'10 | 8.7 | 2.3 | 6.4 | 6.2% | 15.9%
Antawn Jamison | '08-'09 | 8.9 | 2.4 | 6.5 | 6.4% | 18.6%
The only player on this list I really don't want is Elton Brand. The combination of his injuries and massive contract, mixed in with his average play makes him one of the most undesirable contracts in the NBA right now.
Andrei Kirilenko is intriguing, but I just don't think that he can match up against a KG or Pau Gasol effectively on the defensive end. Offensively, the other three PF's all do more than AK-47, and Utah would probably want talent back rather than a pure salary dump. For these reasons, AK-47 comes in at fourth on my list.
Third on my list is Troy Murphy. His negative is really his defense. It's bad. The Pacers give up 5.6 more points per 100 possessions with Troy on the floor. This is bad, but it's absolutely awful when you consider that his backup is Tyler Hansborough, and the Pacers offense actually improves by 9.8 points per possession with Murphy out. However, this is one case where logic has to take precedent over statistics. One area where Gasol and Garnett can break us down is offensive rebounding. Bringing in Troy Murphy would, on offense, pull Garnett and Gasol out to the three point line. Defensively, he may be a poor defender, but he could at least keep them off the offensive glass because Troy is one of the best defensive rebounders in the league. I would have no problem trading Z for Murphy (and getting Z back) if the top two options are not available.
Second on my list is RCF's heartthrob, Antawn Jamison. Jamison has an incredibly versatile offensive game that would thrive alongside Shaq and LeBron. The downsides to Jamison are his age, contract, and defense. Plus his rebounding is merely average. However, adding a 20+ point scorer to this team who pulls opposing big men out of the paint would help this team so much more than Jamison's below average would hurt us. With the way the Wizards are going right now, A simple Jamison for Z swap, with Z getting bought out should be agreeable for both sides.
Atop my list of PF's is David West. West has an amazingly favorable contract, and would be a long term solution at PF for this team. His ability to knock down mid range jumpers complements LeBron and Shaq very well, and his pick and roll/pop versatility would be very nice to see. West is a bonafide 20 point per game scorer who is in his prime. He's also a better defender than Jamison or Murphy, and an average rebounder. If the Hornets end up trying to dump salary, West is a player we have to take a look at. Even if they try to dump Peja or Posey on us, Peja expires next year and Posey expires the year after that. However, David West is the most unlikely player on this list to get traded.
Final Breakdown: If you made it this far, reading everything, congratulations. If you skipped, well, I really can't blame you.
In order to solve both our needs at SG and PF, the trade I'd most like to see Ferry pull of would be to help the Wizards in their firesale. We take back Mike Miller and Antawn Jamison by using Z and Wally. Now, the Wizards could add in the bad contracts of DeShawn Stevenson or Andray Blatche, or ask for picks or Hickson. Either way, I think that acquiring these two players really puts us over the top.
If David West is made available, the Cavs HAVE to look into getting him. He'd be a terrific fit, and is a piece we can add to our core. The Hornets probably won't trade him though, seeing as they've been winning as of late and are back in the playoff hunt.
If Mike Miller and Antawn Jamison are unobtainable, I'd try going after John Salmons and Troy Murphy. Salmons would probably cost us West, which is a trade I'm willing to do if it looks like West will be missing significant time due to jail/suspension. Murphy should only cost us Z getting bought out and returning in 30 days.
If we go after someone like West and use up most of our trade chips, or if we can't get one of the SG's I mentioned, then Mike Dunleavy, Thabo Sefolosha, and Ryan Gomes are three wing players that I would look at and should be available.
Well, that's my current stance on the Cavaliers' options at the trade deadline. I'd greatly appreciate any feedback you have and I'll gladly field any questions. Also, if there are options that I didn't consider that you'd like me to add, feel free to let me know. I think I probably put close to 24 hours or so of time into this post (does anyone know what the record is for the longest post on RCF?) and I thank you for taking the time to read this.
Well, it's been a while since I've made one of these, let alone been an active member on this board. I've been lurking every day, but I just haven't had time to post. If long posts and statistical analyses frighten you, you may just want to skip this. However, if you do manage to stick around and read through this, I'd, as always, greatly appreciate your feedback, and I'd be willing to alter my analysis to include quality ideas you bring up.
The state of the team:
PG:
At the point guard spot, we have our long-term starter in Mo. He's meshed with this team better than anyone could have imagined. He truly is one of the best shooters in this league, and his strengths shine playing next to LeBron. Backing up Mo is a question mark. Delonte is probably our most capable backup PG, but he's also our best SG. While Boobie, on the other hand, really started to show up this year, shooting close to 50% from three and playing his best defense to date. However, he hasn't been able to crack Mike Brown's rotation. However, while we may not have our ideal backup point guard on this roster, it's safe to say that having Mo starting (and playing around 38-40 minutes in the playoffs like he did last year) and Delonte/Boobie backing him up, point guard is not a critical issue at this point. I do not expect the Cavs to make a move to bolster the point guard position this season.
SG:
Shooting guard could potentially be our area of greatest need. We have Delonte, who was phenomenal last year, and has been playing better and better this year. However, between his mental issues, and his pending trial, we don't even know if he'll be able to play come the postseason. Anthony Parker has been a solid three point specialist, but he brings almost nothing else to the table. He's an alright SG to have for depth, but he's not an NBA quality starter that you want guarding Wade, Kobe, or Vince Carter. I thought Danny Green was NBA ready coming out of the draft, but apparently Mike Brown has different ideas. As far as this year's playoffs are concerned, Danny Green is a non-factor.
The Cavaliers have to prepare for the worst. What if Delonte is unable to play in the playoffs? This leaves Anthony Parker as our only viable SG. The shooting guard is an area of extreme need on this team, and I expect that obtaining a long-term solution at this spot is one of the areas the Cavs will try to address before the trade deadline.
SF:
This LeBron guy is kinda good at basketball. He's no Air Newble, but I'd keep him around. With Jamario Moon backing him up, and Jawad's inspired play as of late, we could always use a better backup SF to allow LeBron more time at PF, but it is hardly an area of need. That being said, if the right deal comes along to add a talented SF to this team for very little, I think the Cavs have to pull the trigger. We could play the new SF at SG, or we could use him as a super sub off the bench allowing LeBron more time at PF.
Bigs:
I've decided to lump our PF and C situation together, because, on their own, the situation appears a lot more solid than what we have. If I were to tell you that we'd have the leading +/- per game player in the NBA, with J.J. Hickson and Leon Powe for depth, and the potential to play LeBron at PF, you could easily think that we don't need to address this issue. However, our bigs situation needs to be looked at in pairs.
Z/AV make a phenomenal duo. Z's ability to stretch the floor plays incredibly well with LeBron's ability to drive to the hole, and Andy's craftiness around the rim. On defense, Z's still a factor due to his length and rebounding, while Andy keeps getting better and better and is a legitimate all-NBA defensive team candidate. This frontcourt duo also has the best +/- out of our possible frontcourt pairs.
Shaq, however needs a PF next to him who can do what Z does for Andy. Shaq operates in the post, and while his passing has made JJ and Varejao usable PF's next to him, having a PF who can stretch the floor would make Shaq, and the rest of our offense, so much more effective. So, while JJ is developing, and Powe is a very very capable player who was an absolute steal this offseason, neither is really a great fit next to Shaq. This is why I expect the Cavs to go after a PF who can stretch the floor. Along with a shooting guard, a power forward is one of this team's most critical needs to win a championship.
Summary:
The Cavs needs are:
- A shooting guard, because as well as he fits here, we can't guarantee Delonte will be able to play come playoff time, and Anthony Parker is not the answer.
- A power forward who we can pair next to Shaq. Being able to stretch the floor is a necessity, and athleticism and good defense are very nice attributes to have.
Possible other options include:
- A starting quality SF, that we could either play at the SG position, or use as a super sub, playing 30 minutes a game on the wings, and allowing LeBron more time at the PF position
- A true backup point guard because Boobie has not been able to crack Mike Brown's rotation
- A long-term center. Shaq and Z are both getting old, and it would be nice to have a center under the age of 30 that isn't Andy.
Trade Assets:
So, what pieces do the Cavs have to get these needs addressed?
- Shaq's 21 million dollar expiring contract could be used in the right trade. However, 21 million is a large number to work with, and Shaq's ego is a dangerous thing to toy with. I personally don't really see Shaq being moved, unless it's an offer Ferry can't refuse.
- Z's 11.5 million dollar expiring contract is one of the most appealing expirings in the league this year. Not only could the Cavs use this to give someone major cap relief, but the ability for the other team to buy Z out could save them even more money, and result in the Cavs not really losing anything.
- Wally in a sign and trade. Wally could be signed to a deal that is only guaranteed for this year. This would allow us to sign Wally for up to $16,530,000 before he became a BYC contract. Having a 16.5 million dollar expiring is another huge asset this team could potentially use to bring in a solid contributor.
- Delonte West. Delonte is only making 4.2 million this year, and his 4.5 million next year isn't fully guaranteed. While he is a terrific fit here, his mental issues coupled with his legal troubles make him a very unreliable commodity for this year... which could unfortunately have him packing his bags. If a team is requiring talent, not just expirings, expect Delonte to be one of the names seriously considered.
- J.J. Hickson. We see a young PF who really can't do much for us this year. Other teams see a young PF who's already starting and has freakish athletic ability. If trading Hickson brings us back talent, don't expect Ferry to even hesitate, especially when you consider that we have Powe waiting in the wings, who does the same thing JJ does, only better.
- Draft Picks. We have them. They're going to be late picks. Other GM's want them in trades just to save face. A trade sounds a lot better to fans when there's a first round pick involved. I expect Danny to try to hang on to our picks, but if push comes to shove, they are certainly tradeable commodities.
Trade Targets (SG/SF):
So, who's out there that the Cavs could acquire to fill our needs at SG and PF? Here are a list of potential targets to play on the wing for us:
Kirk Hinrich
John Salmons
Rip
Tayshaun
Raja Bell
T-Mac
Mike Dunleavy
Ryan Gomes
Wilson Chandler
Thabo Sefolosha
Andre Iguodala
Kevin Martin
Caron Butler
Mike Miller
In order to dwindle this list down, we can scratch Kirk Hinrich's name off the Cavs' interest list. Hinrich has struggled this year at SG, and is really a PG, which the Cavs aren't looking for. T-Mac has played a whopping 46 minutes this season. Pair his injury troubles with his diminishing play the past few years and his terrible, terrible playoff record, and then throw in his 22 million dollar salary. The only way T-Mac is joining the Cavs is if he's bought out by Houston. Tayshaun has only played in 9 games this season and is now re-injured. He's injured, he's a SF (not a SG) and he's only averaging eight points and 20% from three this season. While he is a nice player, he just doesn't fit in with what the Cavs are trying to do this season.
Raja Bell is just getting up there in age, and he wouldn't be a better solution than Anthony Parker. Wilson Chandler is a SF/PF, which isn't really a position we need, and the Knicks value him too highly for us to work a favorable deal for him.
Now let's break this list down into two categories:
Star SG's:
John Salmons
Rip Hamilton
Andre Iguodala
Kevin Martin
Caron Butler
Mike Miller
The rest of the pack:
Mike Dunleavy
Ryan Gomes
Thabo Sefolosha
John Salmons:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 207 lbs.
Age: 30
2009/2010 Salary: 6,429,151
2010/2011 Salary: 5,808,000 (Player Option)
Injuries: John Salmons is one of the healthiest/toughest players in the NBA over the past few years. Since 2005-2006, he's played in 82 , 79, 81, and 79 games each season. This year he's played in every game so far. He had a strained groin last year and still played it out without missing a game.
Offense: Salmons's numbers are down this season, and a lot of it is due to a lack of spacing in Chicago's offense. His numbers last year included shooting 41.7% from three and 47.2% from the field, while still scoring 18.3 points per game. He is a very efficient scorer, and was Sacramento's primary option for a while last year. He's also a capable passer, averaging 3.7 apg last season when he was in Sacramento. His numbers this year, however, have decreased to .405 from the field and .385 from three while only averaging 13.3 points per game. You can interpret those numbers however you wish, but it is my belief that in a more structured offense that relies on spacing (like ours), Salmons's numbers would quickly return to what they've been the past couple of years.
'09-'10 | 34.7 | 13.3 | 2.5 | 1.49 | .405 | .385 | .470 | 76% | .450 | 13.9
'08-'09 | 37.4 | 18.3 | 3.2 | 2.1 | .472 | .417 | .543 | 73% | .500 | 17.2
Defense: John Salmons is a very capable defender, just ask any Sacramento or Chicago fan. He has the size and athleticism to match up with the Carters, Bryants, and Allens of the world. He's also averaging 1.4 steals per game this season.
Summary: Salmons is a pretty solid character person. He is a solid rebounder at the SG position who can do everything. He's a solid passer, and has the size and athleticism to play solid defense. He's a very efficient scoring option on a very reasonable contract. His downsides are that his shooting has declined this year, and he's 30. I feel that his shooting has declined due to Chicago's poor offense, and him being 30 isn't a big deal considering we don't have to keep him past next season.
Rip Hamilton:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 193 lbs.
Age: 31
2009/2010 Salary: 11,375,000
2010/2011 Salary: 12,500,000
2011/2012 Salary: 12,500,000
2012/2013 Salary: 12,500,000 (Not Fully Guaranteed)
Injuries: Rip has had a few nagging injuries over the years. Since 04-05, he's played in 76, 80, 75, 72 and 67 games. This year he's already missed 27 games with an ankle injury, a hamstring injury, and illness. While Rip isn't the healthiest player in the league, he hasn't really had a big injury, just a bunch of smaller ones.
Offense: Rip's numbers are way down this season. He's shooting .388 from the field and just .214 from three. While this is obviously due to his injuries this season, Rip's numbers were only .447 from the field and .368 from three last season. So, while I think that Rip is still slightly better than his numbers the past two seasons, it's also very likely that his age is starting to catch up to him. To his credit though, Rip is still a very capable passer, averaging 4.4 assists per game.
'09-'10 | 35.3 | 18.9 | 4.4 | 2.22 | .388 | .214 | .419 | 85% | .382 | 14.2
'08-'09 | 34.0 | 18.3 | 4.4 | 2.46 | .447 | .368 | .480 | 84% | .448 | 18.7
Defense: Rip has always been a very good defender. He has the height and athleticism, as well as the hustle. However, it is yet to be seen if his recent injuries, combined with his age, will cost him a step or two.
Summary: If you're looking for someone to penetrate opposing defenses, Rip is not your guy. 85% of his shots are jumpers. While he has been a very good jumpshooter historically, this past season he has looked awful when he's been able to play, and last season his numbers were down as well. I just feel like his age and injuries have caught up to him, and that's not the type of player I want to see the Cavs commit about 50 million to over four years. In his prime, Rip could wear out opposing guards by constantly running all over the court. I'm just not sure he is still that player. Furthermore, his offense has traditionally come curling off screens and such. I'm not so sure how well he'd fit in with our offense, where we want our guards out by the three point line.
Andre Iguodala:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 207 lbs.
Age: 25
2009/2010 Salary: 12,200,000
2010/2011 Salary: 12,345,250
2011/2012 Salary: 13,531,750
2012/2013 Salary: 14,718,250
2013/2014 Salary: 15,904,750 (Player Option)
Injuries: In 2006-2007, Iggy missed 6 games. Those are the only games he has missed so far in his career. He is currently playing on a healing ankle.
Offense: Andre Iguodala's shot mix is almost exactly the same as LeBron's. Over the past two seasons, 64% of LeBron's shots have been jumpers, and Iguodala's mix last season was the exact same. This year, his jumpers are up to 70% of his shot selection. Unfortunately, Iguodala's jumper is even worse than LeBron's. Over the past two seasons, he shot an eFG% of .388 and .414 on jumpers, and .307 and .323 from three. He's also been much more successful at the SF position, which is one of the reasons Philly fans would make him available. Iguodala's strengths come from slashing to the hole, and creating off the dribble. He is an above average passer, but he also turns the ball over.
'09-'10 | 40.0 | 17.8 | 5.9 | 2.75 | .427 | .323 | .476 | 70% | .414 | 20.8
'08-'09 | 39.9 | 18.8 | 5.3 | 2.71 | .473 | .307 | .507 | 64% | .388 | 20.9
Defense: Andre Iguodala has the talent to be a very good defender in this league. Up until this point, his defense has just been average, but in our system, under Mike Brown, I feel that he could easily become an above average defender. He seems to gamble too much on defense for steals, but I believe that his athleticism and defensive skill can be channeled into becoming more of a lockdown defender on the Cavs.
Summary: Iguodala is a great ballhandler, slasher, and small forward. Can he play an effective shooting guard? People in Philadelphia tend to not think so. However, I have a feeling LeBron and Iguodala could make it work on the wings together. While I'd like a shooting guard who can shoot from the perimeter at a very effective clip, Iguodala's upside and talent are just too great to pass up. If he's available, we should certainly try and pick him up. He'd be our starting shooting guard and second option for years to come. Even if he's not the perfect fit, he's a large improvement over what we have at the position.
Kevin Martin:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 185 lbs.
Age: 26
2009/2010 Salary: 9,680,170
2010/2011 Salary: 10,600,005
2011/2012 Salary: 11,519,840
2012/2013 Salary: 12,439,675
Injuries: Kevin Martin is injured... a lot. Only once in his career has he played more than 72 games. In fact, only twice in his career has he played more games than Larry Hughes has that same season. Since he came into the league, he played 45 games, 72 games, 80 games, 61 games, 51 games, and currently has played in only 8 games this season. If you're looking for someone to stay healthy, Kevin Martin is certainly not your man.
Offense: Kevin Martin is the best scorer in this bunch, and one of the best and most efficient scorers in the league. Not only is he a stellar jumpshooter, but he also draws a lot of fouls off of those jump shots. You can count on Kevin Martin to consistently score over 20 points, while shooting over 40% from three. However, scoring is all Kevin Martin can do for a team. He is not a great ball handler or passer. However, on a team with LeBron doing all the ball handling, a player who can score as well as Kevin Martin is a nice asset to have.
'09-'10 | 38.1 | 25.5 | 2.4 | 1.63 | .408 | .423 | .500 | 77% | .494 | 27.2
'08-'09 | 38.2 | 24.6 | 2.7 | 2.86 | .420 | .415 | .491 | 80% | .480 | 21.3
Defense: Kevin Martin is a bad defender. He's pencil thin and just doesn't play very good defense. There's not a whole lot else to say. In our system, he could probably become an average defender- better than Parker because of his youth and athleticism, but nowhere near the defender Delonte West is.
Summary: Kevin Martin is the best scorer of this group, easily. His shooting and scoring efficiency play perfectly into our team's structure. However, he is incredibly injury prone, and is a very one dimensional player. He isn't a good passer, ballhandler, rebounder, or defender. While his scoring talent alone is enough to make me want him on this team, his injury trouble, along with his one dimensional play, and the fact that the Kings are 1-7 with him in the lineup spells out a player that I am very hesitant about, and certainly not willing to trade top dollar for.
Caron Butler:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 228 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 10,030,970
2010/2011 Salary: 10,811,960
Injuries: Caron Butler has been riddled with injuries. Since coming to Washington, he's played in 75 games, 63 games, 58 games, 67 games, and so far 38 out of the team's 40 games this season. He just seems to have Larry Hughes syndrome, and always comes up with nagging injuries.
Offense: Caron Butler is a pretty well rounded player for his position... which is small forward. Caron is not a shooting guard, and his mediocre three point shooting would not be what we're looking for in our own SG. Caron is a point forward, but we already have one of those. So, if you're a team looking for a SF who can handle the ball, is a good passer, and can score from anywhere, Caron is your guy. However, that's not what the Cavs need.
'09-'10 | 39.5 | 16.9 | 2.1 | 2.42 | .427 | .293 | .447 | 73% | .406 | 14.5
'08-'09 | 38.6 | 20.8 | 4.3 | 3.13 | .453 | .310 | .482 | 71% | .418 | 20.9
Defense: Caron Butler is a very capable defender, and I have no doubt he would be an above average defender on this team.
Summary: Caron Butler may be the most well rounded player on this list. He can handle the ball. He can score by penetrating, posting up, shooting mid-range jumpers, or from three point range. He can create for others as well as create his own shot. He's a solid rebounder and a good defender. The problem is, he's not stellar in any one area. The Cavs need a SG who is a reliable three point shooter, not someone who only hits on 30% of his threes. However, while Caron may not be the perfect fit, his talent is undeniable, and if Washington is willing to dump him for salary reasons, I'd gladly pursue him.
Mike Miller: (The nipples are for you PIP)
Height: 6'8"
Weight: 218 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 9,780,937
Injuries: Since 2004, Miller has played in 76, 74, 70, 70, and 73 games. This year he has missed significant time due to both a shoulder injury and a calf injury. So, while he's not as durable as Salmons or Iguodala, he seems a better health bet than Martin or Butler.
Offense: Mike Miller can shoot the basketball. He'll shoot over 40% from three and be very efficient from the field. However, Miller can also be a productive passer and is a decent ball handler as well. He is a phenomenal shooter, who can also pass well, and can handle the ball when needed... sounds like what the Cavs are looking for in a shooting guard, doesn't it?
'09-'10 | 28.0 | 9.3 | 3.3 | 2.17 | .609 | .615 | .708 | 73% | .670 | 15.8
'08-'09 | 32.3 | 9.9 | 3.4 | 2.60 | .482 | .378 | .560 | 68% | .523 | 15.5
Defense: Mike Miller's defense is actually not bad. For some reason he has a bad defensive reputation with casual fans around the league, but his defense is at least average, if not slightly above average. He's certainly not a lock down defender, but he's hardly the revolving door that people think he is. He'd do a better job defending than Anthony Parker, that's for sure.
Summary: Miller has an expiring contract, is one of the best and most efficient shooters in the NBA, is a great team player, a good rebounder, and a good passer. If he's obtainable from Washington, I think he'd fit in perfectly at our SG spot. He can also rotate over to SF at times.
Ronnie Brewer:
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 227 lbs.
Age: 24
2009/2010 Salary: 2,717,161
Injuries: Ronnie Brewer is a young, healthy guy. 81 games played last season, and 47 so far this season. Nothing to see here. Move along people.
Offense: Ronnie Brewer's offensive game revolves around him getting to the rim. He's incredibly athletic and long. He's a very effective finisher inside. However, he's more effective as a slasher who catches the ball and finishes; he doesn't really tend to take his man off the dribble. Seventy percent of his inside field goals are assisted. He's an ineffective jumpshooter at this point in his career, and is a below average three point shooter.
'09-'10 | 32.2 | 10.0 | 2.8 | 1.02 | .505 | .286 | .511 | 45% | .340 | 15.1
'08-'09 | 32.2 | 13.7 | 2.2 | 1.36 | .508 | .259 | .522 | 48% | .388 | 17.9
Defense: Ronnie Brewer is an above average defender. His athleticism and length allow him to play very good defense on opposing shooting guards. He's also capable of guarding the small forward position. While Jerry Sloan is a terrific defensive coach, I'd imagine that Brewer would even improve a little further if he was incorporated into our defensive system.
Summary: Ronnie Brewer is not some sort of offensive stud. He's a young shooting guard who is very athletic. He provides the ability to finish inside, and he'd probably be right up there with Delonte as our best defensive shooting guard. Due to his poor shooting, I wouldn't target him as a starting caliber shooting guard for this year's team. However, if he was available, I would certainly see if he could be had for cheap, as he is a young, talented guard. Possibly a throw-in along with Andrei Kirilenko?
Jason Richardson:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 13,333,332
2010/2011 Salary: 14,444,443
Injuries: While J-Rich has had a few injuries in his career, he's been a pretty consistent guy. In 2007-2008, he played in all 82 games. Last year he played in 72 games between Phoenix and Charlotte. This year, he's played in 47 games. However, one thing that you have to take into account is character issues. J-Rich did miss a few games early in the season due to suspension. He was charged with a DUI this past offseason.
Offense: J-Rich used to be one of the most explosive athletes in the league. Nowadays, however, he is not. He has gotten older and he has put on weight. Now, two-thirds of his shots are jumpers. This year he's been assisted on 72% of those shots. He doesn't really take his man off the dribble anymore. His three-point shooting is above average. However, J-Rich does have a tendency to start jacking up shots. If you dislike LeBron's heat checks, you will hate Jason Richardson. There are times when he's hot and he'll keep shooting, but there are also times where he's 1-8 from the field and will hoist up jumpers with 18 seconds left on the shot clock.
'09-'10 | 30.6 | 14.3 | 1.9 | 1.19 | .449 | .354 | .531 | 68% | .487 | 18.2
'08-'09 | 33.5 | 16.8 | 2.0 | 1.32 | .477 | .397 | .556 | 65% | .493 | 19.1
Defense: Jason Richardson is a below average defender. In Cleveland's system, he'd probably be average. As for a comparison, he'd probably be as effective as Anthony Parker. More ability, but less desire.
Summary: J-Rich is not a player I'd target to bring in as a starting shooting guard. However, he is serviceable in that role. He'd bring more to the table offensively than any shooting guard we currently have, and he'd be an ok defender. The real issues are his character, and his desire. If the Cavs were looking to deal with the Suns, and one of the stipulations was that we HAD to take back J-Rich, it would not be too bad. However, he should not be a primary target.
Corey Maggette:
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Age: 30
2009/2010 Salary: 8,937,931
2010/2011 Salary: 9,600,000
2011/2012 Salary: 10,262,069
2012/2013 Salary: 10,924,138
Injuries: Maggette has never played more than 77 games in a season... and that was his rookie year. Since that year, he has missed 13, 19, 18, 9, 16, 50, 7, 12, and 31 games each season. This year, he's played in 45 out of 46 games for the Warriors. Their fingers are crossed.
Offense: Maggette is effective when he's bulldozing his way to the basket. He's one of the better players in the game at penetrating to the basket, and is very good at picking up fouls on the opponent. However, I was surprised to see that 57% of his shots are jumpshots. I expected that to be somewhere around 40%. On his jumpers, he's not great, but he is capable, sporting an eFG% of .428. Maggette is a poor three point shooter, but brings a very good driving game, and a decent midrange game.
'09-'10 | 30.8 | 20.7 | 2.6 | 2.51 | .523 | .220 | .550 | 57% | .428 | 24.4
'08-'09 | 31.1 | 18.6 | 1.8 | 2.35 | .461 | .253 | .479 | 65% | .386 | 18.9
Defense: Corey Maggette is a pretty solid defender. He's big and physical. While he doesn't have the highest basketball IQ, he's a capable defender and wouldn't be a huge gap in our defense.
Summary: Maggette is the one wing player here who I could not see playing at SG for us. If he comes here, he plays SF when he's in the game, and we move LeBron around. Maggette just doesn't have the range or quickness to play shooting guard in the NBA at this point. He's a phyiscal SF who slashes to the hoop. Unfortunately, Maggette turns 31 this year and is locked up until 2013. For someone who relies on driving to the basket with athletic ability for his efficient points, I expect a sharp decline in his productivity very soon. Because he does not stretch a defense, and plays the same position as LeBron, I do not see Maggette as a target the Cavs should be looking at. He's just owed too much money and does not really fill a need on this team come playoff time.
John Salmons | '09-'10 | 34.7 | 13.3 | 2.5 | 1.49 | .405 | .385 | .470 | 76% | .450 | 13.9
John Salmons | '08-'09 | 37.4 | 18.3 | 3.2 | 2.1 | .472 | .417 | .543 | 73% | .500 | 17.2
Rip Hamilton | '09-'10 | 35.3 | 18.9 | 4.4 | 2.22 | .388 | .214 | .419 | 85% | .382 | 14.2
Rip Hamilton | '08-'09 | 34.0 | 18.3 | 4.4 | 2.46 | .447 | .368 | .480 | 84% | .448 | 18.7
Andre Iguodala | '09-'10 | 40.0 | 17.8 | 5.9 | 2.75 | .427 | .323 | .476 | 70% | .414 | 20.8
Andre Iguodala | '08-'09 | 39.9 | 18.8 | 5.3 | 2.71 | .473 | .307 | .507 | 64% | .388 | 20.9
Kevin Martin | '09-'10 | 38.1 | 25.5 | 2.4 | 1.63 | .408 | .423 | .500 | 77% | .494 | 27.2
Kevin Martin | '08-'09 | 38.2 | 24.6 | 2.7 | 2.86 | .420 | .415 | .491 | 80% | .480 | 21.3
Caron Butler | '09-'10 | 39.5 | 16.9 | 2.1 | 2.42 | .427 | .293 | .447 | 73% | .406 | 14.5
Caron Butler | '08-'09 | 38.6 | 20.8 | 4.3 | 3.13 | .453 | .310 | .482 | 71% | .418 | 20.9
Mike Miller | '09-'10 | 28.0 | 9.3 | 3.3 | 2.17 | .609 | .615 | .708 | 73% | .670 | 15.8
Mike Miller | '08-'09 | 32.3 | 9.9 | 3.4 | 2.60 | .482 | .378 | .560 | 68% | .523 | 15.5
Ronnie Brewer | '09-'10 | 32.2 | 10.0 | 2.8 | 1.02 | .505 | .286 | .511 | 45% | .340 | 15.1
Ronnie Brewer | '08-'09 | 32.2 | 13.7 | 2.2 | 1.36 | .508 | .259 | .522 | 48% | .388 | 17.9
Jason Richardson | '09-'10 | 30.6 | 14.3 | 1.9 | 1.19 | .449 | .354 | .531 | 68% | .487 | 18.2
Jason Richardson | '08-'09 | 33.5 | 16.8 | 2.0 | 1.32 | .477 | .397 | .556 | 65% | .493 | 19.1
Corey Maggette | '09-'10 | 30.8 | 20.7 | 2.6 | 2.51 | .523 | .220 | .550 | 57% | .428 | 24.4
Corey Maggette | '08-'09 | 31.1 | 18.6 | 1.8 | 2.35 | .461 | .253 | .479 | 65% | .386 | 18.9
Final Analysis: In the Cavaliers' system, we are looking for a shooting guard who can do the following:
1) Shoot the open shots LeBron and Shaq create within our offense
2) Defend opposing SG's, specifically Kobe, Ray Allen, Vince Carter, and Joe Johnson
3) Mesh in with the offense. Be able to handle the ball when needed and make smart decisions on your passes.
4) Be a player with good character, fit in with this team's financial plan, and be able to contribute both this year and in the future
Due to his injuries, age, burdensome contract, poor play this year, and history with the Cavs, Rip Hamilton is one player that I want nothing to do with. He is shooting by far the worst out of every option on this list. 38.8% from the field and 21.4% from three are just unacceptable numbers, even if they are due to injury.
Corey Maggette is a forward who is on the wrong side of 30. He has a long contract, and is the worst shooter on this list. He's a nice piece, especially when LeBron is on the bench, but come playoff time, there's just not a place for him on this team.
Jason Richardson and Ronnie Brewer are not primary targets for the Cavs. If the Cavs deal for Amare and the Suns mandate that we take back J-Rich, then he's serviceable as our starting shooting guard. Ronnie Brewer may be attainable from the Jazz, as there have been rumors that he's available, possibly if we trade for AK47, we could pry Brewer away as well.
Caron Butler is turnover prone, has character issues, and is not a very good shooter. He is also a small forward, and probably has a high price tag. Combine that with the Wizards' reluctance to deal with us, and Caron is an easy scratch from the list.
Kevin Martin probably isn't even available for trade. To attain him from the Kings, it will cost us an arm and a leg. Their GM is notoriously a stingy trader, like Ferry. At this point, the Cavs should not be giving their roster a major shakeup for a one dimensional player with major injury concerns. K-Mart is the next off the list.
So, out of my top three, we have Salmons, Miller, and Iguodala. Iguodala's obviously a stud. He has youth, and talent. He may not be the "ideal" fit for our roster, but he'd instantly provide us with that second option and our starting shooting guard for the foreseeable future. While Iguodala would be the most expensive option on this list, if he's available, you find a way to make it work, even if we have to take back Dalembert or Brand.
John Salmons and Mike Miller are the two most easily obtainable options from this list. If we are to pursue John Salmons, the Bulls will likely not move him just as a salary dump. The trade will most likely have to revolve around West and filler for Salmons. Is losing West worth obtaining John Salmons? It might not be our best option, but it does guarantee us that our best SG won't be incarcerated or suspended come playoff time.
Mike Miller, in my opinion, is the better option. He's a very good teammate, and is the most efficient shooter on this list. A former olympian, Miller has the size we're looking for, and at age 29, we can sign him to be a long term piece for this team. With the Wizards blowing up their team, Miller may come bundled with expensive contracts, such as Antawn Jamison (a very nice bonus), Deshawn Stevenson (cut his ass), or Andre Blatche (meh).
When trying to address the shooting guard solution, my preference would be to examine the Iguodala possibility first. Then, if he's not available, we can attempt to work a deal with Washington based around the contracts of Z and Wally for Jamison and Miller. The only other realistic option that works salary-wise is based around Z, West, and Moon/Parker. Obviously we'd have to include sweetener such as JJ and/or picks, but those details are best left for the negotiation table.
Trade Targets (PF):
Boris Diaw
Anthony Randolph
Troy Murphy
David West
Elton Brand
Andrei Kirilenko
Antawn Jamison
Of this group, Diaw is too undersized and does not play enough defense to be a starting PF for the Cavs. Randolph is just too raw, undersized, and lacking on defense to do so as well. That leaves us with five possible options.
Andrei Kirilenko:
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Age: 28
2009/2010 Salary: 16,452,000
2010/2011 Salary: 17,823,000
Injuries: Since his broken wrist in 2004, AK-47 has played in 69, 70, 72, 67, and currently 35 games. He had a minor knee injury this year, but has since come back and is looking great, just coming off a 26 point performance tonight, shooting 11-15 from the field. While AK-47 seems to always suffer a couple minor injuries here and there, he's a moderately healthy player.
Offense: Right after the retirement of Stockton and the departure of Malone, AK-47 was the main facilitator for the Jazz. However, since then, he has become more of the jack of all trades who doesn't get any plays called for him. He can score inside, as well as outside. However, on the perimeter, his efficiency takes a major hit. He's also a rather poor three point shooter, with a career percentage of 31%. Don't expect him to be able to create any sort of offense for himself either. 76% of his field goals come off assists, including 92% of his jumpers.
'09-'10 | 28.6 | 10.9 | 2.8 | 1.31 | .461 | .339 | .498 | 35% | .637 | 65% | .422 | 18.3
'08-'09 | 27.3 | 11.6 | 2.6 | 1.81 | .449 | .274 | .467 | 46% | .595 | 54% | .357 | 18.8
Defense: AK-47 is one of the most versatile defenders in the league. He is a natural SF, but can defend 2-4. Earlier in his career he was an elite shot blocker. However, that is no longer the case. Honestly, Kirilenko doesn't have the ideal size to defend the larger PF's in the league. However, I think he can handle Garnett, but I think I'd want someone with more muscle to body up Pau Gasol and keep him off the glass. I'd rate Kirilenko as a very good perimeter defender, but only a slightly above average post defender.
'09-'10 | 1.0 | 1.1 | 1.57
'08-'09 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.90
Rebounding: Kirilenko is a solid rebounder for someone who plays SF. His numbers would improve if we were to play him at PF, but he still would not be an elite rebounder.
'09-'10 | 4.5 | 1.1 | 3.4 | 4.2% | 12.3%
'08-'09 | 4.8 | 1.3 | 3.5 | 5.0% | 13.8%
Summary: AK-47 is a SF who can play PF. If we were worried about Orlando of last year and getting someone to guard Rashard Lewis, I'd be all about Kirilenko. However, this year we need to focus on stopping Pau Gasol and Kevin Garnett in the playoffs. Unfortunately, I just don't see the size out of AK-47 to be able to effectively lock down both of these forwards. Offensively, he's a garbageman who can hit the three, but not at an efficient rate. I wouldn't mind playing AK-47 as our PF next to Shaq, but he's certainly not an ideal candidate.
Elton Brand:
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 254 lbs.
Age: 30
2009/2010 Salary: 14,858,472
2010/2011 Salary: 15,959,100
2011/2012 Salary: 17,059,728
2012/2013 Salary: 18,160,355 (Player Option)
Injuries: Between 2004 and 2007, Elton Brand played in 252 out of 258 games (including 12 playoff games!) for the Clippers. Then, injury struck with his ruptured Achilles. He played in just 8 games in the 07-08 season. Last year he played in just 29 games. This year, he's missed 4 games for a minor hamstring injury and a stomach virus. Between his age and his injuries, he is certainly not the potential MVP candidate he was when he was with the Clippers.
Offense: Elton Brand has certainly lost quite a bit of his game. If you're looking for a PF who can hit a three, he's not your man. He's 2-14 on his career from three. What Brand can provide is the ability to score inside, along with the ability to hit a mid range jumper.
'09-'10 | 30.0 | 13.7 | 1.1 | 1.70 | .497 | .000 | .495 | 32% | .641 | 68% | .426 | 19.7
'08-'09 | 31.7 | 13.8 | 1.3 | 2.34 | .447 | .000 | .447 | 29% | .523 | 71% | .415 | 16.6
Defense: Elton Brand is a poor defender. This year, the man he guards is shooting about 57% from the field. At 6'9", he wouldn't have the height, or at this stage of his career, the athletic ability to defend against a Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, or Kevin Garnett.
'09-'10 | 1.3 | 1.1 | 3.35
'08-'09 | 1.6 | 0.6 | 2.69
Rebounding: Once an elite rebounder, his age and injuries have hobbled him. He is merely an average rebounder, averaging just 6.5 rebounds per game this season.
'09-'10 | 6.5 | 2.6 | 3.8 | 9.8% | 14.1%
'08-'09 | 8.8 | 2.7 | 6.1 | 7.9% | 20.5%
Summary: Elton Brand has had a significant decline in his play since his ruptured Achilles a couple years ago. He is also currently 30 years old. At this point in his career, Brand brings a good mid range jumpshot, a decent post game, average rebounding, and below average defense. While he is an improvement over JJ/Powe, he has an albatross of a contract, and is probably one of the worst contracts in the NBA. The only way I'd touch Brand is if Philly is sending back premium talent along with him.
David West:
*SPECIAL NOTE* -Do not image search for David West with your filter turned off.
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 240 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 9,075,000
2010/2011 Salary: 8,287,500
2011/2012 Salary: 7,525,000 (Player Option)
Injuries: David West played in 74 games in 05-06. During the 06-07 campaign, he missed 30 games due to an elbow injury. Since then, he has logged 76 games each season, and has played in every game so far this season. He's probably the healthiest big on this list.
Offense: David West's game relies on his very good mid range shooting. However, he is also able to play in the post and score inside. He is a phenomenal pick and roll player. The only other player on this list who can give you 20 points a night is Jamison, and West does it much more efficiently than he. West apparently can hit a three, in the same way we say Z can shoot a three. He shoots one three point shot every 3 or 4 games, on average.
'09-'10 | 35.5 | 17.7 | 2.3 | 1.93 | .488 | .357 | .491 | 36% | .628 | 64% | .415 | 20.1
'08-'09 | 39.2 | 21.0 | 2.3 | 2.14 | .472 | .240 | .474 | 29% | .615 | 71% | .416 | 21.1
Defense: West is a solid defender. Now, some of his defensive success may be due to him playing with Chandler, and now Okafor next to him, but he is definitely a solid man defender. I'd rate his defense as slightly above average. While he may not be able to lock down a Garnett or Gasol, he won't be getting absolutely abused by them either. He also has defended Odom VERY well when they've played this year, holding Odom to just 1-6 from the field in the game they both started.
'09-'10 | 0.7 | 0.8 | 2.68
'08-'09 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 2.72
Rebounding: While it may appear that David West is a good rebounder because he ranks 31st in the NBA this season, pulling down 7.5 rebounds per game, you have to take pace into account. This is where a stat like rebound percentage comes in handy. David West gathers up 6.9% of his team's potential offensive rebounds, and 15.2% of the potential defensive rebounds. These percentages are worse than Varejao, Z, and Shaq. In fact, even JJ gets 7.1% and 14.7%. So, David West's rebounding ability is very very close to JJ Hickson's rebounding ability.
'09-'10 | 7.5 | 2.3 | 5.2 | 6.9% | 15.2%
'08-'09 | 8.5 | 2.1 | 6.4 | 5.9% | 17.8%
Summary: David West is a pedestrian rebounder, and a slightly above average defender. However, he is one of the better mid-range shooting big men in the league, and one of the most effective players coming off the pick and roll/pop. He also can play with his back to the basket or take his man off the dribble. While he may not have the range of a Jamison or Murphy, he's younger than them, is a more efficient scorer, a better defender, and has a very favorable contract.
Troy Murphy:
Height: 6'11"
Weight: 245 lbs.
Age: 29
2009/2010 Salary: 11,047,619
2010/2011 Salary: 11,968,255
Injuries: Since the 2004-2005 season, Troy Murphy has played in 70, 74, 68, 75, and 73 games. He missed ten games so far this season due to ankle and back injuries. It appears that Troy seems to miss a handful of games every season, but so far no major time has been lost due to injury.
Offense: Troy Murphy stands still and shoots. He just happens to be pretty damn good at standing still and shooting. 77% of his shots are jumpshots, and 55% of those jumpers are three point shots. He is assisted on 80% of said jumpshots, so don't expect him to create anything for himself. You can count on Troy to hit 3's at around a 40% clip, and hit some open mid range shots, but that's his entire offensive arsenal.
'09-'10 | 31.4 | 14.1 | 2.0 | 1.44 | .480 | .399 | .594 | 23% | .621 | 77% | .586 | 21.0
'08-'09 | 34.0 | 14.3 | 2.4 | 1.56 | .475 | .450 | .580 | 24% | .630 | 76% | .564 | 20.0
Defense: Troy Murphy is a bad defender. When he's on the court, teams average 111 points per 100 possessions against the Pacers. When he's off the court, teams average 105.4 points. Even with his scoring ability, he gives up slightly more points on average to his man than he manages to score. Troy is not athletic or quick, and I expect him to continue to get abused defensively if he came to our system.
'09-'10 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 2.44
'08-'09 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 3.10
Rebounding: Troy Murphy is a fantastic defensive rebounder. He's one of the best there is. However, he's not even really much of a better offensive rebounder than Andrei Kirilenko, who's playing on the perimeter. While Troy's rebound numbers are high, I can't fight the feeling that this is a very empty stat inflated by the defensive rebounds he brings down.
'09-'10 | 9.8 | 1.7 | 8.1 | 4.7% | 25.1%
'08-'09 | 11.8 | 2.0 | 9.8 | 5.9% | 29.7%
Summary: Troy Murphy is incredibly one dimensional on offense. He's like a hot buttered Donald who hits his shots. He's incredibly poor defensively, and is not a good offensive rebounder. However, the two things he does do- shoot jump shots and grab defensive rebounds, he does very well. At 6'11", I'm sure the Lakers/Celtics would still just isolate Gasol/Garnett on Murphy all day long. However, with his excellent defensive rebounding, Murphy could make sure that Gasol and Garnett aren't killing us on the offensive glass. Plus, his ability to pull a Garnett or Gasol all the way out to the three point line can not be overlooked.
Antawn Jamison:
Height: 6'9"
Weight: 235 lbs.
Age: 33
2009/2010 Salary: 11,641,095
2010/2011 Salary: 13,358,905
2011/2012 Salary: 15,076,715
Injuries: Jamison has been the lone healthy Wizard for a while now. Starting with the 2005-2006 season, he has played in 82, 70, 79, and 81 games. This year, he's missed 9 games at the beginning of the season due to a shoulder injury. Even at 33 years of age, he keeps his body in good physical condition and has managed to stay healthy.
Offense: Antawn may just be the most complete offensive player on this list. He can score anywhere from the three point line to the post, and is one of the craftiest scorers in the NBA. He does this all at a very efficient clip as well. Jamison's game is based more around his fantastic skill as a basketball player than any sort of athleticism. For those of you concerned about his age, his points per game has actually gone up every year since 2006, and his fg% has increased as well.
'09-'10 | 39.2 | 22.2 | 1.3 | 1.44 | .477 | .360 | .535 | 32% | .721 | 68% | .448 | 22.3
'08-'09 | 38.2 | 22.2 | 1.9 | 1.54 | .468 | .351 | .507 | 34% | .643 | 66% | .436 | 23.0
Defense: Antawn Jamison is a below average defender. He is also playing on an awful defensive team. However, even with the small improvement I think we'd see with him coming to the Cavs, he's still undersized and old to be contending with Pau Gasol and Kevin Garnett.
'09-'10 | 0.2 | 1.1 | 2.84
'08-'09 | 0.3 | 1.2 | 2.69
Rebounding: Jamison is an average rebounder, on par with David West. There's not much more to say here.
'09-'10 | 8.7 | 2.3 | 6.4 | 6.2% | 15.9%
'08-'09 | 8.9 | 2.4 | 6.5 | 6.4% | 18.6%
Summary: I love Jamison's offensive versatility. A proven 20 point scorer would be an immense help to this team. His age bothers me, but we really only need him to perform this year and next, because after that he's an expiring contract. Because his game is based so much on skill and craftiness, I think Jamison can maintain his ability for the next year and a half. The other thing that bothers me is Jamison's defense. I can't see a way where we won't get abused by Garnett or Gasol by having Jamison on the floor. However, I believe his offensive ability outweighs his defensive deficiencies.
Final Analysis:
Andrei Kirilenko | '09-'10 | 28.6 | 10.9 | 2.8 | 1.31 | .461 | .339 | .498 | 35% | .637 | 65% | .422 | 18.3
Andrei Kirilenko | '08-'09 | 27.3 | 11.6 | 2.6 | 1.81 | .449 | .274 | .467 | 46% | .595 | 54% | .357 | 18.8
Elton Brand | '09-'10 | 30.0 | 13.7 | 1.1 | 1.70 | .497 | .000 | .495 | 32% | .641 | 68% | .426 | 19.7
Elton Brand | '08-'09 | 31.7 | 13.8 | 1.3 | 2.34 | .447 | .000 | .447 | 29% | .523 | 71% | .415 | 16.6
David West | '09-'10 | 35.5 | 17.7 | 2.3 | 1.93 | .488 | .357 | .491 | 36% | .628 | 64% | .415 | 20.1
David West | '08-'09 | 39.2 | 21.0 | 2.3 | 2.14 | .472 | .240 | .474 | 29% | .615 | 71% | .416 | 21.1
Troy Murphy | '09-'10 | 31.4 | 14.1 | 2.0 | 1.44 | .480 | .399 | .594 | 23% | .621 | 77% | .586 | 21.0
Troy Murphy | '08-'09 | 34.0 | 14.3 | 2.4 | 1.56 | .475 | .450 | .580 | 24% | .630 | 76% | .564 | 20.0
Antawn Jamison | '09-'10 | 39.2 | 22.2 | 1.3 | 1.44 | .477 | .360 | .535 | 32% | .721 | 68% | .448 | 22.3
Antawn Jamison | '08-'09 | 38.2 | 22.2 | 1.9 | 1.54 | .468 | .351 | .507 | 34% | .643 | 66% | .436 | 23.0
Andrei Kirilenko | '09-'10 | 1.0 | 1.1 | 1.57
Andrei Kirilenko | '08-'09 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.90
Elton Brand | '09-'10 | 1.3 | 1.1 | 3.35
Elton Brand | '08-'09 | 1.6 | 0.6 | 2.69
David West | '09-'10 | 0.7 | 0.8 | 2.68
David West | '08-'09 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 2.72
Troy Murphy | '09-'10 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 2.44
Troy Murphy | '08-'09 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 3.10
Antawn Jamison | '09-'10 | 0.2 | 1.1 | 2.84
Antawn Jamison | '08-'09 | 0.3 | 1.2 | 2.69
Andrei Kirilenko | '09-'10 | 4.5 | 1.1 | 3.4 | 4.2% | 12.3%
Andrei Kirilenko | '08-'09 | 4.8 | 1.3 | 3.5 | 5.0% | 13.8%
Elton Brand | '09-'10 | 6.5 | 2.6 | 3.8 | 9.8% | 14.1%
Elton Brand | '08-'09 | 8.8 | 2.7 | 6.1 | 7.9% | 20.5%
David West | '09-'10 | 7.5 | 2.3 | 5.2 | 6.9% | 15.2%
David West | '08-'09 | 8.5 | 2.1 | 6.4 | 5.9% | 17.8%
Troy Murphy | '09-'10 | 9.8 | 1.7 | 8.1 | 4.7% | 25.1%
Troy Murphy | '08-'09 | 11.8 | 2.0 | 9.8 | 5.9% | 29.7%
Antawn Jamison | '09-'10 | 8.7 | 2.3 | 6.4 | 6.2% | 15.9%
Antawn Jamison | '08-'09 | 8.9 | 2.4 | 6.5 | 6.4% | 18.6%
The only player on this list I really don't want is Elton Brand. The combination of his injuries and massive contract, mixed in with his average play makes him one of the most undesirable contracts in the NBA right now.
Andrei Kirilenko is intriguing, but I just don't think that he can match up against a KG or Pau Gasol effectively on the defensive end. Offensively, the other three PF's all do more than AK-47, and Utah would probably want talent back rather than a pure salary dump. For these reasons, AK-47 comes in at fourth on my list.
Third on my list is Troy Murphy. His negative is really his defense. It's bad. The Pacers give up 5.6 more points per 100 possessions with Troy on the floor. This is bad, but it's absolutely awful when you consider that his backup is Tyler Hansborough, and the Pacers offense actually improves by 9.8 points per possession with Murphy out. However, this is one case where logic has to take precedent over statistics. One area where Gasol and Garnett can break us down is offensive rebounding. Bringing in Troy Murphy would, on offense, pull Garnett and Gasol out to the three point line. Defensively, he may be a poor defender, but he could at least keep them off the offensive glass because Troy is one of the best defensive rebounders in the league. I would have no problem trading Z for Murphy (and getting Z back) if the top two options are not available.
Second on my list is RCF's heartthrob, Antawn Jamison. Jamison has an incredibly versatile offensive game that would thrive alongside Shaq and LeBron. The downsides to Jamison are his age, contract, and defense. Plus his rebounding is merely average. However, adding a 20+ point scorer to this team who pulls opposing big men out of the paint would help this team so much more than Jamison's below average would hurt us. With the way the Wizards are going right now, A simple Jamison for Z swap, with Z getting bought out should be agreeable for both sides.
Atop my list of PF's is David West. West has an amazingly favorable contract, and would be a long term solution at PF for this team. His ability to knock down mid range jumpers complements LeBron and Shaq very well, and his pick and roll/pop versatility would be very nice to see. West is a bonafide 20 point per game scorer who is in his prime. He's also a better defender than Jamison or Murphy, and an average rebounder. If the Hornets end up trying to dump salary, West is a player we have to take a look at. Even if they try to dump Peja or Posey on us, Peja expires next year and Posey expires the year after that. However, David West is the most unlikely player on this list to get traded.
Final Breakdown: If you made it this far, reading everything, congratulations. If you skipped, well, I really can't blame you.
In order to solve both our needs at SG and PF, the trade I'd most like to see Ferry pull of would be to help the Wizards in their firesale. We take back Mike Miller and Antawn Jamison by using Z and Wally. Now, the Wizards could add in the bad contracts of DeShawn Stevenson or Andray Blatche, or ask for picks or Hickson. Either way, I think that acquiring these two players really puts us over the top.
If David West is made available, the Cavs HAVE to look into getting him. He'd be a terrific fit, and is a piece we can add to our core. The Hornets probably won't trade him though, seeing as they've been winning as of late and are back in the playoff hunt.
If Mike Miller and Antawn Jamison are unobtainable, I'd try going after John Salmons and Troy Murphy. Salmons would probably cost us West, which is a trade I'm willing to do if it looks like West will be missing significant time due to jail/suspension. Murphy should only cost us Z getting bought out and returning in 30 days.
If we go after someone like West and use up most of our trade chips, or if we can't get one of the SG's I mentioned, then Mike Dunleavy, Thabo Sefolosha, and Ryan Gomes are three wing players that I would look at and should be available.
Well, that's my current stance on the Cavaliers' options at the trade deadline. I'd greatly appreciate any feedback you have and I'll gladly field any questions. Also, if there are options that I didn't consider that you'd like me to add, feel free to let me know. I think I probably put close to 24 hours or so of time into this post (does anyone know what the record is for the longest post on RCF?) and I thank you for taking the time to read this.
Last edited:
