Post#116 » by ExplosionsInDaSky » Sat Dec 30, 2023 4:11 am
I think we have to roll with what we've got outside of maybe a small move at the deadline. I can dream about Mikal Bridges all day, but I don't think that'll happen. Brooklyn is competitive and they look like they're at least an 8th seed/play in team. They may actually be fine with being just that until they can make a bolder move for another star player. To me they are in a decent spot right now. Playoff team, competitive, one star player away from challenging in the east again.
Will Cleveland move Mitchell? I think at some point they might, but it should not be to us. I think Mitchell has actually held back Darius Garland (although injuries have too). I like Mitchell and it's 50/50 on who I would take between him and Maxey, but Mitchell has to be "the guy" at the guard position. He can't co-exist with Garland and he definitely cannot co-exist with Maxey. Dante Exum, Duncan Robinson, Kevin Huerter, Isaiah Joe. Those are just a few examples of the type of guards you pair with Donovan Mitchell.
I can definitely understand the frustration with Melton, but I think some of you are extremely hard on him. He does a lot for this team and despite the mishaps on driving layups, the guy has been a gamer all season long for us. He's come up with big defensive plays and he's hit some bit shots for us at times. I honestly feel like for the time being, we're comfortable with him as the starter next to Maxey despite the lack of height. Ideally I think we're looking for a third guard to pair with them that can also create on offense, hit an open three, and guard small forwards when needed.
Dejounte Murray fits the last description, but he'd cost us our beloved Marcus Morris and probably Springer and a FRDP. Maybe more, I don't know. I know Atlanta gave up a lot to get him a year ago. I don't think they are ready to take a lowball offer for him, but I do think he's on his way out of Atlanta. I'd be excited if we could get him. You move Melton to the bench, but still play him a lot of minutes and Murray makes for a complimentary running mate with Maxey.
Sticking with Atlanta, if we decide to go for a wing defender, De'Ander Hunter would be great here. As long as he could stay healthy. He's the prototypical athletic 3&D wing and who knows? Maybe a change of scenery would do him some good. Morey has a knck for nailing those type of players over the years. If I'm Morey, I'm calling and asking about both Murray and Hunter. I'd take either one here in Philly.
Lastly, Malcolm Brogdan comes to mind. Portland just needs to sell him off. Why even bother with trying to get a Kings ransom for him. Get a pick and an expiring contract and be happy. He's more than ideal for what we need, but I feel like Portland is going to be tightwads about it.
Some other names I like,
Tre Jones- probably more of a future stash for us, but he's a decent point guard.
Aaron Holiday- Houston would probably part with him, but he's been a nice part of their rotation as of late.
Corey Kispert- Not sure he's available, but he'd be a good fit here.
Jalen Suggs- Not happening
Spencer Dinwiddie- Not happening until the summer when he's a free agent