daoneandonly wrote:arkuo wrote:Archx wrote:
Keep in mind that Kyrie is the only reliable shot-maker/creator left on this team, and in that regard, he's way more valuable than AD. It's also the primary reason why Mavs will be looking for another playmaking guard. AD is a big that can be replaced and wasn't needed at all to begin with...
The intention is to sell high on Kyrie and AD. These guys aren't getting any younger and Flagg is the future of the team. So either you trade them or try to win with them. With Nico at the helm now, it's close to impossible seeing his guys traded. So I don't see it happening. But of course we can do mock trades and all. With Nico still there, I think the untouchables are Kyrie, AD, Lively and Flagg. Without Nico, everybody's fair game outside of Flagg IMO.
As far as mock trades go, I'd give both Kyrie and AD for Amen Thompson or Cade Cunningham (with salary fillers). That's basically handing Houston a trophy IMO but I like Amen's fit beside Flagg.
Neither of those teams are doing that, not realistic at all. Kyries value isn't high due to the injury/rehab, and his skillset is needed. As Arch mentioned, we don't need AD and many of us don't want him either
We don't need AD? I wouldnt go that far. Without AD this team isnt a legit contender. A team must be anchored by someone to give us a real shot in the playoffs. AD is that anchor on both sides of the ball. When healthy the dude is a beast and gives you a chance to win big with adequate help. Its really simple... this organization has to make up their mind. Without AD, you become like the Minny Timberwolves but with an older scoring guard in Kyrie...you then have to re-construct your team.
I think if you give up on AD -- your basically rebuilding around Flagg. Then you also have to let Kyrie go as well. I'm okay with that. It comes down to the team owner basically deciding he wants to go in that direction. So far, it looks like their keeping AD and Kyrie but with this ownership - you never know.
Teams that would probably take AD:PHX for Beal and a pick or picks (if they have it)
NYK will may consider moving towns (depends on how they do in playoffs and if they think he can stay healthy)
Hou (may take a stab at him)
Mem (long shot)
Orlando (maybe, their contracts are all over the place)
DET (have the cap space, if they can steal him, and willing to give up a couple of 1st round picks, they might)
As for Kyrie, if you choose to rebuild, (a contender will probably trade for him) for really cheap but its more likely he plays out his contract and leaves next year. If that happens, he'll probably take his sweet time healing up.