Post#30 » by eitanr » Mon Aug 4, 2025 1:11 am
I see this as a two scenario route leading into off-season:
1. pre training camp: RJ for Allen/Richards move
-Should improve Ingram's value until deadline, who has largest gap to climb back up in value
2. At trade deadline, I could see Detroit, Philly and Dallas maybe being partners. Below are more likely alternatives:
Detroit: Harris, Ivey + future protected 1st
Dallas: Marshall, Washington, Gafford
Philly: George, McCain (Raps would need to add Acgabi).
-These moves now elevate roles for youth like Dick, Acjabi (if not included in a deal), Walter, and Murray-Bowles. Barnes also has a more clear run away to lead. Poetl and Quick also see elevated usage.
3. 2026 off-season. Re-evaluate pick situation, Barnes' value and specific youth fits.
A. Is Barnes the guy or is it worth while to move him? Castle was noted bc I could see his value diminishing some given a poorer fit currently in San Antonio. Before you go jumping at me...think about Fox/Harper/Castle together? Pending Portland's success, yes, they are an interesting candidate. Could be picks, more youth etc. Finally...and this one may be considered somewhat wild, BUT I am predicting Cooper Flagg will have an underwhelming rookie season given a real poor fit in Dallas. I think he's a 4 not a 5, and the fit next to Davis AND with Kyrie will subject him to more 3 and D type which will hurt his play. Barnes meanwhile is a better fit, especially with a defensive mantra. Barnes in a deal for Flagg could have legs given that prediction...maybe I am nuts. Another idea is Philly...George will still have his bad deal, and I could see VJ Edgecome being an interesting fit in Toronto...could have something there.
B. Gradey Dick may be another candidate to move pending fit. I like a Cason Wallace like target here.
C. More hopeful is IF the Barnes/Dick/Bowles trio has more legs AND Poetl and Quick's values increase and then more cap shedding is feasible.