Is there anyone via trade that could make Raps contender?

[TGM]

I really think we should go after Artest in the offseason.. he said he'd play for NY for MLE. Maybe we can get him for that price too? Sam can keep Artest's attitude in check and knowing how well the raps get along, maybe the friendly atmosphere affects Artest in a positive way too? One thing I know is that he is a good defensive player and a tough dude. I'd like to get him on this team.

Artest can help put us over the top really.

Having Artest is like taking steroids. Short gains, long-term pains.

[chuckerz]

What would you guys think about an Elton Brand trade?

Ford
Bargnani
Dixon
Garbajosa
Graham

for

Brand
Knight
Williams
Ross

This trade would obviously depend on EB and Ford showing that they are healthy. Brand was just cleared last week to do extensive running and jumping work and should be good to go in around 3 weeks. I'd say the trio of Calderon, Bosh and Brand would have a very good chance of going to the finals.

Brand is the clipper's franchise player unless they want to start building around Kaman. But If the clippers want to rebuild, this is probably the way to go as Bargs can play PF and TJ could take over Cassel's spot if Livingston doesn't come back. They also need a 3pt shooter since they sit 28th in the NBA and they'll get that with Dixon and if Garbo returns.

Raps can finally get some toughness downlow with Brand if he decides to comeback into his former all star state. And Ross provides with defense and Knight as a back up.

[AB_21]

All of the trades we're talking about (superstar for cap relief, picks, young guys, good contracts) have to pass a couple rules for the Raps to consider them.

1. Yes, it may hurt our cap. But does it put us in salary cap hell? If the answer is yes then don't do it.
2. Will we have to give up multiple first rounders? If the answer is yes, then don't do it.
3. Bosh? No way.
4. Does this trade make us considerably better to the point where we are championship contenders? If no, then no deal.
5. Do we have any major holes that would be the downfall of our team even if we did add this player? If yes, no deal.

There's more probably but what I'm saying is that with the way the Raps are building now--it sure doesn't seem like a trade like we've been mentioning will happen.

[viceroy]

ron artest would be awesome on this team. hes been on good behaviour , relatively, and he brings the kind of win or die attitude that is contagious. i think sam, colangelo, and bosh are a triangle strong enough to influence ron artest in a positive manner. if motivated we have workhorse tank terrorizing opposing players laying to rest the toughness issues surrounding this team . which is essential to win in the playoffs. let artest be a little crazy if he wants. as long as opposing players are scared of him.

[Darrick Martin]

I'd rather have a team that that gets in the wins and get into the playoffs regularly rather than going all out and going for the championship for 1-2 years. It'd be nice if we brought fear upon our opponents similar to what Phoenix, Spurs, Mavs, Pistons do to others.

[whoknows]

I'd rather have a team that that gets in the wins and get into the playoffs regularly rather than going all out and going for the championship for 1-2 years. It'd be nice if we brought fear upon our opponents similar to what Phoenix, Spurs, Mavs, Pistons do to others.

I guess you don't agree with what Boston did?!?

Perennial playoffs team doesn't have a chance at a future Shaq, Duncan, LBJ, Oden, etc. At best is a 7-8 years sparring partner that will make a bit a noise until the next cycle.

I'd rather play my chance of getting the championship now rather then linger in the playoffs with no real shot...

My reason is why wait if you have a window of opportunity that others don`t have?
I mean wait for what? Players development is a reason, but then it comes with a big risk of not keeping a true competitive player, accidents, chemistry, etc.
Wait for that window to open again in future, hoping that I get more courage then?

I don't advocate to jump for the sake of jumping, but a calculated gain (ala Boston) is well worth it IMO. Just imagine the splash bball would make in Canada & international echoes when Raps can win it all.