devin3807 wrote:-= original quote snipped =-
Remind me how Kirilenko performed in the Playoffs last year.
Also, the Phoenix comparison is not a good analogy.
I think this is one of those deals where both teams pass.
In the first round, it was his help defense on Yao and the ability to run the offense when Williams needed a breather that got them past the Rockets. He was the one who took over offensively in game 6 and forced game 7 for his team. Then in round 2 he went nuts guarding everyone from Steve Jackson to Baron Davis in order to end the Warriors storybook run. He wasn't scoring a bunch but his defense and passing was key.
This team needs someone who can run, defend, and finish. Around the basket, he's a fantastic finisher because of his insanely long arms. He also gets the to free throw line a lot. Defensively he's a beast, but playing away from the basket takes away one of his best skills, shot blocking. His length and superior timinglet's him get to a lot of shots. He gets tons of steals on reach-ins and is virtually impossible to shoot over.
I think Utah makes this deal because they realize that they are misusing a guy who they owe a lot of money to. They would glady take on Hedo's versatility. I think Orlando should do it because it gives us an elite defensive presence and we have a player who can fill Hedo's role as playmaker (hopefully) in Rashard. This guy was an All-Star before Boozer came to town and slid him to the 3. WHy not take a chance?