Melvinlocker wrote:letsgosuns wrote:Melvinlocker wrote:
I can respect that position. What about our LAL top 5 protected 2019 pick + Stephen Zimmerman?
The issue with that is three years from now, the Lakers core of Russell, Ingram, and Randle, plus whoever else they have could be very good. So that pick might not be a lottery pick or anywhere close to that. Also, since that pick is three years away and Knight can contribute to any team right now, I imagine the Suns would want an asset they do not have to wait at least three years for.
Here is the key though. The Suns traded the 2015 Lakers pick top-5 protected to acquire Knight. So why would they trade Knight for a weaker asset now, especially with him signed for the next four seasons at a bargain compared to all the new contracts. In addition, that pick, now owned by the 76ers, is top-3 protected for 2017 and becomes unprotected in 2018. It has implications on the the 2019 top-5 protected pick the Magic own. According to this site: [http://www.prosportstransactions.com/basketball/DraftTrades/Future/Magic.htm], if the 2015 Lakers pick that the Suns traded to the 76ers for Knight does not convey by 2017, then the 2019 Lakers top-5 pick the Magic own turns into second round picks in 2017 and 2018.
There is a legitimate chance that Lakers pick the 76ers own will not convey until 2018. Then the Suns would in essence have traded Knight for two second round picks. There is no way the Suns would take a chance like that. And as far as Zimmerman goes, the Suns already have two 7'1" centers, drafted two new power forwards, and have a third string center on the team as well. So I see no reason they would want another center who was just drafted number 41. If they were interested in that guy, they could have drafted him at number 34 where they drafted Ulis. So ultimately, the trade is going to have to involve the Magic's 2017 pick with very little or no protection. Also, assuming Knight plays well, wouldn't the Magic be competing for a playoff spot anyway? If they do not make the playoffs next year, do you really they think they would be any worse than a mid to low lottery team.
I like Knight, but I just don't think he is worth a pick with little to no protections. I understand your gripe about our 2019 pick though. In my book, Knight is worth a top 10 protected pick & a young prospect (Elfrid). Also, I highly doubt Ulis sees the court much for you guys anyway with your roster as is and I don't think a Payton trade changes that. Once you add in either Harkless or Aminu, I think that is paying a premium for Knight.
The Magic and Suns do not make a good trade partner regarding Knight then. What the Suns would want, the Magic will not give up. What the Magic are willing to give up, the Suns do not need.













