Orange_Blue wrote:The Blazers are good but really need a third option alongside Dame & McCullom. In my eyes, Nurk is a 4th or 5th option on a true contender.
That said, would you do the following deal:
Portland Trailblazers
Trade: Zack Collins + 2020 FRP
Why: The Blazers need shooting help and an upgrade at either forward position. Acquiring a max level forward is not realistic nor makes financial sense for the team.
Chicago Bulls
Trade: Lauri Markkanen
Why: The team needs to stockpile draft picks as they rebuild under new leadership and quality rookie payscale players on roster. They will have to make a huge financial decision on Markennan soon, w/ a roster that's not ready to take the next leap.
Allows Markkanen to compliment Nurkic as the much needed floor spacing forward, while assuming a natural role as a third option. Portland keeps core intact while continuing to develop recent draft picks (Simons/Little).
After the deal, go after a defensive minded wing using the vet's minimum (Mo Harkless/Roberson/Tony Snell (flier), while returning current vets (Ariza/Anthony/Whiteside) on roster.
Thoughts?
No chance on the trade. Blazers wouldn't trade Collins for Markkanen straight up. Markkanen has a better floor game and is probably a better shooter, but none of that is what Blazers want. Blazers want Collins's defense. Collins will be one the best defensive big men in the NBA.
We will take Mo on a veterans minimum. I doubt this will happen. Mo can play, someone will pay him.