There's an article today, postulating that Dumars may trade Rip for the opportunity to draft 7'3 Thabeet out of UConn. If Washington lands outside the top two spots, they'll dangle that #3 or #4 draft pick for a veteran shooting guard, and the Pistons have one of the best.
I have a big problem with this. I'm not sold on Thabeet as an NBA player. Typically, if the Pistons land the #3 overall pick, they'd get quite a player (OJ Mayo, Al Horford, Deron Williams, Ben Gordon, Carmelo), but this is not a strong draft. In '06, the #3 pick was Adam Morrison. The pick is only as good as the draft class. Furthermore, it seems that Joe D would be again dealing a player when his stock was at its lowest. Hamilton is still an elite player, with all-star skills. When focused, he'll consistently score 18/night, and he's money at the line. He's done it in the playoffs, against top defenses, and, at age 31, still has plenty of productive years ahead of him.
The player to trade, if a trade must be made, is either Stuckey or Tayshaun. Tayshaun, we now know, is a complementary player. He's somewhat unique with his expansive reach and shot-blocking ability, but he's just an average scorer for a small forward. The Pistons need a scorer out of that position. If they landed that type of player, it would take the offensive pressure off Stuckey and Hamilton, and allow the big men to focus on rebounds. If they got a scoring big man like Bosh, all the better. Tayshaun and the #15 for Bosh? Make it happen.
You know what I don't think Thabeet is NBA ready yet, but I'm willing to wait for him to develop. I think he definitly will be a good pro. I don't think Detroit is going anywhere for the next few years with this team anyways, especially with the cavs and Lebron playing so well. I still think everyone is tradable. I'd like to keep Stuckey at this point, and do like the tayshaun and #15 pick for Bosh. but please no Boozer
ReplyDeleteThat's a good point, Rich. Pistons aren't going anywhere for the time being. No way they'll topple the Cavs with Lebron. They've got the Central locked up for the next few years, barring injury.
ReplyDeleteWith his size and strength, Thabeet could turn into the best player in the draft. Of course, he could also turn into Darko. He's very raw and has only been playing hoops for a few years.
Tough call... you'd like to get a more developed player at #3, but this draft class has no sure things.
I'm actually sold on Thabeet. He is raw, but unlike some other big men busts, he seems to possess the desire and willingness to become an elite player. As he is right now, he'd make an immediate impact for any team in the NBA based on his size and shot blocking instincts. As far as trading Rip, he clearly played and acted like someone who'd like to get the hell out of the "D". I used to think Boozer was hella underrated, but from actually watching him during the playoffs, he might just be another stat stuffer, a la CWebb. I've used the analogy plenty of times, but that dude was the ultimate regular season double/double guy who disappeared after May.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Anonymous? I like Thabeet, trade rip and don't like Boozer. We need to start getting young. I would also take a chance on Stephon Curry from Davidson, I think he can play similar to rip, plus you can trade rip now , while he is still good.
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