Why it works for the Raptors: They have two superb PG’s, so getting rid of one to get a player like Outlaw or someone they want in the draft isn’t a huge deal. Plus they get a solid, veteran backup in Steve Blake.
Conclusion: This really works for both teams, and I could really see something happening. Toronto may want something else though, since they value both of these PG’s very highly.
New Jersey Nets
The Players Sparking Interest: Richard Jefferson
The Trade Bait: Travis Outlaw, Raef LaFrentz, #13 Pick
Trade Rumor: Jefferson for Outlaw/LaFrentz/#13
Why it works for the Blazers: It gives them a great SF and makes them immediately viable in the west.
Why it works for the Nets: They get a young forward with a ton of upside, another lottery pick to start re-building and an expiring contract that ends next year, giving them their chance to make a run at LeBron.
Conclusion: While I think the Nets would love this deal, I’m not so sure the Blazers would be willing to give up their two biggest trade assets for 1 aging player.
Orlando Magic
The Players Sparking Interest: Keyon Dooling
The Trade Bait: Jarrett Jack, Steve Blake, Travis Outlaw, 2nd round picks
Trade Rumor: Jack/2nd Rounder for Dooling or Outlaw for Dooling
Why it works for the Blazers: It gives them a nice, defensive-minded PG who doesn’t make a lot of mistakes.
Why it works for the Magic: They get a young, solid SG and an early 2nd rounder they can splurge with. Or they get Travis Outlaw, enough said.
Conclusion: If the Blazers trade Outlaw for Dooling I will hang myself in my front lawn. There is no way this will happen. They may however try to get Dooling with Jack and a draft pick, but I’m not sure this makes enough sense for the Magic.
Chicago Bulls
The Players Sparking Interest: Kirk Hinrich
The Trade Bait: Travis Outlaw, #13 pick
Trade Rumor: Outlaw/Hinrich or #13/Hinrich
Why it works for the Blazers: They get a solid PG who can contribute immediately.
Why it works for the Bulls: They get rid of an overpaid PG who they don’t want and get a young player with a ton of upside in return (via Outlaw or the draft)
Conclusion: This could very well happen. The only problem I have with this is the fact that Hinrich is not that much better than Steve Blake, a player the Blazers already have. However, if the Blazers offer this and the Bulls don’t accept, someone in Chicago needs to be fired.
In case you can’t see the trend, the Blazers are after two things: a PG and a SF. They can go about this via the draft, a trade, or a combination of the two. The biggest thing I want to see happen is the acquisition of BOTH of these needs.
In reality, the Blazers have two trade assets: Outlaw and #13. I don’t think they should use both of these pieces for a PG or a SF. They need both. If they use these assets and some of their complementary pieces wisely, they should be able to add what they need to be a playoff team next year.
All I know is that Kevin Pritchard is a man with a plan and anything he does will have a purpose. I trust him. I think. But, my time here is done. It’s time to meditate under my Greg Oden poster. Until next time.
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