5 Best Fits for Andre Iguodala in 2011: Could He Revive Lakers?
Andre Iguodala's name has been brought up in many trade discussions for the Philadelphia 76ers over the past season. The ninth overall pick in the 2004 draft, out of Arizona has been one of the better all around players in league during his career.
His high flying dunks and defensive prowess are his strengths, although shooting has never been a strong point in his game. He's averaged 15.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists though out his career.
With Philadelphia's addition of Evan Turner (No. 2 overall pick of 2010 draft) many wonder if he is still needed on the 76er roster. He could be moved to make room for the development of Turner and the rest of Philadelphia's young core.
Here's a list of five team's that Iggy's skill set would fit. Each team is on the verge of putting together a spectacular season but may be lacking a piece or two.
Originally appeared on BeyondtheWhistle.com
5. The Philadelphia 76ers
1 of 5The young 76ers were on to something in 2010. If Iguodala stays, the team would have a year of playoff experience already under their belt, as they try to improve on a 41-41 regular season and first round playoff berth behind emerging star Jrue Holliday.
4. Golden State Warriors
2 of 5The Warriors are a young exciting team led by Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry. Ellis name has already come up in trade rumors.
A sensible deal could be a swap for Ellis who makes $11 million dollars and PF Jeff Adrian along with cash to the 76ers for Iguodala whose deal is worth $12-million-plus a year.
This would give the Warriors more size, and better defense as well as a proven scorer for Philadelphia
3. Memphis Grizzlies
3 of 5Memphis took Oklahoma City to seven games in the Western Conference Semifinals and have a chance to make some noise again next season.
Rudy Gay was hurt the last half of the season. A deal for Rudy Gay, and Darrell Arthur for Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young and cash would make a lot of sense.
This would give the 76ers the experienced size they lack down low while giving Memphis the same type of players with similar offensive production but better wing defense.
2. Orlando Magic
4 of 5The Magic ended the 2011 season on another disappointing note losing in the first round to the Atlanta Hawks.
They may need to shake up their roster if they want to keep Dwight Howard in Orlando. The best deal here would be a swap for Jason Richardson and Iguodala. The newly acquired Richardson averaged just 10 points this post season, when they thought he would come up bigger.
Iggy could bring a much needed defender to play against the likes of Lebron in the future in addition to providing scoring. Iguodala could be the missing piece in Orlando as well as the sticking point for Dwight Howard.
1. Los Angeles Lakers
5 of 5The Lakers season ended in utter embarrassment in a sweep to the Dallas Mavericks in the Conference Quarterfinals.
Kobe is not getting any younger and could use some help. Mike Brown prides himself on defense and Iguodala could be an upgrade to Matt Barnes whose performance in the playoffs was shoddy.
A trade involving Andrew Bynum and Andre Iguodala along with one of the rookies would make the most sense here as the contracts are similar.
For one it could give the 76ers the post presence they are looking for in addition to taking pressure off Bryant since Iguodala can score and defend the best player on the opposing team, while Kobe can conserve himself and focus on closing out games.
It would also clear space for the free agent addition of Dwight Howard in 2012 since Bynum would be gone.
