It's not often for a former all-star currently averaging 20-8 to be traded to a team that has the best record in the league (let alone when it happens to Mighty's hometown team) so more in-depth analysis is needed.
The Z Factor - First off I understated is how beloved Z is here in Cleveland. From overcoming injuries, to willingly changing his role, his taking a pay cut to stay in Cleveland, to his work in the community. He has played more games than anyone else for the Cavs. At minimum there's a certain sadness to have him traded The rumor going around is that Z is going to be bought out by the Wizards. Dallas and Denver alongside the Cavs will be pitching to gain his services. If Z returns to the Cavs, then karma would be restored
Ferry and Trade Magic - My biggest thought is how masterful of a job Danny Ferry has done. Most GMs apparently spend their days trying to avoid accidently sticking a pencil in their eye , not Ferry. Last year Phoenix waited to the last second before saying no to the Cavs for a trade so when Phoenix waffled on trading Amar'e Ferry had the stones to walk away. Secondly, Ferry's creative usage of the Clippers (and Al Thorton) meant that the Cavs got to keep their promising young PF. The Cavs got Jamison for an expiring contract and a very very low draft pick. Amazing when you think about it.
Overall Outlook - The only question that really should be asked about the trade - does it help the Cavs win a championship. The road to the Championship for the Cavs runs through Orlando and LA. In that regard the Jamison trade seems to be a winner. Jamison is a better matchup against Rashard Lewis. He should force the Lakers to avoid their twin tower lineup (Bynum and Gasol). He improves their half court offense (a must in the playoffs). His professionalism means the Cavs have flexibility in using the right matchup (i.e., playing Sideshow or Powe). With the Z issue still unresolved there remains some downside risk but as of this morning the trade seems like a grand slam.
3 comments:
Definitely agree. No matter what kind of player Jamison is, the fact remains that they got him for next to nothing and still have a chance to bring back Z after 30 days (if he doesn't sign with another team first). It would be insane to think that the Cavs could've turned a draft pick in the 28-32 range into Antawn Jamison for the final three months of Lebron's current contract. If that doesn't make him want to stay with Danny Ferry, I don't know what else could convince him.
First, much love to Z. I'm going to miss him, whether its 30 days or longer. He is has been a great player for the Cavs.
Second, I think this trade is the absolute best option for the Cavs.
Had they traded Hickson and Z for Stoudamire, the Cavs would have a dominant force at center for all 48 minutes. But would have greatly suffered at PF. They would have Varajao and Powe only. Neither of which is a big scoring threat. I think their improvement at Center would have greatly exposed the PF position.
However, Jamison makes them rock solid at PF. They have Hickson, Powe and Jamison. That's 48 minutes of quality players. While they now have Shaq and Andy at Center, they have suffered slightly with the loss of Z.
So, I think the Cavs improvement at PF as compared to the loss at center greatly outweighs the gain at center through Stoudamire compared to the loss at PF.
In sum, I believe that this deal gives the Cavs the best option for winning a championship. On paper, this improves their chances. However, as a cleveland fan, im still skeptical.
I could be mistaken on this... but Amare doesn't normally play center. So... adding Amare would have forced a situation with only Amare, Varejao, and Powe at PF, with only Shaq at Center (and varejao playing out of position at center).
I think the real reason this trade rocks is they didn't give up Hickson (or even Moon). Hats off to danny ferry.
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