The real questions are (1) who's worth trading your best player for
Assuming you are talking about Tatum, here are the guys I'd trade Tatum for:
Definitely Luka, Giannis, Jokic, AD (it would have to be a sign and trade)
Most likely Kawhi, as long as our medical staff has no concerns about his long-term health.
Probably SGA, but the Thunder would have to send us additional asset(s). I'm very high on SGA.
Possibly KAT, although I get why many of you guys wouldn't do it.
(2) where in that list of players is the realistic cutoff line between trading chip you'd part with and the players you keep short of getting the best player in the league.
There is no such line in my book. Everyone on our current roster should be available for the right price.
my list would be even shorter for a Tatum trade.
- Giannis if he agrees to resign here.
- Luka if he's truly healthy --> mostly because he's a much better ball handler and passer while being just as good a shooter. He's got more time on his rookie deal which might be the deciding factor for me. I haven't seen him play enough to know how good his D is. That's what makes me hesitate.
After that, I don't think I move him for anyone else for varying reasons.
- AD - had no interest in coming here so I have no interest in moving Tatum for a rental
- Jokic - I like him but I think Tatum plays the position that's more the focus of the league now.
- KAT - questions about motor and effort.
- Kawhi - several years older than Tatum. costs more. questionable desire to play in Boston long term. needs his 'workload' managed
- SGA - not in Tatum's league. Nice player to have. Tatum is and will be better.
- Lebron - too old
- Durant - Health questions, much older, questionable desire to stay in Boston.
- Embiid - Health and attitude questions
- Zion - need to see a lot more but the kid makes an impact when he plays
no one else jumps out at me as an option worth considering.
And as for my book, it depends on your team roster and team chemistry. We have really good team chemistry this year. that makes a real difference on the court in terms of improved play. I'd hang onto Tatum, Kemba, Jaylen at least. Would take an unrealistically good deal to get me to move Smart or Hayward. After that, I'd consider anyone else available if the deal makes sense for the C's.