I figured some homers would gripe about it.
That is exactly what is happening. This is a great trade for everyone but Memphis. If their goal is to clear cap space then let's make this happen tomorrow. If their goal is to get value for Gay and Gasol then they don't even take this call.
No way I trade Gasol for Beasley/Dudley/Melo and a 1st. Makes no sense for them.
Creative trade though. Don't let the negative posts get you down!
Thanks.....for a Boston fan to say this is somehow a bad haul for the Celtics though, was kind of hilarious but also annoyed me.
Like I said in my explanation, Memphis (for whatever reason, I don't think anyone truly understands/knows) has been in talks to unload players like Gay/Gasol/Z-bo. I don't know if it's ownership wanting to lower the cap, if they have a specific FA target next year, and their current roster prevents a future move or what...
I absolutely do agree, that Memphis would only be on board for this kind of deal if under that premise. I think that adjusting the 1st round picks in the trade so Memphis gets BOTH Boston's 2013/14 and Phoenix, would even it out a lot more.
Break down the haul that Memphis gets
Pros: * Formidable draft haul. Two more 1st rounders, giving them major draft flexibility. Having picks from BOS/PHO plus their own pick, could easily net them a pick between 4-8 range, IMO.
* Instant and future cap relief. They save 3 million in the proposed deal right away, but more importantly, they can waive Pierce at the end of the season, allowing them to make a play on basically any player they so choose in 2013/14. They are already under luxury tax this season, so the $$$ they save in the trade itself (Bayless going to PHO + 2.5 mil difference between Gasol to Dudley/Beasley/Melo = 5.5 million) can go to paying out the guaranteed portion of PP's salary.
If they stand pat with any two of Gay/Gasol/Z-bo (which again, I don't understand all the trade talks, but they are real), they will continue to be the same competitive team, but apparently in the eyes of their ownership, not a legit championship contender (and again, this is not based on my opinion)
Cons:* Losing Gasol thins out their big rotation this season considerably. They would likely have to roll with a lineup of Z-bo/Beasley/PP/Dudley (or Allen)/Conley, which presents less size overall. I think by next season though, Melo would be developed enough to step in to the Center rotation, and they have virtually a max-money amount to offer up to a Center of their chosing, OR can use their draft surplus to get a cheaper rookie big, and go after another max-type wing, assuming they waive PP (maybe Josh Smith)
* Many, including myself, could also argue that Memphis takes a big step backwards talent-wise this season. I still think they could make the playoffs with the previously mentioned lineup, but there would be almost zero chance of making much noise in the playoffs.