I don't like the deal only because of what's left after the trade. They're bench won't be able to beat the NY Liberty.
Don't forget that Allen and Pierce were out with injuries a good chunk of last season. If you're going to count on those three guys, who's picking up the slack when one of those guys go down?
If they have injuries, they're screwed. Same can be said for most teams though. But they're not trying to become the best team in the NBA, which would have been impossible to do in the offseason. What they're trying to do is to become the best team in the East, and by most accounts they're now in the top 2 or 3.
They're still no lock for anything, but they're much better than they were a month ago. And as far as their bench, they still have some work to do. I don't see what they could possibly offer, but there are small rumors about talks for Marcus Camby. I don't think that's realistic personally. But they should be able to use the veteran slot (can't remember the exact term, but it's the $5 million vet contract I believe) to get someone decent, now that there's a lot more incentive for guys to come play in Boston.
I agree they're a better team and I see them at maybe a three seed in the East, but that's all they're ever going to be because of how much money they have invested at those three spots. I see the positives of having these three guys on the same team, but you also have to look at the negatives. When the Nets or Pistons comes to town, Kidd and or Billups will chop this team apart.
GM's in this league have to look at the Pistons or Spurs as the blueprints for how to win championships and the key is balance. You can't throw two or three superstars out on the court and expect to win it all. (Unless you have a freak like Shaq still playing at a certain level) You lock yourself into salaries and can't maneuver any more for other positions.
Everyone used to say that when teams with big centers came to town, they'd chop up teams like Detroit. But that didn't happen, in part because of coaching. That said, I'd sure like someone better than Doc coaching the new big 3.
Also, it's a bit unfair to judge them now rather than waiting to see how the dust settles. As it stands though, this teams has the potential to take the #3 seed you mentioned, and make a run to the finals under the right circumstances.
Gerald Green, Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes and a first round draft pick for Garnett? This is a crime, McHale should be arrested for theft.
Make it two, terrible deal for Boston. How can you question where the young talent got them last year? Thats really silly, young talent takes time.
I though Ainge was trying to build a contender? I guess he's panicked and is now throwing away all their young talent in hopes he can secure a championship now. Huge mistake, they're not winning a championship with this roster of "superstars". Sure they'll be competitive but in the long run it won't be worth it.
We're not talking about guys who are just potential and haven't proved anything.
Jefferson is already a double double guy averaging 16/11.
Gomes put up 12 pts a game with a shooting percentage of 47%.
Green put up 10 pts a game just averaging 22 minutes a game.
Plus the first round pick.
Minnesota has just hit the jackpot. I dare you to bump this thread in 2-3 years.
