bleedspeed177 wrote:I would trade the 5th pick for either of these guys.
http://www.csnphilly.com/the700level/chad-ford-high-likelihood-sixers-trade-jahlil-okafor-or-nerlens-noel
I'm with you, bleed...I see Noel and Okafor as far better than anything that might be available at #5. Ford's take is that Philly is more likely to let Okafor go than Noel, so let's examine that deal.
Why do the Wolves do it? Because they get a solid low post scorer at #5 who was in the running for the first or second pick last year (although he ended up going 3rd). Jahlil averaged 17.5 and 7 (with 1.2 blocks) in only 30 MPG last year, and showed footwork around the basket far beyond the typical 20-year-old. Starting Okafor at C allows KAT to operate more on the perimeter where he can be effective, and gives the Wolves terrific defensive length.
Why does Philliy do it? Okafor was a 3rd pick last year, and his star was tarnished by some personal difficulties last year. To get a #5 pick for a guy with a reputation who was drafted #3 the year before sounds like a coup. Philly needs to create room for Embiid, and this would do it.
Okafor was universally described as a good kid in all the pre-draft discussion, and has been a best friend of Tyus Jones (known for his good character) since junior high. Jahlil didn't behave well in his first year in the NBA and any team trading for him would have to do their due diligence, but like Bleed, I see him as low risk.
If it's true that Philly plans to unload one of these guys, I would offer #5 to them for Noel, who I prefer because of his potential to be a game-changer defensively. If they say no, I would make the same offer for Okafor. Ford thinks they want to get Boston's #3 for Okafor so they can be assured of getting Dunn, but I would be surprised if Boston was willing to give that pick up for him. Getting turned down for #3 might make our offer of #5 look quite attractive, especially since Dunn is more likely than not to still be available there.
