Buy-Low Big Men of 2013
By David MacKay
January 20, 2013; Orlando FL, USA; Orlando Magic power forward Glen Davis (11) defends Dallas Mavericks power forward Elton Brand (42) during the second half at Amway Center. Dallas Mavericks defeated the Orlando Magic 111-105. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
A lot of attention has been given to the Blazers’ free agency options this year (as it should) but far be it from me to overlook another venue for bringing players to Portland. Today that venue is trade. The Blazers will need to bolster their talents in the paint as much as they can next season. With Hickson likely to leave, the Blazers are left with an overworked Aldridge, a developing Leonard, and a miserable Freeland to run their post game.
Most of the ideas to remedy their predicament thus far fall within the realms of free agency and drafting. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for them, but there is more to be considered. If the Blazers decide to move pieces around in order to get some depth at power forward and center, they need to be looking in the right places. Otherwise, they could end up with very little cash for their anticipated revamp.
Basically, they should be looking at high-ceiling players that would not require entirely disassembling their core to acquire. It’s ok if they pursue someone on the expensive side, as long as the books balance in the deal. After the events of the 2012-2013 season, the following post players may be had, via trade, for less than they are actually worth.