3 players OKC Thunder should aggressively target via buy-out or trade
Moose on the Move?
Its no secret the Phoenix Suns want to extend rookie guard Mike James. Scott Bordow of azcentral reportedly engaged with Suns GM Ryan McDonough:
McDonough reiterated to me today that Suns want to sign Mike James to standard NBA deal before his two-way contract expires Dec. 6. My guess how they'll do that: Create roster spot by dealing 1 of 3 centers
— scott bordow (@sbordow) November 20, 2017
Greg Monroe, Alex Len and Tyson Chandler are the centers fighting for playing time.
Len is 24 and playing inspired basketball. Averaging 9 points and 9.4 rebounds in 23 minutes per game, Len is proving he belongs. He fits Phoenix’s ‘youth movement’ thus its unlikely the Suns trade him. Chandler is 35 years old and guaranteed 13.8 million next season. His age and lofty contract make him difficult to move.
This leaves Monroe on the outside.
Acquired from the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eric Bledsoe trade, Monroe is a throwback big man with exceptional skills on the block. Ridiculed for his lack of defensive chops throughout his career, Moose has a career +1.1 defensive box plus-minus. A terrific passer from the low block, Monroe is capable playing the four. Potential high-low action with Adams is an intriguing prospect..
Nobody trades for offensive-minded big men due 17.8 million dollars. With Mike James’ two-way contract set to expire on the December 6th, Phoenix must create a roster spot to sign him. If Monroe is bought out, Oklahoma City is sure to express its interest.