OKC Thunder trade primer: Brooklyn’s expiring deals could upgrade OKC’s roster at the deadline
Ed Davis
2018-19 – $4,449,000
2019-20 – UFA
Ed Davis is a blue collar player whose game is predicated on hustle, determination, energy and aggression. The 29-year-old big man is averaging 6.0 points and 8.8 rebounds in 18.3 minutes and has built a reputation as a fantastic locker room guy.
Blessed with a 6’10 frame with a solid 7’0 wingspan, Davis uses his excellent anticipatory skills to out-hustle opposing bigs to rebounds, loose balls and plays hard each time he graces the court.
In his best performance of the season, Davis posted a monster 17 point, 16 rebound double-double in the Nets win over the New York Knicks.
Davis fixes one of the Thunder’s greatest weaknesses – defensive rebounding. Oklahoma City are one of the leagues best NBA squads but are prone to lapses on its own glass. Should OKC trade for Davis, he would add depth to the Thunder’s front court.
Potential trade
In order for Oklahoma City to move Alex Abrines to Brooklyn, the Thunder needs to include a second-round pick since the Spaniard has barely played over the last six weeks.
The Nets are continuing to accumulate future assets to make a splash in next year’s free agency and adding a future second-round pick will push the deal through.
Final Thought
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While the Thunder would benefit from the acquisition of either player, it does come with its drawbacks. Carroll’s contract is humongous and acquiring him is almost impossible given the way OKC’s roster is constructed.
While Davis solves the Thunder’s rebounding concerns, he cannot shoot outside of five feet of the hoop. The Thunder have improved exponentially shooting the rock from the outside but there will be concerns playing Davis alongside Grant, Noel and Adams.
Oklahoma City are rolling at the moment and neither one of these players move the proverbial “needle”.
Next. OKC Thunder trade primer: Slew of Heat support talent may present deadline opportunity. dark
But who knows with Sam Presti, he is the master of surprise.