NBA Chat With Eric Pincus 2/28/12

jonathan

Is That True That The Lakers Will Acquire Sessions For 1-Round Picks And Michael Beasley For Odom Exeception??

Eric Pincus

Time to chat. The trade deadline is nearing. I’m sure it’ll be lively today.

Jonathan – if I take your question literally – then no. that’s not legal. The trade exception isn’t big enough to take on both players, only one of those two. The Lakers would have to have some other sort of trade bait (Josh McRoberts?) to land someone like Sessions if the exception took in the higher-salaried Beasley.

Zaddiel

What trade gonna do the lakers????

Eric Pincus

If you asked Mitch Kupchak that question, he’d have some ideas but he wouldn’t have the answer either yet.

jey

Lakers: Scola, Beasley, Ridnour, draft pick (Knicks)
Rockets: Gasol
T’Wolves: Martin

Best trade package for all teams IMO. Your thoughts?

Eric Pincus

Lakers wouldn’t do that. They want far more than that for Gasol.

Kyle

Hey Eric, who says no to this deal… Josh smith and Kirk Heinrich for pau gasol and Steve Blake? Lakers save a bit of money, get younger and more athletic, and get a player slightly better equipped to start at PG. plus they still have their trade exception to maybe get beasely and could still sign arenas…. The hawks get a cheaper backup PG for a backup role and an all-star calibre big to fill in till horford gets back, and then play alongside him when he returns so he can play PF like he wants. Plus it opens up PT for mcgrady and Williams so they can quit complaining. your thoughts?

Eric Pincus

I’m not sure the Hawks want to make that financial commitment to Gasol when they have the younger, cheaper and capable Smith.

Art

Does D12 sign an extension with the Lakers if he is traded there?
If not why not take LA off his list?

Eric Pincus

Howard isn’t signing an extension with any team, including the Magic. He’s going to opt out eventually (or technically he may opt in and stay another year in Orlando) – and then sign a brand new contract for five years. He’ll get fewer years by extending so that’s not the preference. If he does get dealt to LA, I’d expect him to stay long-term despite what is said before-hand. Beyond that, teams and players can’t make promises to each other about the future – so there’s some element of risk regardless.

Samer Naoum

Why the Lakers don’t keep Pau and get Arenas?!
regardless anything, this would be, in my opinion their best choice for this season, and they can test free agents in the summer…

Eric Pincus

So far it’s all Lakers today, but there are a lot more questions in the queue. The Lakers don’t believe – at the top – that they have the long-term core in place for the next 2-5 years so they’re looking to restructure and Gasol, economically, likely needs to be dealt for more reasonable pieces (financially) and better balance across the board.

Alex in Burbank

By the time you get answer this Tuesday everyone would have heard about it I think if my source is correct. But what do think of this possible trade that just might happen. Cleveland gets Lakers 8.9 Million exception. Orlando gets Barnes, Gasol and Bynum, Lakers get Ramon Sessions, R. Anderson, Hedu Turk and Howard. Remember you read it here first. Your thought?

Eric Pincus

Interesting. The inclusion of Anderson with Sessions might make it appealing to LA. Technically Cleveland wouldn’t get an $8.9 million exception, they’d just get an exception for Ramon’s salary. I’m sure they’d also get a first-round pick in your scenario as incentive? I haven’t run the numbers but it’s really two separate trades. Lakers/Cavs – and then Pau/Drew/Barnes for Howard/Turkoglu/Anderson.

I’m skeptical and if someone is telling you it’s a done deal? That part I don’t buy. As far as I know, the Magic are still deciding their path with Howard.

maestro

Let’s talk trades: Lakers send Pau Gasol and Steve Blake to Houston, Luke Walton to Indiana + 3 million (shed salary), Minnesota sends, Beasley, Wes Johnson to Lakers a number #1 to Indiana, Houston sends Luis Scola, Dragic, future #1 to Lakers, Kevin Martin and a second round pick to Minnesota.

Eric Pincus

I mean, I don’t really look at 4-team trades with any seriousness. I appreciate that people put time into it because they’re passionate and all about being fans – but has there been a 4-team trade midseason before? If so how often? Not often . . .

Derek

Eric my man, love your articles.
Tell me, wouldn’t the Lakers be better served keeping Gasol rather than trading him for the scrubs that some are suggesting.
All they need is a proper 1 who has skills but has recently fallen on hard times (Harris/Felton) and either pray MWP rediscovers his mojo or a get a one-dimensional 3 (either a gunner or a defensive specialist) then they can challenge for the trophy, no?

Eric Pincus

I will say the Lakers won’t trade Gasol if they don’t feel they’re getting a very strong return.

John Connor

If you were a GM and could draft a 21 year old Jason Kidd or Derrick Rose who would you pick?

Eric Pincus

If I were GM? It’s hard to say but I would say most would probably take Rose based on his athleticism over Kidd – obviously not looking backwards on what they’ve accomplished as pros but as prospects coming in.

Aristotle

Hi Eric,
I could be way wrong here but apparently Kobe killed the CP3 trade, told Superman he’ll be option 3 killing that trade, not happy with Odom being traded, and not sure about Gasol since he doesn’t seem to happy. Well what is it that Kobe wants? Is he back to chasing individual awardsand records?

Eric Pincus

Kobe didn’t kill the CP3 trade at all. That’s just not accurate. Equally, if there was any differences between Howard/Kobe, Dwight has always had the Lakers on his second or third tier after New Jersey and Dallas. That said, he Dwight still may end up in LA. It’s just easy for some to blame Kobe Bryant and Jim Buss for anything negative it seems. I try to be more objective.

alan

Any way that the bulls could pry paul george from indy after the season? maybe asik, a first and ronnie? he would be an incredible addition as a big 2 with size to guard threes that can create.

Eric Pincus

I’m thinking the Pacers hold onto George.

Ray Suansing

Hi Eric,

Do you find it odd that after wanting to be in the All-Star Game so bad, that Andrew Bynum was taken out after playing very few minutes?

Is this only related to his knee being re-injured or is he being limited because this is a precursor to him being traded?

What do you speculate or what have you heard? Thanks.

Eric Pincus

Bynum wasn’t supposed to play for 48 hours after getting a routine (for him) injection into his knee. He had agreed with Scott Brooks to play the first few minutes of the game and then sit the duration. This was pre-planned.

Felipe C.

How serious is Kobe Bryant’s nose fracture and concussion from the ASG?

Will he need to wear a Rip Hamilton type mask? Will he miss any games?

Eric Pincus

Ends up no concussion and the impact of the nasal fracture is unclear as of yet.

Carly Bezilla

How likely is it the Sheed will be signed by the Lakers? What do you think his roll will be and who is he replacing? My guess is that Pau, McRoberts or Troy Murphy are on their way out.

Eric Pincus

Wallace is one of many options the Lakers are lining up (possibly Gilbert Arenas as well) to fill in holes in the roster that trades may create. There are a lot of variables up in the air. We wait to see because really, there is no real answer yet.

Neyda De Pau

Do you know if the rumors of the Lakers trying to get Dwight Howard are true? One day someone says the Lakers are in deep negotiations with Orlando and other days someone says Orlando doesn’t want Bynum.

What’s the truth?

Eric Pincus

The truth is that you have 30 teams negotiating on different levels of intensity. The Magic haven’t decided what they’ll do. The Lakers haven’t decided what they’ll do. Depending who you ask, different sides want to put out different messages to the public – keeping in mind that if and when trades do not happen, they need to make sure they haven’t alienated the players they were shopping.

It’s uniquely busy for the Lakers given they’ve been mostly a stable team for most of the millennium except for the brief Kwame/Smush phase!

We wait and see is the truth. That’s all we can do – but that won’t stop people like me and others in similar positions from digging and trying to get the answers before they are truly revealed.

Charlie

What would you do if you were GM of the Lakers and had full authority on all roster decisions?

Eric Pincus

I’d be shopping Gasol as well. The key to remember is that a team can’t make a move in a vacuum. They need other teams to agree in trades – free agents, etc.

Mr. B

Clippers have recently signed Bobby Simmons. Is this move temporary or does the team have bigger fish on their radar? Or if all else fails at least they have Simmons?

Eric Pincus

Temporary move unless he proves he’s capable of contributing.

badoodelz

do you think we will ever have a dunk contest feat. KingJames, Blake, DH12, Josh Smith??

Eric Pincus

Temporary move unless he proves he’s capable of contributing. I don’t get the feeling we’ll see that ever.

Eric

Gasol for Lowry and Scola, what do you think and does either side say no?

Eric Pincus

Lowry is a centerpiece of what the Rockets are trying to do and I just don’t believe they’ll move him for Gasol. That doesn’t mean they won’t change course but I don’t believe they will.

sean

would you take gasol for rondo/allen? or gasoll for rondo/bass or rondo/O’neal?

Eric Pincus

I’d probably do any of the three if I was the Lakers, naturally in the order you listed as far as preference.

Vito Villegas

Hi Eric! Toronto is said to be open to moving Barbossa to make room for Wilson Chandler. Do you think the Lakers might be able to acquire him with Odom’s TPE? In your opinion, would it be a good move for the Lakers?

Eric Pincus

Yes, that’s a move the Lakers can make but one I wouldn’t make. Barbosa is a scorer – and LA could use a scorer – but he’s a two-guard, not a one. I’d pass.

Vito Villegas

What happened to the rumor that the Lakers were set to acquire Rasheed Wallace? Will this move mean that Pau Gasol is dispensable?

Eric Pincus

A retired Rasheed Wallace coming back is not the kind of move that makes Gasol expendable. It’s more like LA may open a spot up at the four and need help and Wallace may be the best they can do midseason.

javier garcia

What up E? These next 2 1/2 weeks are going to get crrrazzzy. What do you say about Sessions, Beasley & Arenas to finish the second half of the season while keeping the core while dumping Kapono, McRoberts & Walton.Then decide on Gasol on draft night?

Eric Pincus

On some level a possible path, although I’m not sure LA is dumping those players per se.

hoops czar

Not trying to side-track you from your weekly Lakers chat, but do you think the Spurs can make a play for Omeka Okafor?

Eric Pincus

I’m serious but it’s really up to the readers to ask questions. Thanks for including a Spurs/Hornets play! I know the Spurs are looking to add in another solid, competent center (like Chris Kaman). I haven’t heard anything on Okafor but I could see that. Naturally it would depend on who is going out and long-term budget given San Antonio will still have Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker and Richard Jefferson getting paid beyond this season (plus Tim Duncan’s future to resolve).

johncarloyu

Is there any leg on Beasley and Felton going to the Lakers?

Eric Pincus

There may be a “leg” or two. Those are two possible moves for the Lakers with their exception depending on what other trades come through – if other trades come through.

johncarloyu

Rumor 3-team trade involving the Lakers,Magic and Wolves.
Lakers gets Howard and Barea
Magic gets Bynum and Williams
Wolves get Gasol

Is this true?

Eric Pincus

Don’t believe it is.

johncarloyu

Rumor 3-team trade involving the Lakers, Magic, Raptors
Lakers gets Howard, Nelson
Raptors get Gasol
Magic gets Bynum, Calderon

Is this true?

Eric Pincus

I don’t believe it is but then it’s hard to prove a negative.

johncarloyu

What will Sheed be able to help for the Lakers? He helped increases the average age of the team.

Eric Pincus

Sheed know the game. He is a tremendous defender when healthy (if healthy) and can shoot the three. If motivated, he has a post game. Obviously it depends on what kind of shape he’s in.

Chris

I was just wondering about the lamar odom trade with dallas. was it actually 2 seperate trades, one with the lakers and mavs swapping draft picks and a second involving the tyson chandler trade exception for odom?

Eric Pincus

Nope, just one trade.

Anthony

Hi Eric,

It seems more and more like Orlando is willing to roll the dice and play out the season with Dwight. Let’s say that happens. Let’s also say that Deron goes to Dallas, but they are not able to clear enough cap room to sign both him and Dwight.

My question is – seems that LAL would suddenly be the frontrunner for Dwight again – especially if we shore up some of our weaknesses with smaller moves before the deadline. Do you agree?

And also, in that scenario, if Orlando has “sour grapes” and doesn’t want to take Bynum back in a sign and trade – can Dwight sign with another team that has cap space… but in a sign and trade to the Lakers?

As long as he’s healthy, I know there are a lot of teams with cap space who would want Bynum… so seems reasonable they would participate in a sign and trade that sends Howard to LAL and they receive Bynum in return?

Let me know if this is possible and what your thoughts are.

Thanks – love all your chats, rankings, tweets, etc.

Anthony

Eric Pincus

I see the Nets still as a very viable destination for Howard. We can trace a path leading him to the Lakers but you may be reaching a conclusion based on the conclusion you want to reach. Thanks for the kind words – EP

Chris Collins

I was reading this morning where its a rumor that the Buss family is upset with Kobe Bryant because of his involvement in the Dwight Howard sweepstakes. Is this true or is this overblown in your opinion?

Eric Pincus

Overblown but I don’t think the Buss family is happy when Bryant makes public statements or tries to “help.” Even Kobe admits that he’s not right for the GM business – but then sometimes he can’t help himself.

Chris Collins

Andrew Bynum was quoted saying this past weekend that he didnt really care where he plays there is a bank in every city, does this upset the Lakers and is he on the block for other players not named Dwight Howard?

Eric Pincus

No, Bynum has always been in trade rumors and ultimately it’s out of his control so he has to be fatalistic about it and say the truth – he will be paid wherever he plays and can’t spend day and night worrying about it!

Chris Collins

If you were the Wolves GM and I offered you Andrew Bynum for Ricky Rubio and Derrick Williams or Ricky Rubio and Kevin would you consider this trade and do the Wolves do it?

Eric Pincus

Sure but no they won’t.

Chris G

There’s an idea going around about giving the dunk contest winner one million dollars. If that happens, doesn’t the league then need to open it up to anyone who wants to take part? How do you tell someone like Jeremy Evans, we appreciate you volunteering when nobody else wanted to do this for free, but now that big money’s involved we only want LeBron and Blake, so take your double-ball dunks and get lost.

Eric Pincus

I’m sure the league would still pick contestants – that’s not different than it is now – it’s up to the league not the players who gets the invite.

a different matt

As a Colorado transplant from LA (20+ years ago)… I will openly admit I have grown to hate the Lakers and Kobe in particular, but after watching the All Star game, I must admit, I would love to see nothing more than a Heat/Lakers finals, save for the Nuggets making a miraculous run of course. My question is, do Kobe/Bron-Wade have legitimate disdain for each other? The star lovefest that has become the NBA could really use some good ole fashion rivaling stars, do you agree?

Eric Pincus

There is a natural rivalry there but also mutual respect. Remember, these guys were teammates on Team USA. That was a pretty brutal foul by Wade in an exhibition game though!

jey

Can you rank who the Lakers should target for thier PG search?

Calderon, Felton, Sessions, Ridnour, Dragic, Hinrich, and Flynn are availble and more possible… Lowrey and Rondo seems less realisitc.

Eric Pincus

Calderon is probably too expensive. Sessions makes a lot of sense though he can’t shoot very well. Felton has talent but is in the middle of a miserable year. I don’t like the Hinrich fit any more. Flynn isn’t very good – or hasn’t proven to be. Dragic is a solid backup. Ridnour is better than Blake offensively but not by a large margin and he a poor defender. Lowry is great across the board but seemingly not available. It’s unclear what decision will be made on Rondo by the Celtics. We wait . . .

Jazzfan

What are your thoughts on the dunk contest? as a Jazz fan I was excited to see Jeremy Evans win and I thought his two ball dunk over Gordon Hayward was the best of the night and loved his tribute to Karl Malone, although if Derrick Williams had been able to stick his last dunk he would’ve had my vote as winner, overall I wasnt impressed with the contest but at the same time what can really be done to make it better? people say props are ruining it but without the props there are maybe a handful of dunks that havent already been done a million times you know?

Eric Pincus

It wasn’t a great dunk contest and that’s being kind. I will say I was happy for Evans, that was a tremendous dunk – one of the best I’ve seen in years. I actually picked him to win in the HOOPSWORLD preview. As far as making it better? Not quite sure other than a monetary reward that attracts some bigger names.

robert

Hi Eric!

Why don’t the Lakers just “BLOW IT UP”? I don’t particularly like the “rebuilding on the fly” method. It only delays the inevitable. I would like for the Lakers to keep their two #1 picks. If they do their due diligence, they might come up with a VERY good player, even in the low 20′s, (especially in this draft). What say you?

Robert

Eric Pincus

The Lakers aren’t going to find players that will help carry the franchise at their draft positions. Unless LA can get into the top eight – which I doubt – I don’t see a true benefit in building through the draft. Other than Bynum. who on the roster over two decades was a significant LA draft pick?

Matteo Fernandez

You mentioned that OJ Mayo could also be a Laker target. Do you think the Laker could dangle Josh McRoberts for him?

Eric Pincus

The Grizzlies have had interest in McRoberts in previous years. We’ll see if that can be revisited on some level. I’ve heard Mayo is one of the many names LA is exploring – but no reason to think he’s more likely than any of the others that have been rumored.

Efren23

Do you think
Clippers should use trade exception and cook
To get Barbosa?
Should Clipper explore Bledsoe for mayo again?

Eric Pincus

That’s not a legal move. The Clippers, from what I’ve been told, plan on keeping Bledsoe given the long-term uncertainty at point guard on the roster.

Cain

Should dude posted a trade of Asik, Brewer and Pick for Paul George. Anthony Macri said the Bulls were giving up too much, but there is no way anything short of a Superstar will get him outta Indy right?

Eric Pincus

I’m not sure what it would take but I just don’t see any reason why the Pacers would deal him. They have a lot of cap room and a young, emerging player. Why would they move him?

Madiochus

Any rumblings out of the Golden State camp regarding trade rumors/possibilities and what their plans are concerning trying to trade into the draft? Thanks!

Eric Pincus

I haven’t heard anything yet about the Warriors and this draft. I believe at some point the Warriors will put Monta Ellis on the block. Word is they want to keep both Steph Curry and David Lee. I’m not sure what they’ll get in return for Ellis given most teams are going to prefer Steph. Then again, Monta is a scorer and his contract is reasonable. We’ll have to wait and see – I look at the Warriors as a wild card . . .

John

In your opinion why don’t the lakers go after Monta Ellis I think hes developing into a great gaurd.

Eric Pincus

Age and budget. I’m not sure if they think he’s enough for Gasol but equally, I could see the Warriors offering him and the Lakers considering it before all is said and done.

Madiochus

Can you see Golden State putting some sort of trade together that could land McGee from the Wiz? If so what kind of an impact could you see him having? I know he’s a space cadet but with some direction I could see him making strides. And I’m not buying into the Udoh hype as I don’t view him as the long-term solution…thoughts?

Eric Pincus

I don’t believe McGee will be dealt at the deadline but it’s something to ponder. I somehow expect McGee to end up in Golden State – he’s a player I don’t quite have confidence in as a winner. He can play mind you, but that could be the kind of questionable move that has kept the Warriors out of the playoffs all these years I’m afraid.

Anthony

What do you think is more important for a rebuilding team, securing a high draft pick or getting their young players playoff experience if they are a fringe playoff team?

Eric Pincus

It really depends – if you’re talking the Cavaliers who would get a middle pick vs. getting Kyrie Irving playoff experience? I’d go for the postseason. If you’re talking the Toronto Raptors? Entirely different story.

Madiochus

Under the premise of “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” can you see Golden State and Washington trading problem for problem in Biedrins and Blatche (+ filler?) Granted Blatche is a knucklehead (but as a Warriors fan I’d trade sensitive headcase for knucklehead 7 days a week) and Washington fans are clamoring to get rid of him but its also time that Warriors fans storm the castle walls and call for Biedrins’ head. He should have been amnestied…thoughts?

Eric Pincus

That’s an interesting idea given that they’re $23.4 million on Blatche’s contract past this season (three more years) and $18 million Biedrins over two. It’s still kind of junk for junk right now – but at least Blatche has some upside. I don’t know if the Wizards get enough out of it – other than a player who has struggled for a couple of years now – and out of Blatche.

Taylor

Are the Clips going to make any trades before the trade deadline? If so, for who? What are they expecting from Bobby Simmons?

Eric Pincus

The Clippers like their assets too much to deal. They don’t want to give up players like Mo Williams and Eric Bledsoe. They don’t want to give up a first. If they can find help with their trade exceptions and second-round pick(s), or stick with free agency (perhaps if Bobby Simmons has any gas left) then they may just take the simpler route.

If someone like Ray Allen came up? That might change LA’s priorities.

Zach

Love trade season! What are your thoughts on this blockbuster:

Phlly gets: Gasol, Barnes and a 1st from the Lakers
Lakers get: Iggy, Milsap and Devin Harris
Jazz get: Jrue Holliday, trade exception from the Lakers and a 1st from the Lakers

Philly gets the big they covet, a rotation guy in Barnes and 1st to add to their youthful core.

Jazz gets a young point they want plus tons of cap room. Suddenly they might be better off than Indy.

Lakers get a pg, sf and pf who all fit pretty well into Browns system.

Eric Pincus

I’m skeptical that the Sixers trade All-Star Iguodala – and that the Jazz trade Millsap.

Kurt

Any chance Rasheed plays tomorrow? How will Brown’s inconsistent rotation be affected by adding Rasheed?

Eric Pincus

Tomorrow? That’d be a trick given he’s not on the team yet – and may not be at all.

Coach Greer

Eric, would the Clippers have any interest in Odom if released by Dallas?

Eric Pincus

I believe it’s safe to say that Donald Sterling won’t ever pay Lamar Odom another dollar – that didn’t end well the last time.

Evan

Hey Eric, I know as a Nuggets fan right now that a major reason we’ve gone 4-12 in our last 16 games is because we aren’t healthy and we probably should just wait it out till we get Gallo, Nene and Lawson back but, I would really like to see us shake-up our roster a bit. Any chance, what so ever that any of the following trades could be made.

Lakers Get: Andre Miller, Al Harrington, Timofey Mozgov
Nuggets Get: Pau Gasol

or

Lakers Get: Andre Miller, Nene, Draft Pick
Nuggets Get: Pau Gasol

Would that be enough to make the Lakers bite on a deal for Gasol or would they want more value than those two trades, thanks.

Eric Pincus

I don’t see the Lakers going there – and the Nuggets just need to get healthy. I haven’t heard any word that Denver is really a buyer on the market.

gus26

everyone keeps saying dallas won’t have the cap to offer d.will and d.howard the max even if they trade marion for nothing cut everyone and amnesty hayward… but what if they cut everyone trade marion and amnesty dirk?
would cuban dare amnesty dirk if it meant getting howard and williams?

Eric Pincus

The point of it is having Dirk to play with Howard and Deron.

gus26

would jim buss amnesty kobe if it created enough space to sign deron williams and howard?

Eric Pincus

No, that’s not a consideration.

gus26

have the lakers really moved on from howard?

Eric Pincus

No, they have not – though they’re not sitting around waiting for Dwight to happen and forsaking all other opportunities – quite the contrary.

gus26

blake and mcroberts for raymond felton?… done march 1st right?

Eric Pincus

That’s a fan-generated rumor as far as I know. I don’t know where Portland stands on their two former players.

gus26

any way the lakers can position themselves to be players for at least one max player this off season?

Eric Pincus

Not if Kobe Bryant is on the roster making $27.8 million next year – not realistically anyway.

Chris Jordon

I read your twitter and am wondering why is March 1st so critical for the Lakers trade aspirations? Are McBob, Kapono and Murphy vital to their trades?

Are they linked to any major trades or just minor ones to fill in the roster after a big trade?

Eric Pincus

Looking around the league about 25% of the players can’t be dealt because of the signing restriction that is lifted March 1st. It’s important to note that a team can’t make a deal that puts their roster over 15 players. It takes time for players to clear waivers – so for a team to waive to make spots and then wait two days to make a trade? That just doesn’t really work. Additionally, in rumors we often hear the big names but in reality it’s the minimum guys who may be necessary as ballast to make the numbers work. Someone like Jason Kapono may absolutely be necessary in a big Lakers deal – but more importantly look at the other 29 teams and their needs when it comes to trade. Across the board, most teams are waiting until March – and clearly there haven’t been any trades recently and it’s February 28th – so I’m not far off here.

byron g.

There was a report that Lakers are by far the most active on the trade market, so much so that the reporter had to charge his phone constantly.

What’s the latest you have heard?

Eric Pincus

It was the “GM” that the reporter spoke to who had to change his battery because of the Lakers (Sam Amico the reporter mind you) – but maybe that GM just needs a new battery?

byron g.

Was all the false rumors and gm misinformation going on how do you as a beat reporter filter out the junk from the real laker rumors?

Eric Pincus

Actually I’m a columnist not a beat reporter. I only report on information that I can get some sort of verification on from people I trust. If I’m taking another reporter’s word for it, I cite them in my articles. There’s always misinformation this time of year but that’s part of the game. It’s a fun time too – although the players don’t particularly enjoy it.

byron g.

Have you ever been asked by a Lakers front office person not to report on a trade rumor for fear that it will botch the deal?

Eric Pincus

That’s not how the Lakers operate frankly. The difficult part in general is that agents, players, other GM’s and other personnel are often privy to pieces of information. Others have overactive imaginations – and even speculative pieces that are designated as such – can become urban legend as “trade rumors.” It’s difficult to navigate through that. Certainly most teams would prefer information doesn’t leak but often it does.

Last year’s Deron Williams trade was unique while the Melo trade was the exact opposite on every level.

byron g.

Are the Lakers really feeling the Need for ‘Sheed?

Eric Pincus

Doesn’t everyone at some point have the Need for Sheed?

Drew

Thoughts on
LA- Scola,Beaz, JJ Barea and one or both of the 1sts Minny has from Utah and Memphis
Houston- Gasol
Minny- KMartin

Eric Pincus

Still don’t think that’s enough for the Lakers to deal Gasol.

jared c.

Two years I bought a Bynum and a Gasol jersey. Now it looks like either one can go out in a trade.

Is it time to craigslist the Bynum or Gasol jersey?

Eric Pincus

Or keep them as legacies?

@InfraRen

Today we heard the Wolves have inquired about Anthony Morrow. We also learned that the Nets (and Celtics) are interested in Beasley. Could they be swapped? Would help Wolves a lot, and Beasley could be scorer for them. ?

Eric Pincus

I’m still catching up on the rumors of the day. I haven’t heard about Morrow and the Wolves as of yet. I know Minnesota is shopping Beasley and that Wolves need a two-guard. I don’t know their take on Morrow.

Quincy

Do the Timberwolves have a shot at the 8th seed? Think of the intriguing Thunder/TWolves 1st Round matchup…

Eric Pincus

They do although it won’t be easy.

Miguel

Why… why… WHY!!!… are so many people getting away with the “LBJ is terrible in the 4th/at closing games” when there is much statistical evidence that he has been one of the leagues best at that through his whole career and way better than a lot of people with a better pedigree (No.24)?

Eric Pincus

I would argue naked eye beating out statistical evidence.

jared c.

What one trade(with a specific player name please) would make this Laker team into an instant contender?

Eric Pincus

Walton for Howard? Or Morris for Derrick Rose? I’d have to check the numbers. In all honesty, there’s isn’t necessarily a straight single path to a ring. The Lakers have size and skill but are very, very, very slow on their feet.

Awais

Hey Eric,

What are the chances the raptors can sign Eric Gordon this off-season?

Eric Pincus

I don’t believe the Hornets will let Gordon go, even on a near max or max offer sheet for four years. We’ll see – it depends some on the healthy of his knee.

Nick

Rumor has it that Atlanta would trade Williams, Hinrich and 2012 1st rounder to Cleveland for Sessions and Jamison? What do you thing of the possibility of this trade?

Eric Pincus

I haven’t heard that as of yet. It really depends what you think of Marvin Williams. I’m not sure he’s worth his salary but then maybe Atlanta hasn’t been using him properly? Can’t say I love it for the Cavs.

Nick

Keep hearing the Cavs and Kings will be used to get rid of players for draft picks since they have cap space? What team and players are looking to doing this?

Eric Pincus

Just look at teams who want to get out from the tax, or into cap room. We’re over on the chat already so I can’t quite pull up the numbers.

Nick

What will the headline be on March 16 for the Cavs?

Eric Pincus

Anderson Varejao back from injury – hopefully – fantasy concerns on my part.

George

What is the status of aaron brooks?

Eric Pincus

He’s in China past March 1st and by that – the only team that can legally sign him this season is the Suns. If they don’t offer him a deal – he’d be restricted this summer.

Floyd

Hi Eric,

One thing I haven’t read too much about is the Lakers’ team option on Bynum’s final year. What is the last day they have to excercise that?

Eric Pincus

I’d have to look – usually it’s the end of June for options – but not always.

Craig

Forgive me for my non-trade related question. The NBA skills competition has a lot of potential but it will never succeed with players going 50%. Kyrie Irving’s first run was embarrassing. Is it really too much for these guys to go full or 3/4 speed for 30 seconds?

Eric Pincus

I actually enjoyed the Skills this year – it just took a minute for the players to figure out what pace to go at. I anticipate Irving will get another chance in the future and will take it at a quicker speed than the other day.

Darren

With the trade deadline just around the corner nba.com believes that there is a 75% chance that Gasol will be traded. What trade rumors out there can you actually see happening involving the Lakers?

D.Howard is said to not be willing to resign with the Lakers if traded there.With that being said should the Lakers still make that trade if a deal comes to the table, and hope that the Buss family can keep Howard in town once he gets there?

Eric Pincus

That’s just speculation and my thought, deemed the Pincus Principal by Larry Coon, is that a trade is never more than 49% likely. In the case of Gasol – I’d put it closer to 25% and that’s high for me.

Art T

Do you feel that Jeanie Buss will take over if Jerry Buss feels that Jim lacks leadership and business skills? Maybe not this year, but next year if the Lakers are eliminated in the first round. Assuming they hold on to a seed.

Eric Pincus

Jerry Buss has a lot of confidence and faith in his son Jim.

Leo

I feel like I’m in the minority when I think that the Lakers just need 2-3 guys that can contribute 8-10 pts per game consistently (Which a Sessions/Beasley acquisition might accomplish). I don’t feel a Bynum+pieces+picks/Dwight swap does that much at all to solve our issues, to be honest. Am I wrong?

Eric Pincus

I would argue the Lakers don’t believe that in general – barring great deals – so that’s where you’re not finding commonality. We’ll see though, Gasol isn’t traded yet. They may agree with you in the end when looking at the alternatives.

Fil

Eric, thanks for your years of Lakers insight. There has been a lot of conversation surrounding the potential trade of both Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol to the Magic for Dwight Howard, Hedo Turkoglu and Jameer Nelson. My concern here is that this leaves the team extremely thin at the 4 (with or without Rasheed Wallace) and may not solve the problems at the 1. Do you think Jameer’s presence in this trade is worth giving away both of our twin towers? Also, isn’t Turkoglu’s contract pretty toxic?

And the second, unrelated question – any chance the Lakers try to get rid of MWP? I have been a big apologist for the guy, but he just looks out of it in Mike Brown’s system and his shot has disintegrated.

Eric Pincus

I don’t buy that the Lakers give up Pau/Bynum for that package but anything is possible I guess. As far as Peace, if it comes down to it, LA can amnesty him over the summer.

gus26

heard howard saying no to resigning with lakers is just to give leverage to lakers so they don’t have to trade bynum and pau for howard?… howard want to come for just bynum so they have pau to flip and somehow net them deron williams… thoughts?

Eric Pincus

I honestly believe Howard likes the idea of playing in Brooklyn or Dallas with Deron Williams. He also likes – perhaps on a secondary level – playing for the Lakers. Sometimes what we feel to be the truth based on reports is distorted. We may never know the complete picture here.

Quiet

Are the heat going to do something to acquire a big man. Maybe trade Bosh and Miller for Al Jefferson and Millsap.

Eric Pincus

I believe the HEAT wait out the deadline and look to see who gets bought out – that may be the best move too for a team that’s right there on the verge.

Eric P

Hey Mr P,

Think Bird makes a move before the deadline? If so any guesses?

Eric Pincus

I could see the Pacers adding a piece given their cap room. . . .

gus26

anyway the lakers can end up with howard, deron williams and beasly by the deadline?… i’ve never predicted a trade before but i’m going out on a very long limb and saying this happens.. agree?

Eric Pincus

I don’t see how the Lakers get Deron. Barring a crazy three-team trade similar to what almost landed LA Chris Paul, I don’t see the Nets dealing Deron for someone like Pau.

Eric P

So how do you think the Eric Gordon thing plays out? Resign with NO for max contract? Sign with the Pacers , or trade?

Eric Pincus

I see Gordon signing an offer sheet – probably with the Pacers – and the Hornets matching and keeping him for four more years.

Baywarrior

Good day EP! I was woundering if $ can be added to trade exceptions for trade purposes.

Eric Pincus

The Lakers can send $3 million out in a trade – but through the end of June they can only send out $3 million in total for all deals. That monetary value has no bearing on what they can bring back in trade – they can’t take in more than the $9 million from the Odom exception ($8.9 million plus the $100k padding).

Navjit Parmar

Hey Eric. Have Lakers inquired about Rajon Rondo? Judging by what Mitch KUpchak said in an interview earlier this month, it seems highly possible that the Lakers could indeed trade Pau Gasol for Rondo

Eric Pincus

Yes the Lakers have inquired about Rondo but the Celtics (and the Lakers) haven’t decided on their paths just yet and will in March, either way.

Lateak

I really dont y dwight howard wants to play 4 tha nets.. They stink to high heaven… Tha lakers r a much better option.. Is it true kobe messed it up

Eric Pincus

The HEAT were awful until LeBron and Bosh got there. It’s not in present but future value – and with Deron/Howard – and some smart moves, they’ll be a high-level competitor if that comes to pass.

Jim Buss

Is World Peace even movable? if so what can we get in return?

Eric Pincus

Perhaps something like an Andris Biedrins or Stephen Jackson? In other words, nothing the Lakers really want right now – as far as I know.

Lateak

Do u think my knicks can win a series… N do u think jeremy lin is the long term answer

Eric Pincus

Yes and certainly he may be.

David K

Hello Eric,

The Lakers are adjusting to the new CBA like everyone else. Do you see them putting a team together like in previous years, with that ‘go for broke, luxury-tax-be-damned’ attitude if their championship window is open? Or will we be looking at a scaled back Lakers team for years to come?

Eric Pincus

The Lakers are trying to restructure their budget so they can compete under the terms of the new CBA. That probably means they’re not paying $19 million for their third option (Pau).

Budz

Is I true that Brandon Roy might make a comeback?

Eric Pincus

If he does – it wouldn’t be this season. A retired player needs permission from the Board of Governors to come back into the league same year. Roy isn’t going to get those votes.

Sean

Clippers, congratulations on great season!
But… when it comes to financially keeping this team together to stay competetive will donald sterling open his wallet? If Mo Will opts out will they resign? Will they resign Chauncey? Will Blake get the max extension? Will they resign CP3 to his max? Clips already have about 40 million commited to Caron, DJ, and Paul next two seasons.

Eric Pincus

The Clippers will keep this team together – at least based on basketball reasons not economic ones. I could see Williams leaving because he’s unhappy in his role – but that’s not because of Sterling, the Clippers and budget. Believe me, LAC sees the value in fielding a great team – they’ve sold out every home game all season.

Dee

How about rights to Oden, Batum, Wes Matthews, a #1, $2 mill, and Felton’s expiring for Gortat and Nash?

Eric Pincus

I don’t believe the Suns trade Nash this year or at all frankly.

Ttime

How much trade value does a Brook Lopez have around the league? If a 3rd team gets involved in any Dwight Howard trade to the Nets, I am just curious to know what value guys like Lopez or Humphries would return.

Eric Pincus

Keep in mind that Humphries can veto any trade. I’m not sure what value Lopez has given his injury but I’m sure teams have interest.

Mitch

Clips trade TPE to Milwaukee for either Delfino or Livingston. What do you think?

Eric Pincus

If the Bucks are willing perhaps. I haven’t heard those names other than fan speculation but it’d be that kind of under the radar move I’d think for LA to fill that spot.

Arley

Hey Eric, I follow you on twitter and I appreciate your accessibility to NBA fans, like myself. Here’s a somewhat, non-Lakers question for you:

Amidst all the Dwight rumors and Prokhorov’s bid for the Russian presidency, what are the odds of NJ letting Deron Williams walk? Logic says trade Deron and get pieces back, but I think NJ would be best served by just letting him walk, clearing up salary, and rebuilding through the draft. I’m sure that may test Prokhorov’s patience, but why not just start clean and build from the ground up, a la OKC, San Antonio, Memphis? Thoughts?

Eric Pincus

I wrote about Deron earlier today http://www.hoopsworld.com/nba-2-deron-williams-questions-new-jersey – naturally they want to keep him, that’s no surprise. But if it comes down to taking a bad deal back for him (if they don’t get Howard)? They’ll just roll the dice on free agency and cap room if they have to.

Anh

Do you think the Lakers offensive struggles have anything to do with Mike Brown constantly deferring offensive coaching/play calling to John Kuester? I don’t think it’s a mere coincidence that the Cavs struggled offensively with Kuester at that helm. And lets not forget the history of players not respecting Kuester and tuning him out (Pistons anyone?).

Eric Pincus

Actually the Cavaliers started out deficient offensively but got better and better each year. I’m not impressed by what Bron has done offensively at all but the team does play defense. It just may take some time and personnel changes to get there on the offensive side. A different coach – perhaps Rick Adelman – would get more out of this roster and the pairing of Gasol/Bynum but that’s not who the Lakers hired.

David

Do you think there is any realistic shot for the Clips to get Ray Allen?

Eric Pincus

I’m afraid this will have to do for the week. I skipped a lot of questions I’m afraid and went over 30 minutes as it is! By the way, if the question submitted is really lengthy, or a link to some trade machine – it’s probably going to get skipped.

David,

As I noted, the Celtics are still deciding on a path. They may go young. They may try to build a team around Pierce with vets for two more years. They may deal Ray – they may deal Rondo. It’s unclear. If they do decide to make a move, Mo Williams could help them at point – especially if Rondo is gone too. If Boston wants youth, perhaps Eric Bledsoe and filler makes some sense.

I don’t want to pretend it’s likely – its’ not. The Clippers are prepared to make small moves (Simmons, trade exception, etc.) but if Ray truly became available to them – they may be motivated to deal.

I look forward to finding out the results to all these questions by March 15th . . .