The Layup Line
A Series of Short Shots
Danny Ainge, GM Pacesetter
Over at Hornets 24/7, the latest post reads, “The Boston Celtics: your 2008 NBA Champions. From rock bottom a year ago to the top of the mountain today.” True enough, and there is a lesson here. Two of the last three NBA champions were propelled to the title on the strength of a pair of blockbuster off season trades. Those teams were Boston and Miami.
The lesson in this for the observant GM is that draft picks and young assets can be overrated. If you have a chance to land an elite player, then you should probably make the move. John Paxson, I’m talking to you.
The formula for winning in the NBA is relatively simple. Basically a franchise needs 3 stars, tough-minded role players, and the ability to play lock down defense. That’s it. If you have those, anything is possible.
With players like Billups and Anthony available on the trade market, I’d think long and hard about holding a Tyrus Thomas or Louis Williams in too tight a grip. And take heart Miami, you’re not so far away.
