February 22, 2005

MOST RUMOURED TRADES MAKE LITTLE SENSE FOR RAPTORS

       With GM Rob Babcock now regarded as a buffoon in NBA circles (after the botched—so far—Vince Carter deal) it is imperative that he begin to buff his tarnished image and improve his disgruntled roster by Thursday’s trade deadline.  But then I hear that Babcock puts the possibility of a trade at only 35% and I’m flabbergasted.  For Babcock’s sake, and for the future of this franchise I hope that he is merely proffering up the usual indifferent trade speak.  The Raptors need an infusion of new bodies—if not an extraction of old ones—to re-energize this moribund club.  He has an opportunity, if he’s not gun shy, to do it now.

       The major deal rumoured to being discussed has Rafer Alston, Lamond Murray and Donyell Marshall going to New Orleans for Baron Davis.  On the surface this might look impressive—Davis would certainly replace Carter as the number one option on offense—but the mostly unhealthy and unhappy Hornet has shown that he is over neither of those qualities this year.  Also, the inclusion of Marshall--probably the most discussed player at the deadline and who’s stock is rising rapidly by day—makes no sense.  If the deal can be massaged whereby an Eric Williams can be included instead of Marshall then it might be a little more palatable for the Raptors.  But that contract—another four years at approximately $60 million means that having divested themselves of Carter’s contract will mean little, and the club will once again be carrying two (along with Jalen Rose) players with long term monster deals.  As well Davis’ health concerns are almost as daunting as his contract and it may behoove the Raptors to pass on this one.

       There are a few rumoured deals involving Marshall.  The first one is ludicrous—the acquisition of the slow footed Malik Rose and the four years left on his contract from San Antonio.  The second one has the Raptor big man on his way to Miami for a couple of marginal players and a draft pick.  This trade is just a little less ridiculous since the draft choice will likely be at the bottom of the first round, and with the Raptors already holding two first rounders, as well as a likely early second rounder—and the fact that they are unlikely to have that many roster spaces available-- then this trade becomes pointless.  The third deal involves the 76ers and talented young center Samuel Dalembert.  This trade would be a no-brainer if Dalembert was under contract past this season, but with free agency beckoning—and a possible big deal—the Raptors might not be able to afford him.  If they think they can re-sign him then this is definitely the deal to make. 

      There are also some minor deals out there involving Eric and Aaron Williams, but unless something substantial comes in return it might be best for Babcock to hold on to these two for fear of further humiliation and retribution from the Carter deal.

       If Babcock is able to shed some of his mediocre talent, open up some playing time for young talent like Matt Bonner and Pape Sow, and acquire one or two difference makers then this deadline will be called a success.  If Babcock can simply move Marshall for something positive, then this deadline will be graded as simply meeting expectations, but if nothing is done then Babcock will have to endure a few more months of verbal attacks from all over the NBA. 

      And from The Fan View.