15 Trades Involving Kenneth Faried and an Eastern Conference Team
By Tim Hart
Boston Celtics
Trade Machine Results: Denver +1 Wins, Boston Unaffected
This trade would give both teams a refreshing look. The Trade Machine suggests that this trade would be low risk. Both teams could see a positive outcome.
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Why the Celtics would do it:
Jae Crowder has developed into an incredible defensive player with an offensive game that is improving. But, the Boston Celtics will attempt a run at championship, and they may just need more scoring. Al Horford is a quality center and alongside Kenneth Faried, they could put together a terrific starting lineup.
Chandler would have a better chance to shine as a Celtic, and they could use a little more offensive productivity at the SF spot. Crowder’s perimeter defense would be missed, but Chadler’s ability to create off the dribble could add a useful spark to their offense.
As it stands, the Celtics are simply paying Amir Johnson too much for his level of production. He is slightly more capable of spreading the floor than Faried, but also much less likely to have an impact game. By adding Faried to their starting 5, the Celtics would get more bang for their buck.
Why the Nuggets would do it:
A similar situation exists for the Nuggets and Wilson Chandler. With Danilo Gallinari on the roster, Chandler’s spot as a similarly expensive and skilled SF is wasted on the Nuggets. The Denver Nuggets could add a perimeter defender to improve upon last year’s inefficiency against three-point shooters. They would also sacrifice very little, as Chandler is currently looking at a bench role behind Gallinari. Crowder and Johnson coming off the bench would mean a defensively sound second unit.
The only drawback might be less playing time for rookie PF Juan Hernangomez. This wouldn’t be a guarantee though, as the Nuggets would have many versatile players capable of playing multiple positions. This flexibility could come in handy, and each new player would also add free-throw reliability that Faried’s presence compromises.
Losing Gary Harris would likely be a considerable reason for the Nuggets NOT to do this trade. Trading him for the more explosive but less reliable Avery Bradley would be necessary for salary cap reasons. The Nuggets have invested a good amount in Harris, and are pleased with his growth. They are more likely to ride his potential than to trade him away.
Next: Brooklyn Nets