14 Trades Involving Kenneth Faried and a Western Conference Team
By Tim Hart
Memphis Grizzlies
Trade Machine Results: Nuggets Unaffected, Grizzlies +1 Wins
The Trade Machine suggests that acquiring Faried would help the Grizzlies’ record. This result may surprise some, but even more surprising is the lack of effect for the Nuggets. This trade should help them out greatly.
Why the Grizzlies would do it:
Apparently, it would be a smart move. Faried could come off the bench, supplying his energy as a spark, capable of igniting at any moment. He might also fit into their starting rotation. The Grizzlies would have a lot of options as far as line-ups go.
Even though they would lose part of their backbone in Randolph, and defensive tenacity in Allen, the would still, apparently, be better off after this trade went down. They would have depth and unpredictability on their side.
Additionally, both players have just one year before their contracts expire. The Grizzlies will probably ride that out. However, giving them up now could give the team a better look. Also, it would open up a little breathing room in cap space.
Why the Nuggets would do it:
Zach Randolph would be an incredible mentor for Jokic, Nurkic, and Jernangomez. He has a well-rounded game that could mean a lot for the development of these young Nuggets. He also has plenty of on-court production left in him.
Randolph can spread the floor, and prefers to go to work from the elbow. This could open up the Nuggets’ offensive options. They’d get better looks. Moreover, they would have the rebounding, shot-blocking, and scoring abilities of Faried matched, if not improved upon. Randolph’s only issue is injury. At his age, injury is always a legitimate concern. If he could play 55 games or more, it would almost certainly help the Nuggets. This is should be doable for Randolph.
Tony Allen would also be a great addition. His tenacious defense at the guard position would be great for Mudiay, Murray, and Harris. Allen’s defensive effort could spread like wildfire, inspiring the young to up their game, and giving coach Malone tears of joy. Additionally, his presence at practice could also help their offensive games, as they would regularly be matched up against one of the best. He, like Randolph is perfectly capable of on-court production, and might even deserve a starting spot. The Nuggets would have options.
They Nuggets would probably be in better shape than the Trade Machine suggests.
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