Denver Nuggets: The Wilson Chandler Trades Part II- The West
By Tim Hart
Oklahoma City Thunder
ESPN’s NBA Trade Machine Results: Thunder +3 Wins, Nuggets -1 Wins
Apparently, this mock-trade benefits the Thunder significantly more than the Nuggets. This may be true, but both teams would receive useful weapons.
Why the Thunder would do it:
With Adams and now Lauvergne too, the C spot seems pretty full for the Thunder. They could use an explosive PF though, and Faried might be a good fit. Faried has a history of doing well against the Thunder. Because of this, adding him to their squad may carry an extra bit of motivation.
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Swapping Singler for Chandler is probably the best part of this trade for OKC. In Durant’s absence, they don’t really have a starting SF, and Chandler could be exactly what they need. Giving up Oladipo would sacrifice some shooting ability for the size and rebounding ability of Will Barton, who would likely become their sixth-man behind Andre Roberson.
The Thunder would have a team better suited to ride the momentum of Russel Westbrook. Moreover, this mock-trade could help them recover from Durant’s departure, and contend for the Conference title once again.
Why the Nuggets would do it:
It would make Nikola Jokic into the floor-spreading PF that they crave. Kanter has consistently demolished Denver, and adding him to their squad would likely help their front-court toughen up. He also has pretty good range, and solid rebounding & shot blocking abilities. He would be a fantastic addition to any front-court.
Victor Oladipo could replace Barton as the Nuggets’ sixth-man, or take the starting SG spot. If he started, Harris would likely come off the bench with Jamal Murray. This might bring a smile to both young players’ faces. Kyle Singler would be a more appropriate fit for the Nuggets’ bench SF spot than Chandler, who deserves a starting role.
The Trade machine suggest a sight disadvantage coming from this trade. But when you consider the new rotation options that the Nuggets would face, success seems more likely.
Next: Phoenix Suns