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NBA Trade Deadline: The trade each team must make

By Michael Dunlap

May 15, 2013; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Reggie Jackson (15) and center Kendrick Perkins (5) watch the game against the Memphis Grizzlies from the bench during the second half of game five of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Thunder 88-84. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
May 15, 2013; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Reggie Jackson (15) and center Kendrick Perkins (5) watch the game against the Memphis Grizzlies from the bench during the second half of game five of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Thunder 88-84. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 4, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Gerald Green (14) against the Toronto Raptors at US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Raptors 125-109. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Gerald Green (14) against the Toronto Raptors at US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Raptors 125-109. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Rip City Project (Portland Trail Blazers)

Portland sends Thomas Robinson to Phoenix for Gerald Green

Like many teams, the Portland Trail Blazers are not biting their fingernails as the trade deadline approaches, but there is always room to improve even the steadiest of rosters. If they make a move, it will be for a reserve wing. The backcourt youth movement of C.J. McCollum, Will Barton, and Allen Crabbe is coming along rather slowly—perhaps too slowly for a team with championship aspirations. A bargain bin veteran could provide the sort of depth Portland needs to make a run.

Unfortunately, they are not in the best position to strike a deal. Most teams that are willing to part with veterans are rebuilding, and most rebuilding teams want large, expiring contracts or an excess of draft picks. Outside of starters that are off the table, the Trail Blazers possess neither. In which case; Portland’s best bet is to seek out a team on the edge of success for a mutually beneficial arrangement.

For more Portland Trail Blazers, head over to RipCityProject.com!
For more Portland Trail Blazers, head over to RipCityProject.com! /

That team is the Phoenix Suns, and that arrangement involves Gerald Green. Even at 29 years old, Green is the definition of an offensive spark, averaging 13 points off the bench in 21 minutes per game this season. He is capable of playing both the shooting guard and small forward positions (Portland’s shallowest talent-wise) and has a relatively cheap ($3.5M) expiring contract that will not interfere with the Trail Blazers’ plans for 2015 free agency.

The Suns would, of course, require fair compensation. Thomas Robinson (also expiring) could shore up their thin frontline in a heartbeat. He is a phenomenal athlete, brimming with intensity, who presently lacks a role befitting his gifts because LaMarcus Aldridge absorbs most of Portland’s minutes at power forward. A saddening, but constructive, relocation would allow him to contribute valuably to the success of his new team.

Upon completing this transaction, the Trail Blazers gain an asset (Green) that suits their needs without sacrificing any long term players or long term plans.

Upon completing this trade, the Suns gain an asset (Robinson) that suits their needs while, simultaneously clearing space in their overcrowded backcourt.

Admittedly, Portland probably comes out on top in this one straight up, but reasonable terms can be negotiated if need be. Then again, Robinson is not to be underestimated, and this deal could be a steal for Phoenix if they use him well. Remember, the Trail Blazers are not desperate to make a trade, so there is no harm in just sniffing the air for favorable winds.

Next: Houston goes for Mr. October

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