Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
Don’t make the mistake of underrating Jonas Valanciunas. He may not have Kyrie Irving’s natural talent, but he’s a really good NBA player.
For a long time, Valanciunas was a throwback big man. He’s not the most mobile player in the NBA, but he used his bruising strength to get baskets inside the paint at will. Now, he’s added a three-point shot to his arsenal to modernize his game.
That’ll be key for maximizing Ben Simmons. As of now, the Nets don’t have a viable stretch big in their rotation to compensate for his non-shooting. Valanciunas is the most important player they’re receiving here partly for that reason.
Meanwhile, Larry Nance Jr. is a solid, multipositional big/wing and Devonte’ Graham is a strong backup guard. Still, getting a first-round pick for Irving is almost the most important part of this deal for Brooklyn.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND RUMORS: New Orleans Pelicans Among Best Trade Destinations For Brooklyn Nets’ Kyrie Irving
Given his current trade value, that’s extremely significant. This may not be an ideal package for the Nets, but it might be the best they’ll get for Irving. If they’re insistent on trading him, it may have to do.
