In the modern NBA, positions are overrated. In today’s game, it’s all about skill sets. Positions used to be determined by size. Now, the game has changed. With that said, size can determine skillset, too.
Just look at Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat. He’s an undersized big man. In some ways, that can be an asset. Adebayo is one of the most switchable big men in the modern NBA.
With that said, sometimes, his lack of size can be an issue. Adebayo can struggle to guard the league’s giants more than he struggles to defend wings. The Heat may want to consider acquiring a true big to offset Adebayo’s lack of size. How about Jonas Valanciunas of the New Orleans Pelicans?
The Trade Proposal
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: G/F Duncan Robinson, 2027 First-Round Pick (Top-10 Protected – MIA)
Miami Heat Receive: C Jonas Valanciunas
In fact, Robinson is another example of the league’s move towards positionless basketball. In the old days, he would have likely played the 2. Robinson is a shooter, so, he plays shooting guard.
Today, Robinson can play the 3. In a pinch, he can play the 4. If Miami wants to put together lineups that maximize floor spacing, they’ll put Robinson anywhere. So, what is Robinson?
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Miami Heat & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
A shooter. That’s all that matters. Robinson’s shooting can give his team advantages at different positions on the floor in different situations. Should the Heat part with him?
Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal
It’s hard to remember now, but for a while, Robinson wasn’t playing any position for Miami on a regular basis. He was out of the rotation.
After all, Robinson is a weak defender. This is a pure shooting specialist who offers little else. In other words, Robinson is replaceable. Valaciunas is a little harder to find. His ability to space the floor at his size makes him a unique player. In fact, he’s broadly a more impactful player than Robinson.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Miami Heat & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
He’s also a good fit for this team. The Heat could play him next to Adebayo for spells in a jumbo lineup. Moreover, they could also have Valanciunas carry the second unit. Should the Pelicans part with such a useful player?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
Valanciunas may be useful. Apparently, the Pelicans may not want him anyway. It’s being rumored that the Pelicans want a more mobile option at the 5. Fair enough. As offensively talented as Valanciunas is, he can be a liability on the defensive end of the floor.
This deal doesn’t do anything to solve that issue. The Pelicans aren’t receiving a mobile big man here. That isn’t the point.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Miami Heat & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The point is to trade Valanciunas for a first-round pick. They can replace him later. If they don’t want to move forward with him, they might as well get value for him. They could use this pick to take a player at any position.
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