In the NBA, first-round picks are like money. If you don’t have them, you need them. Of course, that’s a bit reductive. If you’re contending for the NBA title, you’ve got less of a need for draft capital. Otherwise, you’ve got to join the arms race.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are in the lead. This team has the most draft capital an NBA team has ever had at the same time. In fact, they may have too much to spend in recent years.
The Thunder need to consolidate assets. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers may be starting a rebuild this summer. If they do, they could use some draft capital. Are you thinking what we’re thinking?
The Trade Proposal
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F Davis Bertans, G/F Victor Oladipo, 2024 First-Round Pick (UTA via OKC), 2025 First-Round Pick (PHI via OKC)
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: G Anfernee Simons
Meanwhile, draft capital can be used in a number of different ways. That’s part of what makes it so valuable. These are versatile assets. First-round picks, in theory, are used to select players in the draft. Often, they’re used differently.
In fact, they’ve been the backbone of blockbuster trades in recent years. When an NBA star requests a trade, they’re usually looking for as much draft capital as they can get.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
That’s how the Thunder got here. They flipped Paul George for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a massive amount of draft capital. From that moment on, they’ve been collecting first-round picks like hotcakes. Is it time for them to finally move some?
Why The Oklahoma City Thunder Do The Deal
We think so. The Thunder cannot possibly use all of these picks. Imagine if they did. Suppose the Thunder used all of their draft capital. If they even had a modest hit rate on those selections, they would blow the salary cap out of the water.
So, it’s time for the Thunder to make some moves. The timing is perfect. This team looked poised to take a step forward last season.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Adding a guard with elite shooting would be a good start. That’s Simons. He’s an elite floor spacer who can create his own looks when need be. Should the Blazers part with such a player?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
The Blazers don’t need to move Simons – whether they’re rebuilding or not. Suppose they move Lillard. Presumably, the plan will be to build around Scoot Henderson. Simons is a perfect compliment to him, and he’s young enough to grow with him as well.
Only, he may impede Shaedon Sharpe’s path. That’s part of the reason for doing this deal. It’s not the only part. The Blazers need draft capital. They won’t be ready to start assembling a team around Henderson next year.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
They need to maximize their own lottery odds and have some assets to work with moving forward. With that in mind, it may be best to trade Simons. After all, we all know how valuable draft capital is.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
