Sacramento Kings Trade Thornton for Picks and Prospects
Rage Against the (Trade) Machine
Report out of the Sacramento Kings camp is that the front office is looking to make deals—particularly exchanging the veterans for younger prospects or future NBA draft picks. With a 4-7 win-loss card, the Kings are probably on their way to the lottery once again. So really, the move to acquire fresh blood is more amenable rather than sticking with the veterans and be stuck in mediocrity.
We’re doing the Kings management a favor and lining-up some possible trades before the deadline (As usual, via ESPN’s Trade Machine):
Trade #1: Sacramento Kings - Charlotte Bobcats
SG Marcus Thornton and PF/C Chuck Hayes for SG Ben Gordon and Charlotte’s 2014 first round draft pick (from Detroit)
Why Should the Kings Do It: No, they don’t get an immediate prospect here but they do get a first rounder in 2016 plus Ben Gordon’s expiring deal.
Why Should the Bobcats Do It: The Bobcats are in win-now mode and the addition of two serviceable veterans should add depth to both the wings and front court. Thornton can come off the bench and even start for the Cats while Hayes, whilst undersized can play both forward/center spots.
Trade #2: Sacramento Kings – Cleveland Cavaliers
SG Marcus Thornton and 2016 first round pick for SG Dion Waiters and SG Alonzo Gee
Why Should the Kings Do It: Waiters is a good prospect to pair with big man DeMarcus Cousins. Gee is a filler but will see time in Sacramento (especially if they trade veteran John Salmons in another deal).
Why Should the Cavs Do It: There is an apparent rift between Waiters and some members of the Cavaliers—nip it in the bud and start over. The 2016 pick looks attractive and Thornton gets the immediate start. They reboot their campaign in 2013-2014 with a veteran in the SG spot.