BREAKING: Serge Ibaka traded to Magic

[Milbuck]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojVerticalNBA 45s45 seconds ago
Orlando will send Victor Oladipo, Ersan Ilyasova and rights to Sabonis to the Thunder, sources said.

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojVerticalNBA 2m2 minutes ago
Oklahoma City has traded Serge Ibaka to the Orlando Magic, league sources told @TheVertical.

[ArbitraryWater]

This is a mistake.. he always steps up in the playoffs and is good defensively. Shot blocker.

[bigkingsfan]

OKC just rape that deal, damn...

[LilEddyCurry]

Wow OKC...

[Milbuck]

OKC just rape that deal, damn...
Absolutely insane deal, Oladipo AND a really solid pick for an aging Ibaka...crazy

[EricGordon23]

Magic gonna magic. horrible trade for them

[ArbitraryWater]

Oh shit, they get Oladipo?! Wow

[r0drig0lac]

:eek:

[LilEddyCurry]

Funny how The Thunder kept Ibaka over Harden.. Retrospectively speaking this trade is bad..

[NBAGOAT]

god damn woj bomb. Seems cold to trade Ibaka after how he played in the playoffs but the return is good.

[imdaman99]

For Sabonis??? Sabonis is gonna be a stud. Him next to Adams wow

[LakersDaBEst]

Orlando where developing stars then trading them happens

Shaq, Dwight, :lol

Good job Magic and Shoutout to Jameer

[EricGordon23]

durant is staying

[ArbitraryWater]

What kind of trade is this?!?!?! This shit is lopsided as hell wtf

[Bobcats2013]

westbrook + oladipo :eek: :bowdown:

[k0kakw0rld]

Thats a steal :eek:

[Im Still Ballin]

O-Meh-dipo and Huh-sahn-ilysova

[90sgoat]

Holy sh

[imdaman99]

Wow they get Oladipo too??? :lebronamazed:

[$LakerGold]

Jam, hold this L. Where the f is the Magic going with this trade? Serge Ibiocre.

[Smook A.]

Such a shitty trade for Orlando. Why the **** would you trade Oladipo?

As for the Thunder, they just got away with murder.

[bigkingsfan]

This might be most lopsided trade ever, not counting when stars demand trades.

[ArbitraryWater]

I was about to say, Ibaka is a good player who steps up in the playoffs and can be a great defensive presence.... but they get Sabonis for him (good upside), AND Oladipo... oh, and if the Magic feel like that wasnt enough and you still throw someone in there, take Ilyasova as well!

Wtf :oldlol:

[Im Still Ballin]

People underrating the Congo sensation

His absence will be felt

[90sgoat]

OKC shit all over Hinkie!

What a steal, I am no fan of Oladipo but he has talent and Ersan is underrated, decent forward with range and Sabonis is probably going to turn out at least a good starter.

Basically got rid of Ibaka's 34 year old ass and replenished with young stars for the next 10 years.

[imdaman99]

How old is Ibaka? He looked on his athletic decline already

That being said, he was usually key to beating the Spurs and the lineup when he played center against the Warriors death lineup did well.

[ScalsFan21]

Maybe the Oladipo trade is because of something with Westbrook we don't know about?

I really doubt it. I can't imagine them turning that package down in just about any circumstances. Doesn't necessarily fix the spacing issue in their starting unit (in fact it arguably damages it), but Ersan could be a factor there for sure where needed.

Ibaka probably deserves a higher usage rate offensively but damn.. big trade.

[90sgoat]

People underrating the Congo sensation

His absence will be felt

It will be sure, but Ibaka is like 5-8 years older than advertised and will decline soon.

[inclinerator]

sir chewbaca

[Bobcats2013]

orlando war room:
http://67.media.tumblr.com/f2acf58d89e1e1d47bc2269c3a307832/tumblr_ngl25nk4ST1s16v2eo1_400.gif

"we got the next Shaq"

[Smook A.]

People underrating the Congo sensation

His absence will be felt
With what the Thunder got in return, they won't be missing Ibaka one bit. Seriously.

[NBAGOAT]

OKC shit all over Hinkie!

What a steal, I am no fan of Oladipo but he has talent and Ersan is underrated, decent forward with range and Sabonis is probably going to turn out at least a good starter.

Basically got rid of Ibaka's 34 year old ass and replenished with young stars for the next 10 years.

hinkie was the gm of the sixers :facepalm what does he have to do with this.

[ScalsFan21]

How old is Ibaka? He looked on his athletic decline already

That being said, he was usually key to beating the Spurs and the lineup when he played center against the Warriors death lineup did well.

26, next season will be his age 27 year.

[oh the horror]

Wow they get Oladipo too??? :lebronamazed:



SERIOUSLY?


Orlando wtf are you doing? I don't believe that

[TiagoSimoes]

:roll: :roll: thanks Magic.

Oladipo + Westbrook? this for real? no more roberson horrible shooting in the starting lineup and an extra playmaker? :applause:

Shame we lose ibaka's weak side help and 3 pt shooting, but ersan offers shooting and oladipo aint a bad shooter. and we still get a solid prospect.

Just need to work the defense around, but i feel KD could have a big role in that, more time at 4.

Thanks based Presti, now u just need to make KD sign that paper

[90sgoat]

I really doubt it. I can't imagine them turning that package down in just about any circumstances. Doesn't necessarily fix the spacing issue in their starting unit (in fact it arguably damages it), but Ersan could be a factor there for sure where needed.

Ibaka probably deserves a higher usage rate offensively but damn.. big trade.

I don't see Oladipo being the right piece though and doubt he will start, he is a lesser Westbrook. I don't have much opinion of Ilyasovas defense, seems better than Kanter and ok rebounder, but they're going to downgrade on D.

[KG215]

This is a mistake.. he always steps up in the playoffs and is good defensively. Shot blocker.
He's horribly overrated as a defender and his rim-protecting/shot-blocking has fallen off drastically the last couple of year, as has his game overall.

[Milbuck]

OKC is winning the championship next year.

[90sgoat]

hinkie was the gm of the sixers :facepalm what does he have to do with this.

Hinkie would have traded Ibaka for a 2019 pick and a D-leaguer.

Look at how OKC makes moves without tanking.

[Im Still Ballin]

Yo, the defense will miss the Congo Sensation.

[Hulk]

Ibaka is like 36 years old.

[ScalsFan21]

I don't see Oladipo being the right piece though and doubt he will start, he is a lesser Westbrook. I don't have much opinion of Ilyasovas defense, seems better than Kanter and ok rebounder, but they're going to downgrade on D.

It's interesting... I mean, if he had a shot he would literally be perfect but yeah his game feels a bit redundant in that group fit-wise. I think they can compensate defensively with Adams, Roberson and I guess KD, but Ersan is definitely a flat-footed defender... meh. I don't think it catapults them into GSW/CLE territory but I think it's a lot of upside to pass up to hold onto a somewhat overrated defender.

[oh the horror]

Ibaka is like 36 years old.



He's defiantly looked like it at times.


This trade was won by OKC

[34-24 Footwork]

Magic :lol :lol

OKC :applause: :applause:


Guess the Magic REALLY don't give a **** anymore.

[DMAVS41]

LOL...what the **** do the Magic need with Ibaka?

I don't really love Oladipo, but he does give them that perimeter defense/playmaking...along with okay shooting (probably better than we realize with space)

And Illyasova could flourish there.

Don't absolutely love it for the Thunder, but it's awful for the Magic. Just makes no sense.

Contending teams make a trade like that for Serge...and he's expiring at the end of the year...:facepalm

[Im Still Ballin]

This trade was won by LeBron James, because he is going to win again next year.

[PJR]

Durant is 200% gone

[ArbitraryWater]

orlando war room:
http://67.media.tumblr.com/f2acf58d89e1e1d47bc2269c3a307832/tumblr_ngl25nk4ST1s16v2eo1_400.gif

"we got the next Shaq"


:roll: :roll: :roll:

[ArbitraryWater]

He's horribly overrated as a defender and his rim-protecting/shot-blocking has fallen off drastically the last couple of year, as has his game overall.

that was when I didnt know what theyd get in return yet :lol

Ibaka is still a good player and youre underrating him (alot are), but this is one of the more lopsided trades of this century.

[noob cake]

I wouldn't trade Oladipo for Ibaka straight up. Orlando is not winning anything anytime soon so they don't really need Ibaka. Ibaka's real age is around 30 and is going to sign a supermax at 32m/year.

HORRIBLE TRADE

[HylianNightmare]

That's ****ing stupid

[DMAVS41]

Durant is 200% gone

This would not make him gone. If anything...the Thunder got better. And now have the ability to do some creative things in free agency.

He was either gone already...or he approved this deal.

There is no way the Thunder would make this move without taking it to Durant first...unless he already told them he's gone.

But...this likely makes the Thunder a little better next year actually. Perhaps notably better if some things pan out.

Again...Durant needs to be playing the 4 way more often. Maybe he and the Thunder have finally realized and agreed on this. That alone will make them an overall better and more dangerous team in the playoffs.

[chazzy]

Wow lmao

[KingPush]

Sabonis is going to be better than Ibaka. And then they throw in Oladipo too :roll:

[SilkkTheShocker]

This trade was won by LeBron James, because he is going to win again next year.

LOL this

[TiagoSimoes]

:roll: :roll: :roll: ORL also lost tobias harris and got jennings. da fk are these guys on?

[IGOTGAME]

LOL...what the **** do the Magic need with Ibaka?

I don't really love Oladipo, but he does give them that perimeter defense/playmaking...along with okay shooting (probably better than we realize with space)

And Illyasova could flourish there.

Don't absolutely love it for the Thunder, but it's awful for the Magic. Just makes no sense.

Contending teams make a trade like that for Serge...and he's expiring at the end of the year...:facepalm

I like this for the Thunder. Illyasova will flourish next to KD and Westbrook, this guy hunts shots and is a gamer. Plus Oladipo and a prospect in Sabonis...good trade

[konex]

god damn woj bomb. Seems cold to trade Ibaka after how he played in the playoffs but the return is good.

Dude coasted thru the last 2 seasons. This was the best time to trade him with Adams taking over as the best big. Great deal

[Nick Young]

This is a mistake.. he always steps up in the playoffs and is good defensively. Shot blocker.
Dude, they are replacing him with the second coming of Sabonis.


Sabonis/Adams/Kanter

+Durant and Westbrook


Game over NBA.

Ilyasova is a solid role player and a great shooter too.

[SilkkTheShocker]

Kings to give Dion Waiters the max

[DMAVS41]

****ing stupid franchises man...they just don't ****ing get it.

Lets trade 2 real assets 23 and under...for a guy that only helps us if we are a contender (we aren't)...and oh by the way...he's a free agent next summer when the cap is going up to 110 million.

****ing morons.

[SilkkTheShocker]

Good trade for Hicktown. Almost makes up for them trading a future HOFer for Jeremy Lamb.

[raprap]

Sabonis + Adams front court :eek: :eek: :eek:

[CuterThanRubio]

OKC is one of the most reactionary franchises I've ever seen

Nothing but panic moves!

Trade Harden after making the finals, now this, I'm glad, KD deserves better


Bring back the Sonics!

Fvck OKC!

[bdreason]

I like the trade for both teams.

OKC just couldn't justify paying Kanter the max to come off the bench. Dipo and Westbrook backcourt is going to terrorize teams in the open court.

[KCO]

Good deal for the Thunder but awful for the Magic. What on earth are the Magic planning to do with Ibaka, Gordon and Vucevic.

[Milbuck]

This is such a dumbass trade by Orlando. Just blows my mind they would trade a really damn promising young player and a very good pick for a 30 something year old overrated Ibaka just to scrape together maybe 2-3 extra wins next year. And even that is debatable considering Oladipo is arguably better than Ibaka NOW. The future isn't even close...AND you add Sabonis? Christ.

Dumbass f*cking trade. They're so lucky Mario and AG are studs.

[TiagoSimoes]

OKC is one of the most reactionary franchises I've ever seen

Nothing but panic moves!

Trade Harden after making the finals, now this, I'm glad, KD deserves better


Bring back the Sonics!

Fvck OKC!

OKC won this trade, and ur salty as hell.

Ibaka was borderline useless during most of the season. And oladipo fills a big hole in SG. Plus ersan and a solid prospect? lel

[jchu]

so this means Durant to GSW?

edit: nvm. bad trade for Orlando LOL

[ArbitraryWater]

Dude, they are replacing him with the second coming of Sabonis.


Sabonis/Adams/Kanter

+Durant and Westbrook


Game over NBA.

Ilyasova is a solid role player and a great shooter too.

No shit. Its one of the most lopsided trades ever. Merged threads.

[90sgoat]

Might mean Orlando is going to make Vucevic their main guy, will be interesting.

[Bosnian Sajo]

"Aaron Gordon is the next Blake!!"





Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight :oldlol:

[Proctor]

Saw the Thunder somehow nabbed Sabonis and almost had a heart attack, then I come on here and see they got Oladipo and Ilyasova too. WTF. :roll:

Spurs are happy about this though, Ibaka in the Thunder lineup was just too much athleticism.

[Ben Simmons]

Ibaka was good in the playoffs though

[bdreason]

oh I didn't realize the Magic gave up Sabonis too. :facepalm

I imagine the Thunder would have done Ibaka for Dipo + filler straight up.

[LikeABosh]

Why in the **** did Orlando do this?

[ScalsFan21]

Can't help wondering if ORL has something lined up to ship out Vuc for guard help, though obviously I would think if that's the case it would be a three-way deal.

This one is very tough to justify on the Magic's side, for sure... :confusedshrug:

[CuterThanRubio]

OKC won this trade, and ur salty as hell.

Ibaka was borderline useless during most of the season. And oladipo fills a big hole in SG. Plus ersan and a solid prospect? lel

I'm not salty at all, I'm happier than most OKC fans right now, Ibaka was not useless in the playoffs when it counted, he was dropping threes and stretching the floor, I gained a lot of respect for his game after this season.

Oladipo is garbage until proven otherwise, Ibaka is a proven asset who can bolster a championship caliber starting lineup

OKC isn't making deep runs into the postseason for a while!

Cry some more!

OKC is managed by idiots!

[PejaNowitzki]

Presti just bent over the Magic and whispered "who's your daddy" in their ear ever so softly. Trading a declining Ibaka for a guy who could replace most of his production in Sabonis plus Oladipo and Ilyasova, this is the move that could push OKC over the top while I don't see Orlando really getting much better.

[Orlando Magic]

The deal will be solely judged on how Sabonis turns out, not Turnoverdepot.

Plus, usually when everyone on this board reacts so strongly in one direction, the team that got roasted verbally ends up winning the trade.

[NuggetsFan]

I just don't get why Orlando does this. Makes no sense. Even if you don't think it was way too much for Ibaka.

[TiagoSimoes]

I'm not salty at all, I'm happier than most OKC fans right now, Ibaka was not useless in the playoffs when it counted, he was dropping threes and stretching the floor, I gained a lot of respect for his game after this season.

Oladipo is garbage until proven otherwise, Ibaka is a proven asset who can bolster a championship caliber starting lineup

OKC isn't making deep runs into the postseason for a while!

Cry some more!

OKC is managed by idiots!

OKC been making WCF for years now, and was 1 win away from the finals. Ibaka was the 4/5th most impactful player at best, and his role has been reduced, and his production aswell. OKC just added 2 very useful players and a solid prospect.

Oladipo garbage? just this season he dropped 45 pts, 16 ppg career scorer, a SG who can defend and playmake? thats exactly what OKC needed, and the guy is still 24. Ibaka absence can be covered by Adams/KD/Kanter/McGary/Sabonis and who knows, an addiction in FA.

[SaltyMeatballs]

Orlando's GM before the trade:

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m3twovwq9e1r7amvbo1_500.gif

[D-Wait]

:facepalm

[Prime_Shaq]

This is why I never admit I'm a Magic fan.

[sammichoffate]

This is why I never admit I'm a Magic fan.:lebronamazed:

[Embers]

This is how the deal went down

Orlando - "Sam, we want Serge and we are willing to go above and beyond to get our man. We will give you Victor Oladipo"
OKC - "We'll take"
Orlando "and Ersan Ilyasova and pick 11 in this years draft"
OKC - " https://d15mj6e6qmt1na.cloudfront.net/files/images/0051/9265/noyphh_1_.jpg"

[ScalsFan21]

I don't want to say this is on par with some of Billy King's greatest hits such as Gerald Wallace for what became 6th overall (that's why POR has Damian) or the gutting the next century for Pierce and KG in the middle of LeBron's prime, but damn... it's one of the biggest head-scratchers in recent memory. :biggums:

[CuterThanRubio]

OKC been making WCF for years now, and was 1 win away from the finals. Ibaka was the 4/5th most impactful player at best, and his role has been reduced, and his production aswell. OKC just added 2 very useful players and a solid prospect.

Oladipo garbage? just this season he dropped 45 pts, 16 ppg career scorer, a SG who can defend and playmake? thats exactly what OKC needed, and the guy is still 24. Ibaka absence can be covered by Adams/KD/Kanter/McGary/Sabonis and who knows, an addiction in FA.

Oladipo was riding the bench at a certain point last year, he isn't going to make a difference, Ibaka is more valuable than him even in a reduced role.

Ibaka played an instrumental part in those WCF and finals appearances, you can't replace his impact with random scrubs.

Sabonis could turn out but I doubt he produces immediately.

[Spurs5Rings2014]

Saw the Thunder somehow nabbed Sabonis and almost had a heart attack, then I come on here and see they got Oladipo and Ilyasova too. WTF. :roll:

Spurs are happy about this though, Ibaka in the Thunder lineup was just too much athleticism.

:cheers:

I think people are overreacting here and undervaluing Ibaka. I feel like he's a franchise guy that was being held back by two selfish "superstars." I expect great things from Ibaka in Orlando - Harden-esque transformation into a superstar. OKC will be worse next season and will be a second round exit at best. If Durant isn't gone this season, he'll be next. This is a build for the future move, not a win now move.

[90sgoat]

Sabonis is going to be a star, I really don't see him failing, he is listed as a power forward but looks center height when playing. Has a smooth post game, can hit the outside shot, passes well. Only ifs is that he looks quite small shouldered, but so did Porzingis.

Sabonis if healthy is going to be easily serviceable from rookie season.

[TiagoSimoes]

Oladipo was riding the bench at a certain point last year, he isn't going to make a difference, Ibaka is more valuable than him even in a reduced role.

Ibaka played an instrumental part in those WCF and finals appearances, you can't replace his impact with random scrubs.

Sabonis could turn out but I doubt he produces immediately.

ill wait for your posts during the season

[ArbitraryWater]

:cheers:

I think people are overreacting here and undervaluing Ibaka. I feel like he's a franchise guy that was being held back by two selfish "superstars." I expect great things from Ibaka in Orlando - Harden-esque transformation into a superstar. OKC will be worse next season and will be a second round exit at best. If Durant isn't gone this season, he'll be next. This is a build for the future move, not a win now move.

nighah please

[NBAGOAT]

This is why I never admit I'm a Magic fan.

:(

[CuterThanRubio]

ill wait for your posts during the season

You won't be able to miss them!

:rockon:

[TiagoSimoes]

:cheers:

I think people are overreacting here and undervaluing Ibaka. I feel like he's a franchise guy that was being held back by two selfish "superstars." I expect great things from Ibaka in Orlando - Harden-esque transformation into a superstar. OKC will be worse next season and will be a second round exit at best. If Durant isn't gone this season, he'll be next. This is a build for the future move, not a win now move.

Ibaka's defence and rebounding been declining for 2 years straight, and even his 3 pt shooting/mid range declined a bit from 2014. He is a black hole on offence(cant and wont pass for shit). Dunno where u get the idea of him being a star. i Believe he will have a good statistical year padding his stats on a bad team, and simply not impacting that much.

Also forgot to mention, Ibaka has 1 more year in his contract, and OKC wouldnt pay what he will want, especially with adams on the team and possibly waiters

[KG215]

I like the trade for both teams.

OKC just couldn't justify paying Kanter the max to come off the bench. Dipo and Westbrook backcourt is going to terrorize teams in the open court.
OKC may still end up trying to trade Kanter at some point. That's not out of the question and there have been some pondering about that possibility by some of the Thunder media guys.

One reason Ibaka was traded is because OKC couldn't really afford all of KD, Rus, Ibaka, and Adams. Adams didn't just show he was OKC's third best player in the playoffs, that was something he showed over the course of the entire season. He surprassed Ibaka this year and it became quite clear he was going to be OKC's third building block going forward, not Ibaka.

Ibaka had also plateaued the 2-3 years and his value wasn't going to get any higher. He was still being viewed as an intimidating rim-protector based almost as much off of reputation as his actual pay.


I still think OKC makes another trade involving Kanter this summer. The pieces we got from Orlando aren't a perfect fit but they're good pieces. Hopefully we let Waiters walk, too, because Oladipo makes him redundant and Oladipo is better.

[Spurs5Rings2014]

Ibaka's defence and rebounding been declining for 2 years straight, and even his 3 pt shooting/mid range declined a bit from 2014. He is a black hole on offence(cant and wont pass for shit). Dunno where u get the idea of him being a star. i Believe he will have a good statistical year padding his stats on a bad team, and simply not impacting that much.

Also forgot to mention, Ibaka has 1 more year in his contract, and OKC wouldnt pay what he will want, especially with adams on the team and possibly waiters

Ibaka was HUGE in the post season for y'all. Shot 50% from 3-point land, if anything he should of been getting the ball MORE, not less. He was also dominating on the defensive end when they ran that small ball line up with him at the 5. This is a horrendous trade and you will pay for it. Westbrook and Dipo are redundant and can't play together while Sabonis is a non-NBA talent just like his old man and belongs in Euroleague. Durant is gone and Westbrook will follow. This is a clear cut sign that OKC is blowing it up. Enjoy the lottery for the next decade.

:oldlol: :cheers:

[DMAVS41]

OKC may still end up trying to trade Kanter at some point. That's not out of the question and there have been some pondering about that possibility by some of the Thunder media guys.

One reason Ibaka was traded is because OKC couldn't really afford all of KD, Rus, Ibaka, and Adams. Adams didn't just show he was OKC's third best player in the playoffs, that was something he showed over the course of the entire season. He surprassed Ibaka this year and it became quite clear he was going to be OKC's third building block going forward, not Ibaka.

Ibaka had also plateaued the 2-3 years and his value wasn't going to get any higher. He was still being viewed as an intimidating rim-protector based almost as much off of reputation as his actual pay.


I still think OKC makes another trade involving Kanter this summer. The pieces we got from Orlando aren't a perfect fit but they're good pieces. Hopefully we let Waiters walk, too, because Oladipo makes him redundant and Oladipo is better.

Bingo.

Kanter helped his trade value with his playoff play this year imo. And his contract is going to look a lot better in a month. Not sure there will be much of a market, but if need be...i bet something will happen. Because the cap is going up another 16 million next summer to make his deal even better.

So that contract is just not scary at all if you like Kanter...and someone will like him.

I think this opens up some interesting trade chances and dump opportunities to get involved in something real during free agency.

I don't love the fit of Dipo because I'm not sure how good of a catch and shoot shooter he is, but he's a huge upgrade from what they are normally used to in terms of all around game a that position.

Illyasova could surprise people as well.

And I like the prospect..definitely got well over EV for an expiring Ibaka...anyone saying otherwise doesn't get it.

And Orlando? Words can't describe just how short sighted and idiotic a move is like this...god I hope Ibaka refuses talks to stay/extend. Would be hilarious and fitting.

[Gilles Simon]

:biggums:

How the hell did we pull that off? Nice. :pimp:

[Detroit]

http://www.brooklynpaper.com/assets/photos/32/18/32_18_fleecefest3_z.jpg

[Achilleas]

what do you think about this trade
kanter with anderson
okc get a shooter ,oladipo and westbrook aren't the best shooters and adams will cover him in defence

pelicans
get a low post scorer now that davis starts scoring from outside,and he will cover him in defence

[TiagoSimoes]

Ibaka was HUGE in the post season for y'all. Shot 50% from 3-point land, if anything he should of been getting the ball MORE, not less. He was also dominating on the defensive end when they ran that small ball line up with him at the 5. This is a horrendous trade and you will pay for it. Westbrook and Dipo are redundant and can't play together while Sabonis is a non-NBA talent just like his old man and belongs in Euroleague. Durant is gone and Westbrook will follow. This is a clear cut sign that OKC is blowing it up. Enjoy the lottery for the next decade.

:oldlol: :cheers:

you just man yourself look like and idiot and literally any opinion you have about basketball means nothing. But i should have just tried to remember the shit posting you been doing since uve been around and not replied to you

[stoks]

Ibaka was HUGE in the post season for y'all. Shot 50% from 3-point land, if anything he should of been getting the ball MORE, not less. He was also dominating on the defensive end when they ran that small ball line up with him at the 5. This is a horrendous trade and you will pay for it. Westbrook and Dipo are redundant and can't play together while Sabonis is a non-NBA talent just like his old man and belongs in Euroleague. Durant is gone and Westbrook will follow. This is a clear cut sign that OKC is blowing it up. Enjoy the lottery for the next decade.

:oldlol: :cheers:

Seriously, you're too dam* stupid to be a Spurs fan. Stop making yourself look like an idiot...and choose to root for an organization like the Sixers. You're obviously a better fit with Philly from an IQ standpoint.

[Sarcastic]

Does this mean Durant is gone?

[Spurs5Rings2014]

Thunder fans mad as hell that I'm right, but this thread WILL be bumped in good time.

Bookmarked.

:pimp:

[stoks]

Thunder fans mad as hell that I'm right, but this thread WILL be bumped in good time.

Bookmarked.

:pimp:

Great...bookmark the sh*t out of it. Then get yourself over to the Sixers website and pick yourself up a jersey. You belong there.

[TiagoSimoes]

Thunder fans mad as hell that I'm right, but this thread WILL be bumped in good time.

Bookmarked.

:pimp:

you should be worried about your team getting kicked out of the playoffs by OKC, not about bumping threads

[Thunderfan86]

I'm LOL'ing at people saying Ibaka is 30 something years old. That shit is hilarious.......Them african nikkas be old as fvck :roll: :roll: :roll:

[josh99]

That's it I'm done, I'm sick of this team self destructing.

[Meticode]

As of right now, horrible trade for the Magic. I thought they were going to develop Aaron Gordon?

[coin24]

Standard magic :lol :lol
No clue what they're doing

How can anyone not agree ibaka is over 30? Are you blind, look at his decline

[bigkingsfan]

That's it I'm done, I'm sick of this team self destructing.
Kings passing the torch. :banana:

[Spurs5Rings2014]

you should be worried about your team getting kicked out of the playoffs by OKC, not about bumping threads

We'll sweep you if we meet in the play offs again. Ibaka was the only thing giving you the slight edge even with the refs in your pocket.

:oldlol:

[Dr. Cheesesteak]

As of right now, horrible trade for the Magic. I thought they were going to develop Aaron Gordon?
can't they still?

I mean, I agree, bad trade for Magics. But Ibaka and Gordon can co-exist on the floor if Ibaka plays C in the small line ups, or Gordon play SF in regular line-ups?

[Meticode]

can't they still?

I mean, I agree, bad trade for Magics. But Ibaka and Gordon can co-exist on the floor if Ibaka plays C in the small line ups, or Gordon play SF in regular line-ups?
I don't see Gordon going to small forward. It just hinders the development of Gordon if they're going to put Ibaka in there. You can't put Ibaka at center when Vuvecic is the starting center and a very decent one at 1/10.

[stoks]

We'll sweep you if we meet in the play offs again. Ibaka was the only thing giving you the slight edge even with the refs in your pocket.

:oldlol:

Seriously, you need a lobotomy.

[imdaman99]

We'll sweep you if we meet in the play offs again. Ibaka was the only thing giving you the slight edge even with the refs in your pocket.

:oldlol:
OKC dominated the Spurs with Ibaka on the bench. It was Adams and Kanter in the same lineup killing the Spurs this playoffs :oldlol:

[Spurs5Rings2014]

OKC dominated the Spurs with Ibaka on the bench. It was Adams and Kanter in the same lineup killing the Spurs this playoffs :oldlol:

Dominated is a strong word for winning in 6 with 2 games coming down to the refs rigging it for OKC.

:lol

And Ibaka was HUGE for the Warriors series. That Kanter/Adams line-up didn't really work against them. Thunder are toast.

[Dr. Cheesesteak]

I don't see Gordon going to small forward. It just hinders the development of Gordon if they're going to put Ibaka in there. You can't put Ibaka at center when Vuvecic is the starting center and a very decent one at 1/10.
Well, that's why I said in small line-ups, when Vuce is resting or for match up purposes.

Gordon can(/should) still get 25+ mins a game, no? I mean, Vuce, Ibaka, Nicholson, Dedmond... There's plenty of room there for Gordon to play.

[Prime_Shaq]

what do you think about this trade
kanter with anderson
okc get a shooter ,oladipo and westbrook aren't the best shooters and adams will cover him in defence

pelicans
get a low post scorer now that davis starts scoring from outside,and he will cover him in defence
I think OKC could get more for Kanter. Kanter was severely underrated this season and was probably in the running for 6th man of the year. Let's not forget the Kanter-Adams lineup that devastated the fk outta Spurs.

[TiagoSimoes]

We'll sweep you if we meet in the play offs again. Ibaka was the only thing giving you the slight edge even with the refs in your pocket.

:oldlol:

It was adams and kanter raping the spurs you idiot

you also said that the spurs were winning in 4 or 5 if i remember. look what happened.

Like i said early, your opinions literally mean zero

[Spurs5Rings2014]

It was adams and kanter raping the spurs you idiot

you also said that the spurs were winning in 4 or 5 if i remember. look what happened.

Like i said early, your opinions literally mean zero

We would of won in 5 easily if not for that rigged Game 2 obvious offensive foul on Waiters where you won by a whopping 1 point. We would of been up 2-0 and then won Game 4 per usual and been up 3-1. Then refs actually call that obvious foul on Leonard in Game 5 instead of ignoring it for an easy lay up and we ice that one. Boom, we win in 5. Obviously refs/Silver can dictate a series, just look at the finals and the Draymond suspension/Curry getting into early foul trouble off ticky tack fouls every game.

:confusedshrug:

[TiagoSimoes]

We would of won in 5 easily if not for that rigged Game 2 obvious offensive foul on Waiters where you won by a whopping 1 point. We would of been up 2-0 and then won Game 4 per usual and been up 3-1. Then refs actually call that obvious foul on Leonard in Game 5 instead of ignoring it for an easy lay up and we ice that one. Boom, we win in 5. Obviously refs/Silver can dictate a series, just look at the finals and the Draymond suspension/Curry getting into early foul trouble off ticky tack fouls every game.

:confusedshrug:

bla bla bla you lost and you were wrong once again. OKC > Spurs

[QuebecBaller]

That's it I'm done, I'm sick of this team self destructing.

And they'll probably do a sign-n-trade Howard for Vucevic :lol

[Draz]

Lol Orlando

[Fudge]

OMG :bowdown:

Based Presti does it again. I would've been okay with the 11th pick and Ilyasova, tbh. :lol AND we get Victor Oladipo.

Holy shit. What a time.

[Dr. Cheesesteak]

I liked what Orlando was doing the past few years w/ the moves made for Jacques Vaughn. I liked the Skiles hire, but didn't like the Tobias Harris trade.

Now I love the Vogel hire, but am not a fan of this trade at all.

However...

Their roster still looks solid. And if Vogel can coach these guys up, they can make some noise in the regular season, possibly FINALLY make the playoffs?

Vucevic
Ibaka
Super Mario
Fournier
E Payton
-------
Zimmerman
Dedmon?
Nicholson?
A Gordon
Layman
Napier

That's a tight rotation that could use depth obviously. But besides that, looks pretty good under Vogel. He's done much better w/ worse...

[DingDengDong]

Crazy trade. I love it for OKC.

[Fudge]

We would of won in 5 easily if not for that rigged Game 2 obvious offensive foul on Waiters where you won by a whopping 1 point. We would of been up 2-0 and then won Game 4 per usual and been up 3-1. Then refs actually call that obvious foul on Leonard in Game 5 instead of ignoring it for an easy lay up and we ice that one. Boom, we win in 5. Obviously refs/Silver can dictate a series, just look at the finals and the Draymond suspension/Curry getting into early foul trouble off ticky tack fouls every game.

:confusedshrug:
Meltdown. :oldlol:

[RoundMoundOfReb]

OMG :bowdown:

Based Presti does it again. I would've been okay with the 11th pick and Ilyasova, tbh. :lol AND we get Victor Oladipo.

Holy shit. What a time.
LeBron/Durant Family wins again :oldlol:

[Dray n Klay]

The Fudge Family wins again!


:djparty :hammertime: :banana:

[G-train]

We would of won in 5 easily if not for that rigged Game 2 obvious offensive foul on Waiters where you won by a whopping 1 point. We would of been up 2-0 and then won Game 4 per usual and been up 3-1. Then refs actually call that obvious foul on Leonard in Game 5 instead of ignoring it for an easy lay up and we ice that one. Boom, we win in 5. Obviously refs/Silver can dictate a series, just look at the finals and the Draymond suspension/Curry getting into early foul trouble off ticky tack fouls every game.

:confusedshrug:

You mean in Game 2 where Manu committed a violation first, WB was fouled off the ball, then you got the ball anyway, and muffed a 3 on 2 break.

[HylianNightmare]

That's it I'm done, I'm sick of this team self destructing.
:(

[Fudge]

LeBron/Durant Family wins again :oldlol:

The Fudge Family wins again!


:djparty :hammertime: :banana:
:dancin :pimp:

[KiiiiNG]

One of the greatest trades of all time. Honestly, Illysova is an upgrade over Ibaka at this point... dead serious. Oladipo is a future superstar and another Westbrook-like athlete.... plus they get Sabonis a young terrorizer with huge upside. :yaohappy:

They got instantly better, younger, and deeper. :yaohappy:

Holy shit. :yaohappy: :yaohappy: :yaohappy:

[Dray n Klay]

One of the greatest trades of all time. Honestly, Illysova is an upgrade over Ibaka at this point... dead serious. Oladipo is a future superstar and another Westbrook-like athlete.... plus they get Sabonis a young terrorizer with huge upside. :yaohappy:

They got instantly better, younger, and deeper. :yaohappy:

Holy shit. :yaohappy: :yaohappy:


WE WIN

:hammertime: :yaohappy:

[PejaNowitzki]

while Sabonis is a non-NBA talent just like his old man and belongs in Euroleague. :

:biggums: :biggums:





























:biggums:

[Sakkreth]

Sabonis on Thunder, what an outcome!

:applause:

[Mr Feeny]

This is why I never admit I'm a Magic fan.

Is nobody focusing on this:oldlol:

[Jameerthefear]

That's it I'm done, I'm sick of this team self destructing.
Yeah k think I'm done now too until Rob is fired for this.

[Prime_Shaq]

OMG :bowdown:

Based Presti does it again. I would've been okay with the 11th pick and Ilyasova, tbh. :lol AND we get Victor Oladipo.

Holy shit. What a time.
What a fking time. Fk u Magic.

[Graviton]

Finally won't be seeing Ibaka's stone hands in action. Kanter and Adams can take care of the paint and they actually finish inside and have couple moves. With Westbrook and Oladipo constantly attacking and Durant on the perimeter, their offense will finally be consistent. No more black hole at SG. They get instantly better. Even if the defense suffers a little, Adams and Kanter are still monster rebounders on offensive glass, players will be collapsing on Russ and Dipo every time. Then you have Durant to worry about. Scary team.

Get ready to see some crazy dunks on the fastbreak, Russ gonna be throwing alley oops to Durant, Dipo and Adams. :bowdown:

[brownmamba00]

Lol what was the magic gm sniffin on when he accepted this deal

Is KD staying tho

[Sakkreth]

Thunder just improved the team AND made it younger :lol

[BigTicket]

I don't get this deal at all, seems like OKC completely robbed Orlando. Why ?

[Sakkreth]

This makes 0 fcking sense for Orlando.

[Prime_Shaq]

I don't get this deal at all, seems like OKC completely robbed Orlando. Why ?
Because Rob is a fking idiot

[Jameerthefear]

Because Rob is a fking idiot
I've been a Magic fan for 13 years. That's over until Rob is fired.

[NumberSix]

Damn. That means KD is leaving. Their dumping their assets to enter rebuilding mode.

[Bosnian Sajo]

Damn. That means KD is leaving. Their dumping their assets to enter rebuilding mode.


You wot, m8?

[BlakFrankWhite]

One of the greatest trades of all time. Honestly, Illysova is an upgrade over Ibaka at this point... dead serious. Oladipo is a future superstar and another Westbrook-like athlete.... plus they get Sabonis a young terrorizer with huge upside. :yaohappy:

They got instantly better, younger, and deeper. :yaohappy:

Holy shit. :yaohappy: :yaohappy: :yaohappy:

Yeah, I still can't believe we got three rising stars for the price of a declining PF, who's prolly 30+.

[BlakFrankWhite]

Damn. That means KD is leaving. Their dumping their assets to enter rebuilding mode.

Whatchu talkin about? We freein money for STEVEN ADAMS :rockon:

[dabigbaws]

But we lose dick length...

I like ibaka but he gonna get exposed without being bird fed his points. rip his career

[Thunderfan86]

But we lose dick length...

I like ibaka but he gonna get exposed without being bird fed his points. rip his career
Meh.....dick length is overrated anyway. It's all about that THICKNESS! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[BlakFrankWhite]

can't they still?

I mean, I agree, bad trade for Magics. But Ibaka and Gordon can co-exist on the floor if Ibaka plays C in the small line ups, or Gordon play SF in regular line-ups?

You'd be surprised to see how Ibaka hates getting into rebounding battles, he won't play C.

But on the other hand a Vuc/Ibaka front court is great.

[dabigbaws]

watching oladipo highlights... CAN NOT WAIT

dropped 45 on the cavs and 37 on OKC

BIG game player.

Westbrook
Oladipo
Durant
Kanter
Adams

you gotta be kidding me. thats the best offensive line up in NBA history.

WOOOOOO

[BlakFrankWhite]

watching oladipo highlights... CAN NOT WAIT

dropped 45 on the cavs and 37 on OKC

BIG game player.

Westbrook
Oladipo
Durant
Kanter
Adams

you gotta be kidding me. thats the best offensive line up in NBA history.

WOOOOOO

Bench:

Payne
Roberson
Singler
Collision
Ilyasova
Sabonis

This is garbage. Won't be surprised if we trade Kanter for a better a good 3 &D guy and a better bench.

[raprap]

Bench:

Payne
Roberson
Singler
Collision
Ilyasova
Sabonis

This is garbage. Won't be surprised if we trade Kanter for a better a good 3 &D guy and a better bench.
Is waiters a free agent?

Yup, you guys need 3&D players. Singler and Roberson are specialists. Singler is garbo too

[Ben Simmons]

watching oladipo highlights... CAN NOT WAIT

dropped 45 on the cavs and 37 on OKC

BIG game player.

Westbrook
Oladipo
Durant
Kanter
Adams

you gotta be kidding me. thats the best offensive line up in NBA history.

WOOOOOO
No, the 3point shot isnt there like it is for the Warriors.

[BlakFrankWhite]

Is waiters a free agent?

Yup, you guys need 3&D players. Singler and Roberson are specialists. Singler is garbo too

He's an RFA, but I doubt we pay him now that we've gotten an upgrade.

[Prime_Shaq]

I've been a Magic fan for 13 years. That's over until Rob is fired.
Try being a Magic fan since the Shaq days

[Meticode]

I guess the report is that Ibaka wasn't happy with his role on the team and he was going to walk anyway. I wonder what he wasn't happy about? I thought he was legit getting the third most shots on the team behind Westbrook and Durant?

[ArbitraryWater]

Try being a Magic fan since the Shaq days

You're definitely not that old.

[Ben Simmons]

I guess the report is that Ibaka wasn't happy with his role on the team and he was going to walk anyway. I wonder what he wasn't happy about? I thought he was legit getting the third most shots on the team behind Westbrook and Durant?
He use to be the third option, but as OKC gets better players he gets less shots

[Prime_Shaq]

You're definitely not that old.
Thats nice, I'll take your word for it.

[Ramiah]

How does this trade help magic at all? WTF....They get an aging Ibaka and OKC gets a young and firey Oladipo....Makes 0 sense.

https://s31.postimg.org/f75ij0azv/Screenie255.png

[JohnnySic]

GREAT trade for OKC.

Assuming they keep Durant:

Adams
Kanter/Sabonis
Durant/Ilyasova
Oladipo/Roberson/Waiters/Morrow
Westbrook/Foye

[dunksby]

Holy shit, that's one for the ages :lebronamazed:

[juju151111]

GREAT trade for OKC.

Assuming they keep Durant:

Adams
Kanter/Sabonis
Durant/Ilyasova
Oladipo/Roberson/Waiters/Morrow
Westbrook/Foye
Defense will take a major hit with kantar.

[dabigbaws]

Defense will take a major hit with kantar.

trust me, Ibaka is not a good defender at all.

[Klay 3D]

24 year old averaging 16/5/4

got traded for:

34 year old averaging 13/7/1

:wtf:

:biggums:

:coleman:

[Bosnian Sajo]

24 year old averaging 16/5/4

got traded for:

34 year old averaging 13/7/1

:wtf:

:biggums:

:coleman:


Except Serge Ibaka is 26..................................

[Doranku]

Man, poor Ibaka. Dude was balling in the playoffs this past year and he gets rewarded by getting shipped out to one of the worst franchises in the sport. :oldlol:

[Meticode]

Except Serge Ibaka is 26..................................
He's older than that. 26 is a lie.

[SexSymbol]

this is awesome, steal of the century.
Ibaka is rich man's trash.

[HurricaneKid]

I can't believe how many people here think Dipo can play. He can't shoot, turns the ball over all the time, and has been a huge disappointment. Ibaka is 1 of 1 players in the NBA that can defend the rim and shoot 3s.

And Illy isn't even going to stick in OKC. His only value is that his contract can be bought out for 2M. HE is the one who is 5 years older than people acknowledged. And his cement dipped feet don't fly in today's NBA.

[kamil]

they almost got past the warriors with ibaka, durant and westbrook... why screw up that core?

[tamaraw08]

GREAT trade for OKC.

Assuming they keep Durant:

Adams
Kanter/Sabonis
Durant/Ilyasova
Oladipo/Roberson/Waiters/Morrow
Westbrook/Foye

Oladipo is a below average 3pt shooter hovering about 34%. :(

[DMAVS41]

GREAT trade for OKC.

Assuming they keep Durant:

Adams
Kanter/Sabonis
Durant/Ilyasova
Oladipo/Roberson/Waiters/Morrow
Westbrook/Foye

It's good even if they don't. They got younger and got rid of an asset they didn't want to keep into the next contract cycle.

I do think people need to tap the brakes a bit on proclaiming the Thunder a lot better. Ibaka was really good for them and helped a ton in the Warriors series.

Dipo does give them a lot of what they are missing, but I'd like to see them add one more piece before I say they got a lot better.

So I think people are conflating it being terrible for the Magic (which it was...just beyond bad)...and thinking that means it definitely makes the Thunder better.

Ibaka/Waiters vs the package the Thuner just got...I'd probably go with Ibaka/Waiters just for 1 year. So the question is...what else can they add.

[DMAVS41]

I can't believe how many people here think Dipo can play. He can't shoot, turns the ball over all the time, and has been a huge disappointment. Ibaka is 1 of 1 players in the NBA that can defend the rim and shoot 3s.

And Illy isn't even going to stick in OKC. His only value is that his contract can be bought out for 2M. HE is the one who is 5 years older than people acknowledged. And his cement dipped feet don't fly in today's NBA.

That is a bit harsh. He isn't a terrible shooter...and we haven't seen him playing a role like this.

He is a good defender and a good athlete...and doesn't have to do a lot of the things you talk about above.

Now, I do agree that his shooting isn't great and that he isn't quite the force he was projected to be.

Also totally agree that Ibaka is now being undervalue for what he meant to the Thunder.

Like I said...this trade was absolutely horrible for the Magic not because Ibaka sucks, but because trading that package for Ibaka for a non contending team is beyond dumb.

I also think people are over-rating that package a little for what it means to the Thunder.

However, I am more optimistic than you are about what his play and role will be like on the Thunder...assuming Durant stays. Just like I was about Kanter. Sometimes young guys get better. Sometimes the right situation in well suited role brings out the best.

I think the Thunder are a damn near perfect fit for Dipo...doesn't have to carry a huge burden and gets to focus on being the player he is.

The shooting will be the big issue. I don't see it nearly as bad as you. He's not getting great looks in Orlando at the rate he will on the Thunder.

And he has improved his range shooting so far. He was a 35% shooter from 3 this year on 4 attempts per game. I think that number could get to 38 to 40 percent on the kind of looks he'll get with some hard work.

And if he gets to that....he's ideal for them.

[HurricaneKid]

That is a bit harsh. He isn't a terrible shooter...and we haven't seen him playing a role like this.

He is a good defender and a good athlete...and doesn't have to do a lot of the things you talk about above.

Now, I do agree that his shooting isn't great and that he isn't quite the force he was projected to be.

Also totally agree that Ibaka is now being undervalue for what he meant to the Thunder.

Like I said...this trade was absolutely horrible for the Magic not because Ibaka sucks, but because trading that package for Ibaka for a non contending team is beyond dumb.

I also think people are over-rating that package a little for what it means to the Thunder.

However, I am more optimistic than you are about what his play and role will be like on the Thunder...assuming Durant stays. Just like I was about Kanter. Sometimes young guys get better. Sometimes the right situation in well suited role brings out the best.

I think the Thunder are a damn near perfect fit for Dipo...doesn't have to carry a huge burden and gets to focus on being the player he is.

The shooting will be the big issue. I don't see it nearly as bad as you. He's not getting great looks in Orlando at the rate he will on the Thunder.

And he has improved his range shooting so far. He was a 35% shooter from 3 this year on 4 attempts per game. I think that number could get to 38 to 40 percent on the kind of looks he'll get with some hard work.

And if he gets to that....he's ideal for them.

I think the issue was that because of the Thunder's roster they really weren't able to use Ibaka correctly. Rather than anchor a defense he was playing with either Adams or Kanter who played the 5, and he was out on the perimeter a lot more than he ever should have been. He is an IDEAL 5 in today's game, but was getting almost NO minutes there. And rather than be the pick man in PnRs he was just sitting in the corner. Its just poor usage for a man with his skill set. And OKC was better when KD played the 4 so he became almost entirely redundant. He was also professional and up front with his frustrations and I think the FO knew he was going to go elsewhere at the end of the year.

I really thought Vic was going to be the best player in his class. His shooting struggled through the transition from college to pros with the lengthier line. Perhaps he can sit in the corner and make shorter 3s. But his slashing is going to be almost entirely redundant for the Thunder as Russ does it so much better. It allows OKC to play KD at the 4 more as they just didn't have the wings to do it last year. And Adams/KD/Roberson/Dipo/Westbrook could be a DEVASTATING defensive squad. But Dipo wants to get PAID and was looking for a 5 yr extension from Orlando this offseason. Which is why he isn't there any more.

And that is the big problem with OKC. They still hit the financial wall after this season. Even if KD elects to do a 1+1 and stick around for another year (which is BEST CASE for OKC), that will leave Durant, Westbrook, Adams, and Oladipo as FAs next offseason. Bennett let Harden go over 4M. Do we really think he is going to pony up the 700M he will need to in order to keep the team intact? Because if he doesn't, those guys are going to scatter. And the best young core in recent memory will have been wasted.

I don't think too much of Sabonis 2.0. He might be able to play backup 5 but they already have two massive players at that spot. He can't stretch defenses and I question his role for the team. And Illy is making 8.4M this year and cannot defend in space. He is the opposite of the athletic squad the Thunder have put together. Unless OKC can't hit the salary floor I would expect them to cut his 8.4 (for only 200k).

When it comes down to it this is more a trade to get two guys new surroundings a year ahead of their free agency as neither were in the long term plans of their initial franchises.

[dunksby]

I'm rather more excited for Sabanis rather than Dipo, don't get me wrong I'm a fan of his game, especially his defensive impact, but Sabonis is the most intriguing piece in this trade.

[Sakkreth]

I'm rather more excited for Sabanis rather than Dipo, don't get me wrong I'm a fan of his game, especially his defensive impact, but Sabonis is the most intriguing piece in this trade.

OKC in the finals next season :applause:

[Spurs5Rings2014]

OKC in the finals next season :applause:

Don't see how you get their without Durant, playboy.

:oldlol:

[DMAVS41]

I think the issue was that because of the Thunder's roster they really weren't able to use Ibaka correctly. Rather than anchor a defense he was playing with either Adams or Kanter who played the 5, and he was out on the perimeter a lot more than he ever should have been. He is an IDEAL 5 in today's game, but was getting almost NO minutes there. And rather than be the pick man in PnRs he was just sitting in the corner. Its just poor usage for a man with his skill set. And OKC was better when KD played the 4 so he became almost entirely redundant. He was also professional and up front with his frustrations and I think the FO knew he was going to go elsewhere at the end of the year.

I really thought Vic was going to be the best player in his class. His shooting struggled through the transition from college to pros with the lengthier line. Perhaps he can sit in the corner and make shorter 3s. But his slashing is going to be almost entirely redundant for the Thunder as Russ does it so much better. It allows OKC to play KD at the 4 more as they just didn't have the wings to do it last year. And Adams/KD/Roberson/Dipo/Westbrook could be a DEVASTATING defensive squad. But Dipo wants to get PAID and was looking for a 5 yr extension from Orlando this offseason. Which is why he isn't there any more.

And that is the big problem with OKC. They still hit the financial wall after this season. Even if KD elects to do a 1+1 and stick around for another year (which is BEST CASE for OKC), that will leave Durant, Westbrook, Adams, and Oladipo as FAs next offseason. Bennett let Harden go over 4M. Do we really think he is going to pony up the 700M he will need to in order to keep the team intact? Because if he doesn't, those guys are going to scatter. And the best young core in recent memory will have been wasted.

I don't think too much of Sabonis 2.0. He might be able to play backup 5 but they already have two massive players at that spot. He can't stretch defenses and I question his role for the team. And Illy is making 8.4M this year and cannot defend in space. He is the opposite of the athletic squad the Thunder have put together. Unless OKC can't hit the salary floor I would expect them to cut his 8.4 (for only 200k).

When it comes down to it this is more a trade to get two guys new surroundings a year ahead of their free agency as neither were in the long term plans of their initial franchises.

Well, I agree with most of this.

But in your first post you didn't really talk about his stuff, which I agree with...you said Oladipo wasn't that good and couldn't shoot.

I don't know what the future entails, but I'd rather be paying Dipo long term than Ibaka long term for this Thunder team.

I like Sabonis more than you, but he's obviously not relevant this coming year. However, I do think he'll be a solid rotation guy on this team after the 17 season if the band stays together.

I also think Kanter will be actually pretty easy to move because his contract is going to look so much better in a few days...and will continue to look better throughout the year and next off season.

I'm not saying they have to move Kanter...I actually might not, but that is an asset now.