Thunder got OLADIPO...boom

[IronMonkey415]

Good times for OKC..good times

[IronMonkey415]

Westbrook, Durant and Oladipo...wow look at that 3 headed monster they have.

[SelfDestruct808]

Maybe They're preparing for one of their stars to leave. Though I hope KD and Westbrook stays. Though I always wanted KD in a laker uniform

[Ottomatic]

Oladipo over Waiters is such a huge upgrade it's not even funny.

[Zacy87]

Thunder absolutely robbed the Magic, wow.

[DunkingDurant35]

They needed a third scoring option, clearly, and they got that in Oladipo. Ibaka became expendable with the development of Adams. I see why they made this move. Hopefully it will work out in reality as good as it potentially looks strategically.

[exitmusicblue]

Hellooooo KD replacement !!

[AlabamaSlamma]

I'd take Arvydas over Ibaka at this point. Hell of a deal for Presti.

[asujbl]

Westbrook, Oladipo, Durant, Sabonis, Adams...

That's a tough starting 5 matchup

[Chris P]

Dont get what Orlando is doing at all....wow. Really hope KD gives this a shot and signs the 2 year 1 year opt out deal

[exoticprince]

Great deal for Thunder ! Oladipo must be so damn happy

[ljandkg]

Ersan still plays ok too doesn't he? Massive move for the Thunder - Ibaka's effort has waned and he's definitely on the downslide of his career.
Either that or he just needs a fresh challenge.

[hairyangryfella]

As a Thunder fan, as long as we now keep KD I'm extremely excited!!

[tjforce]

Wow, this is big.

I can anyone explain what Orlando is doing here?

[bballcollector6]

I think the deal makes the Thunder better, assuming KD is there. Oladipo provides offense and much needed perimeter defense! I think Kanter should start alongside Adams, with Sabonis as a sixth man. My only fear is that KD was close to Ibaka and that this makes him more likely to leave. But the deal makes basketball sense and hopefully it's enough to keep KD.

[gameissued]

There's got to be more in store for Orlando.. clearing way for Jimmy Butler maybe?

[oshmeehan]

Ersan! Finally on a good team assuming the Thunder pick up his option

[auctionjmm]

We are gonna find out real quick just how intelligent Kevin Durant is. If he bolts for any other team at this point he is hurting his chances at winning, and that includes GS. No offense to the Warriors, but it would take them at least a year to figure out how to balance that much scoring (see the Cavs last year). For as much as Curry, Thompson, and Green like to shoot, how exactly does Kevin Durant fit in there?

This new Thunder team with Durant could be lethal and definitely well balanced. If I were Durant I would be looking to knock the Warriors out as opposed to joining them or going elsewhere and really taking a huge step back.

[JMys55]

Meh.... I don't really see this as a lopsided trade. I think you're giving oladipo too much credit. He had 3 seasons to be the man on the Magic and he never improved. He was the same player for 3 seasons and the Magic were never good. Look at his stats. No improvement and weak shooting. If KD and Westbrook stay he'll average less than what Ibaka gave them at 12.7ppg last year and he won't match the rebs. Assists will drop since he won't have the ball. He is fading into role player land and maybe he'll make an impact.

If I am a Magic fan, I am glad we're cleaning house.

Sent from my A0001 using Tapatalk

[asujbl]

Durant has to give OKC one year with the new guys.

Most money. Crazy interesting starting lineup.

Doesn't work? Bail with Westbrook next year

[asujbl]

Meh.... I don't really see this as a lopsided trade. I think you're giving oladipo too much credit. He had 3 seasons to be the man on the Magic and he never improved. He was the same player for 3 seasons and the Magic were never good. Look at his stats. No improvement and weak shooting. If KD and Westbrook stay he'll average less than what Ibaka gave them at 12.7ppg last year and he won't match the rebs. Assists will drop since he won't have the ball. He is fading into role player land and maybe he'll make an impact.

If I am a Magic fan, I am glad we're cleaning house.

Sent from my A0001 using Tapatalk

Funny how it works when it's a team no one cares about arguing about

Post a Cavs thread? Oladipo was the great hope we passed on. Same with Nerlens Noel who can't net whoever the hell Boston drafted.

Good stuff

[ninjacookies]

Orlando gets another PF when they already have a top 5 pick invested in Gordon at a fraction of the price.


Brilliance.

[JMys55]

Orlando gets another PF when they already have a top 5 pick invested in Gordon at a fraction of the price.


Brilliance.
Although there is position overlap with Gordon, I think this trade is more of a function of what they could get for oladipo. I doubt they had many options. Also Aaron Gordon is a great dunker, but still has a lot to prove after 2 seasons.

Also, Sabonis and Ilyasova both play PF so you went from 3 PFs to 2 PFs. So you're right, probably brilliance.

Sent from my A0001 using Tapatalk

[thepinoymamba]

Unless they are looking forward on Kd not signing and Westbrook taking his talents to Lakers next year

Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk

[tristan20]

Oladipo is a great fit, he can do everything.

Ibaka will be replaced by Adams as we all know.

Excellent pickup, provided Durant stays

[asujbl]

I don't see how anyone can't love this for OKC...

For Orlando? Who knows. Does anyone care? It could be an A+ for both teams but only one team is close

[Rip67vdub]

Westbrook, Durant's replacement and Oladipo...wow look at that 3 headed monster they have.

Fixed it for you.

[RYBOWSKI97]

great move by okc, hope this helps KD decide to stay. They have the tools to beat the warriors, think they just need a team psychologist

[Kefka891]

We are gonna find out real quick just how intelligent Kevin Durant is. If he bolts for any other team at this point he is hurting his chances at winning, and that includes GS. No offense to the Warriors, but it would take them at least a year to figure out how to balance that much scoring (see the Cavs last year). For as much as Curry, Thompson, and Green like to shoot, how exactly does Kevin Durant fit in there?

This new Thunder team with Durant could be lethal and definitely well balanced. If I were Durant I would be looking to knock the Warriors out as opposed to joining them or going elsewhere and really taking a huge step back.

Actually your thinking is unintelligent, no offense. If it stays with the Thunder he'd still have a tough match up playing the Warriors. Where if he joined the Warriors it's one less tough match up since OKC wouldn't be as good.

However, this may help KD stay anyways.

[6celtics33]

Amazing trade for the Thunder

[Doublexthebeast]

Really happy for my Thunder to complete this trade. First time we have ever had a 2 way shooting guard. Oladipo should be great alongside Durant and Westbrook. Those 3 should be great in the open court.

[JMys55]

Lol, looks like I am the only one against this trade for OKC :D

I am indifferent to both teams...but let's focus on OKC since there are claims here that they are the only team that matters...

So let me get this straight....everyone is happy to breakup a starting lineup (that should have been in the NBA finals, but lost a 3-1 lead due to poor late game player decision making) for a high draft pick from a weak draft 3 years ago and a rookie from Gonzaga, who doesnt exactly have a history of NBA talent? The team just took a step back at getting closer to the finals.

Oladipo hasnt been to the playoffs. It will be surprising if Sabonis starts and if he was really good, he would have easily went higher than 11th overall since there wasnt that much competition this year. Ilyasova is likely to be released to waive his $8M salary will become only $400K if released by July 1st. OKC is clearing cap for Durant and Westbrook, not exactly improving the team.

Still don't think this lineup is better than:
Westbrook, Durant, Adams, Ibaka, Waiters/Roberson

The real question is, how is anyone else not seeing this?


Westbrook, Oladipo, Durant, Sabonis, Adams...

That's a tough starting 5 matchup

[jj2]

Killer move by OKC assuming Durant actually stays (which this should at least make him think twice about).

[pingbling23]

Durant is gone, sorry okc fans.

[asujbl]

Lol, looks like I am the only one against this trade for OKC :D

I am indifferent to both teams...but let's focus on OKC since there are claims here that they are the only team that matters...

So let me get this straight....everyone is happy to breakup a starting lineup (that should have been in the NBA finals, but lost a 3-1 lead due to poor late game player decision making) for a high draft pick from a weak draft 3 years ago and a rookie from Gonzaga, who doesnt exactly have a history of NBA talent? The team just took a step back at getting closer to the finals.

Oladipo hasnt been to the playoffs. It will be surprising if Sabonis starts and if he was really good, he would have easily went higher than 11th overall since there wasnt that much competition this year. Ilyasova is likely to be released to waive his $8M salary will become only $400K if released by July 1st. OKC is clearing cap for Durant and Westbrook, not exactly improving the team.

Still don't think this lineup is better than:
Westbrook, Durant, Adams, Ibaka, Waiters/Roberson

The real question is, how is anyone else not seeing this?

You're on an island. Stand tall. This trade is almost universally loved for OKC.

ESPN (not that it matters) just gave it a B+

[tjforce]

Lol, looks like I am the only one against this trade for OKC :D

I am indifferent to both teams...but let's focus on OKC since there are claims here that they are the only team that matters...

So let me get this straight....everyone is happy to breakup a starting lineup (that should have been in the NBA finals, but lost a 3-1 lead due to poor late game player decision making) for a high draft pick from a weak draft 3 years ago and a rookie from Gonzaga, who doesnt exactly have a history of NBA talent? The team just took a step back at getting closer to the finals.

Oladipo hasnt been to the playoffs. It will be surprising if Sabonis starts and if he was really good, he would have easily went higher than 11th overall since there wasnt that much competition this year. Ilyasova is likely to be released to waive his $8M salary will become only $400K if released by July 1st. OKC is clearing cap for Durant and Westbrook, not exactly improving the team.

Still don't think this lineup is better than:
Westbrook, Durant, Adams, Ibaka, Waiters/Roberson

The real question is, how is anyone else not seeing this?

Look at Ibaka's production. He's been regressing three straight years across the board. Scoring, shooting %, blocks, rebounds; all getting worse.

OKC has some bigs, they lack any scoring punch out of the shooting guard position. Andre Roberson is terrible offensively and Dion Waiters is a joke. They were also able to free some cap space. Great deal.

[JMys55]

I'll just state the obvious now....

2016-17 OKC will have a worse record and exit the playoffs earlier than 2015-16 OKC (55-27, 1 game from NBA finals with 3 chances).

This includes Durant/Westbrook staying and barring any significant injuries. See you next year :D

Look at Ibaka's production. He's been regressing three straight years across the board. Scoring, shooting %, blocks, rebounds; all getting worse.

OKC has some bigs, they lack any scoring punch out of the shooting guard position. Andre Roberson is terrible offensively and Dion Waiters is a joke. They were also able to free some cap space. Great deal.

[tjforce]

I'll just state the obvious now....

2016-17 OKC will have a worse record and exit the playoffs earlier than 2015-16 OKC (55-27, 1 game from NBA finals with 3 chances).

This includes Durant/Westbrook staying and barring any significant injuries. See you next year :D

You sound about as confident as all the Dubs fans proclaiming a Finals victory after game 1

[pingbling23]

You sound about as confident as all the Dubs fans proclaiming a Finals victory after game 1

Game 1? Try early July....

[exitmusicblue]

Fixed it for you.

Durant is gone, sorry okc fans.

Boom baby bingo :flex:

[CubKings]

I loved Ibaka, he will be missed. But how can anyone not be happy to get Dipo? He is the other scorer they so need. Waiters hasn't been that dude.

[tennelson55]

Lol, looks like I am the only one against this trade for OKC :D

I am indifferent to both teams...but let's focus on OKC since there are claims here that they are the only team that matters...

So let me get this straight....everyone is happy to breakup a starting lineup (that should have been in the NBA finals, but lost a 3-1 lead due to poor late game player decision making) for a high draft pick from a weak draft 3 years ago and a rookie from Gonzaga, who doesnt exactly have a history of NBA talent? The team just took a step back at getting closer to the finals.

Oladipo hasnt been to the playoffs. It will be surprising if Sabonis starts and if he was really good, he would have easily went higher than 11th overall since there wasnt that much competition this year. Ilyasova is likely to be released to waive his $8M salary will become only $400K if released by July 1st. OKC is clearing cap for Durant and Westbrook, not exactly improving the team.

Still don't think this lineup is better than:
Westbrook, Durant, Adams, Ibaka, Waiters/Roberson

The real question is, how is anyone else not seeing this?

You're not alone, I HATE this trade for OKC.

The thunder got to the WCF and were 3-1 leading the dubs and if they made it to the finals I'd favor them over the Cavs in a heartbeat due to their bigs (not sure now). The thunder lose a big man who's athletic and capable of guarding the perimeter. They gain a scoring guard (I don't know why you do this... Waiters is a lesser version of olandipo) and another big guy coming out of college? He's unproven and who knows if he or kanter will start.
I guess they don't have to pay ibaka next year, but I really don't understand this unless they're planning on letting go Westbrook.

Orlando dumps contracts and will be cap free next year after ibaka leaves. They're on complete destruct mode, I'm happy they're not in purgatory anymore. It's complete rebuild.

[tennelson55]

Also, why does everyone think victor can put up anything? He played on Orlando and they're not competing much in the east. He's a role player behind Westbrook and when they go olandipo/Durant/Westbrook/?/Adams they're losing size at SG

[asujbl]

You're not alone, I HATE this trade for OKC.

The thunder got to the WCF and were 3-1 leading the dubs and if they made it to the finals I'd favor them over the Cavs in a heartbeat due to their bigs (not sure now). The thunder lose a big man who's athletic and capable of guarding the perimeter. They gain a scoring guard (I don't know why you do this... Waiters is a lesser version of olandipo) and another big guy coming out of college? He's unproven and who knows if he or kanter will start.
I guess they don't have to pay ibaka next year, but I really don't understand this unless they're planning on letting go Westbrook.

Orlando dumps contracts and will be cap free next year after ibaka leaves. They're on complete destruct mode, I'm happy they're not in purgatory anymore. It's complete rebuild.


So...
They upgraded Waiters...
They don't have to pay Ibaka...
They can rotate Kanter and Sabonis for different lineups...
Ibaka is going to want paid, and paid big, so Orlando is renting him and OKC gains cap space...

So you like it?

Confused

[tennelson55]

So...
They upgraded Waiters...
They don't have to pay Ibaka...
They can rotate Kanter and Sabonis for different lineups...
Ibaka is going to want paid, and paid big, so Orlando is renting him and OKC gains cap space...

So you like it?

Confused

I hate it.

Ibaka is perfect IMO to what they were playing with. He could step out to unclog the lane and shoot the three (when Westbrook drives and kicks). I thought serge played great d too, shoring up the defensive woes of other players so that they could rely on a decent shot blocker.

I don't think olandipo is anything more than a 1.3 version of waiters and now their lineup is exposed when they have to play a team with a bigger SG and shooting pf (ala the Warriors/Cavs)

[asujbl]

I hate it.

Ibaka is perfect IMO to what they were playing with. He could step out to unclog the lane and shoot the three (when Westbrook drives and kicks). I thought serge played great d too, shoring up the defensive woes of other players so that they could rely on a decent shot blocker.

I don't think olandipo is anything more than a 1.3 version of waiters and now their lineup is exposed when they have to play a team with a bigger SG and shooting pf (ala the Warriors/Cavs)


I know you hate it.

Your post was not indicative of that

[mjw9002]

http://i1347.photobucket.com/albums/p717/michaelwhitten21/Untitled_zpsxyhfxkas.jpg (http://s1347.photobucket.com/user/michaelwhitten21/media/Untitled_zpsxyhfxkas.jpg.html)

rather see the 4 headed monster than the 3....

[JMys55]

asujbl...i'm sorry to kill your dream here.

The simplest argument is...you dont mess with the chemistry of the team that was that close to making the NBA finals; it is unlikely you will make the team better. In this case they got worse.

Also, money in this situation is irrelevant, cause you pay what it takes to keep the team intake. But if you want to discuss Ibaka's pay (who makes $12.5M)....Enes Kanter is a bench player who makes $17.2M/year. You don't have to tell me....I know you didnt know.


So...
They upgraded Waiters...
They don't have to pay Ibaka...
They can rotate Kanter and Sabonis for different lineups...
Ibaka is going to want paid, and paid big, so Orlando is renting him and OKC gains cap space...

So you like it?

Confused

[exitmusicblue]

Gross, mjw, gross...

Melo proceeds to character-assassinate KD, Rose out for the season after 5 games...

[asujbl]

asujbl...i'm sorry to kill your dream here.

The simplest argument is...you dont mess with the chemistry of the team that was that close to making the NBA finals; it is unlikely you will make the team better. In this case they got worse.

Also, money in this situation is irrelevant, cause you pay what it takes to keep the team intake. But if you want to discuss Ibaka's pay (who makes $12.5M)....Enes Kanter is a bench player who makes $17.2M/year. You don't have to tell me....I know you didnt know.


Missing the point

[xavieronly1]

OKC wants PF who can shoot 3s. Ibaka couldn't develop this 3 point shot in the last 2 seasons. But I can say that OKC is going to miss Ibaka's defense.

As good as Oladipo is, I don't think he will get enough touches behind Durant/Westbrook. Unless OKC expects that Durant is going to leave, and Oladipo would be the #2 option.

hmmmm

[auctionjmm]

Actually your thinking is unintelligent, no offense. If it stays with the Thunder he'd still have a tough match up playing the Warriors. Where if he joined the Warriors it's one less tough match up since OKC wouldn't be as good.

However, this may help KD stay anyways.

Not true. If/when OKC regresses, the next young team will be ready to step into the spotlight just like GS did two years ago. Leaving OKC for GS doesn't necessarily make the road easier. I feel that it complicates things because those 4 players all require the ball, and there is just no way they'd all get the same looks. Their combined scoring right now is 92 PPG. I'm not saying it can't be done, but Curry would have to sacrifice points for assists, and Green would have to sacrifice points for rebounds and blocks. Durant and Klay would be the new bash brothers. Is Curry willing to be the 3rd option next year? I could see major chemistry issues at least in the first year, and then major cap issues later on when GS has to figure out how to keep four "max" players happy while still supplying a quality bench. OKC has a guaranteed window right now if Durant and Westbrook agree to shorter deals and this team stays constructed as is.

For the record, I do believe Golden State will be great again in the near future, but I think it's going to take them another year or two to figure that out. They have way too many free agents coming up, and they are essentially going to be rebuilding around their own big three. The next 1-2 years may be the best chance that any WC team has to reach the finals before big bad GS figures it out and comes back even stronger.

[bdrr]

Welp, should not have that that Victor NT go for $235.

[Cervantes]

I'm of the opinion that this is a very good trade for OKC. I think they were thinking ahead, in that Ibaka was going to command a ton of money that they didn't have to give him.

He was going elsewhere anyways, imo.

Also, if Durant leaves, this is a better team without him than if they hadn't made the trade. Or, if KD stays and Westbrook leaves...again, imo, this is a better overall team, because Ibaka was gone anyways.

Great trade.

[JMys55]

Still have to disagree with this. I would rather have Ibaka for 1 year at $12.5M, then pay Oladipo $8.5M (who is a Restricted FA next summer) and Ilyasova $8M, (if he doesnt get waived, which is likely).

OKC could be renting Oladipo just as much as ORL is renting Ibaka. The team fit and the money make sense for OKC to keep Ibaka for 1 more year.


I'm of the opinion that this is a very good trade for OKC. I think they were thinking ahead, in that Ibaka was going to command a ton of money that they didn't have to give him.

He was going elsewhere anyways, imo.

Also, if Durant leaves, this is a better team without him than if they hadn't made the trade. Or, if KD stays and Westbrook leaves...again, imo, this is a better overall team, because Ibaka was gone anyways.

Great trade.

[cedar rapids]

I feel bad for Ibaka. Should feel worse for the magic, but can't for them being this stupid. It just doesn't seem like they can benefit from this. the thunder just gained some much needed perimeter d in oladipo.

[vinsanity15]

I called it I should be a GM lol. What a trade by OKC exactly what they needed. There officially to me the best team in the west now this is all they need a good 2 guard. What a trade man unreal. Now if KD leaves he really is a moron.

[UltimateDeron]

I don't know what to feel right now... :-/

[Archangel1775]

So Spencer Adams and a young energetic Sabonis. Those two are going to cause issues for teams inside. Sabonis looks like he has a decent perimeter shot. Never mind he's left handed. Should KD stay, they may actually be second best in the West next year.

[darscards35kd]

I don't know what to feel right now... :-/

How do you think this affects his hobby standing? I think it could be good for him ultimately.

[UltimateDeron]

How do you think this affects his hobby standing? I think it could be good for him ultimately.

Well, a bunch of his stuff sold via BIN tonight so that is a bright side. It shows that OKC fans will buy his stuff regardless what jersey he is wearing.

I wanted him to stay in Orlando or go to a team where he had the ball in his hands alot. We'll see how that works in OKC, but they only play with 1 basketball and Russ, KD, and now Oladipo will all want shots. I really don't see how this works honestly.

Pretty rough few days for me.. Rooted so hard for the Warriors, then DRose got traded, and now Oladipo gets traded. Klay better watch out haha! (Just kidding.. He's safe as safe gets)

[UltimateDeron]

So Spencer Adams and a young energetic Sabonis. Those two are going to cause issues for teams inside. Sabonis looks like he has a decent perimeter shot. Never mind he's left handed. Should KD stay, they may actually be second best in the West next year.

With KD they are the 2nd best team in the west. They proved that in the playoffs. Whether or not they play hard enough in the regular season to get the 2 seed is a different story.

I wanted KD to go to Golden State all along, and I still do. Either way though he'll be primed for a legit shot at a title for the next 5-7 years.

[Magicpenny]

Pump the breaks Thunder fans, Victor is there for his defense. In Orlando he was attempting 14 shots a game to get those numbers, he will not be a good option as a third scorer. Anyway u guys will see why majority of Magic fans are not heartbroken because he got traded.

[Magicpenny]

Orlando gets another PF when they already have a top 5 pick invested in Gordon at a fraction of the price.


Brilliance.

Aaron Gordon is a classic 6'8 tweener, if he doesn't develop an outside ga,e, he doesn't have the strength to score inside, and gets moved around 2 easily by the PF's in the East, on defense. Now that we have Ibaka, we have our PF that can compete with the East.

[UltimateDeron]

Pump the breaks Thunder fans, Victor is there for his defense. In Orlando he was attempting 14 shots a game to get those numbers, he will not be a good option as a third scorer. Anyway u guys will see why majority of Magic fans are not heartbroken because he got traded.

Trust me. I watched every Magic game last year and Scott Skiles did not use Oladipo right. It's one of the reasons he was fired after just 1 season.

Oladipo being the 3rd option in OKC means he'll get even better looks than he did in Orlando. If Westbrook and Durant are on the floor the defense is focused in one them. That will make it alot easier for Oladipo to score. In Orlando the defense was focused on him much more than they will be when he's playing in OKC.

Last season Ibaka took 11 shots for 12.6 PPG and Waiters took 9 shots for 9.8 PPG. I don't see why it's a big deal Oladipo took 13.5 shots for 16 PPG.

But yes, his defense is very good.

[ninjacookies]

Aaron Gordon is a classic 6'8 tweener, if he doesn't develop an outside ga,e, he doesn't have the strength to score inside, and gets moved around 2 easily by the PF's in the East, on defense. Now that we have Ibaka, we have our PF that can compete with the East.

He may be a tweener, but he crashes the boards like a PF. Probably due to his athleticism. While I agree that he doesn't have the strength to really defend well against elite tier pf's, he's certainly showed very solid signs of improvement last year when given starter minutes.

My main point is...is Ibaka really work 4-5x more per year for what he does? I can understand if it was a Lamarcus Aldridge type, but I don't view Ibaka as a huge improvement except maybe on defense. Offensively he's about as inconsistent as it gets, regardless of his attempts to become a stretch 4 like Kris Humphries.

[daeve]

yeah this is only a bad trade for Orlando if Ibaka is really on the decline, but honestly if Vogel wanted him then he will probably be used well, and he fits perfectly next to Vucci. If he's really much older than his listed age and his body is in decline AND Dipo takes a star turn, then its a bad trade... right now it fits for both teams though I give the edge to OKC because I do like Dipo and he's buddies with Durant, so that likely means KD is staying put.

[daeve]

also, for everyone worrying about Gordon, I'm pretty sure he's plenty athletic enough to guard 3's... he'll likely start next to Ibaka with Hezonja off the bench as the 6. Payton-Fournier-Gordon-Ibaka-Vucci is fun and Hezonja and Gordon give them some flexibility on the wings.

[ninjacookies]

also, for everyone worrying about Gordon, I'm pretty sure he's plenty athletic enough to guard 3's... he'll likely start next to Ibaka with Hezonja off the bench as the 6. Payton-Fournier-Gordon-Ibaka-Vucci is fun and Hezonja and Gordon give them some flexibility on the wings.

Man. That's some severe scoring deficiency in a starting 5.

Gonna have to pray Fournier goes off and Vucci gets 40 touches a night.

[daeve]

Man. That's some severe scoring deficiency in a starting 5.

Gonna have to pray Fournier goes off and Vucci gets 40 touches a night.

could also have Hezonja start at SF if Vogel decides he needs to go with offense. I suspect both he and Gordon will improve their games in the near future.

[Andy5]

I can't comment much on the OKC side of the trade other than saying Victor will be a fantastic 3rd option and great wing defender. His rookie contract ends after next season though so it will be interesting to see if OKC can keep him, Russ and KD.

In terms of the trade for Orlando, any Magic fan would know that the first thing the team needed was interior defense. Vucevic is offensively minded and even though Gordon is very good defensively, he's a tweener who would be better suited at the 3. Ibaka has shown a decline in his stats for the past few seasons but he's still a solid defensive big with the ability to guard the perimeter also. Plus I believe his role changed over the years once OKC stopped persisting with Perkins and brought in some decent bigs (Adams, Kanter). He will be the perfect fit alongside Vucevic (if Vooch isn't traded). He can also play the 5 if the team goes small ball.

It's tough to see Dipo go. By all reports Fournier will re-sign which is good because he showed that he can provide offense when needed and actually shoot the ball. Then you've got Hezonja waiting in the wings and about $30+ mil to sign whoever they feel would compliment the team. With Vogel at the helm there's lots of reasons to feel excited for the Magic's upcoming season!

I do understand how people can say that OKC won the trade. I agree actually thatt they won the deal but only because they got Sabonis thrown in. It's just not as much as a landslide as people are making it out to be.

[Andy5]

Trust me. I watched every Magic game last year and Scott Skiles did not use Oladipo right. It's one of the reasons he was fired after just 1 season.

Oladipo being the 3rd option in OKC means he'll get even better looks than he did in Orlando. If Westbrook and Durant are on the floor the defense is focused in one them. That will make it alot easier for Oladipo to score. In Orlando the defense was focused on him much more than they will be when he's playing in OKC.

Last season Ibaka took 11 shots for 12.6 PPG and Waiters took 9 shots for 9.8 PPG. I don't see why it's a big deal Oladipo took 13.5 shots for 16 PPG.

But yes, his defense is very good.

Skiles wasn't fired, it was his decision to quit. Unless you believe the rumors of a fallout behind the scenes.

I agree with the rest, Oladipo is a good chance to be more efficient as the third option.

[Magicpenny]

Trust me. I watched every Magic game last year and Scott Skiles did not use Oladipo right. It's one of the reasons he was fired after just 1 season.

Oladipo being the 3rd option in OKC means he'll get even better looks than he did in Orlando. If Westbrook and Durant are on the floor the defense is focused in one them. That will make it alot easier for Oladipo to score. In Orlando the defense was focused on him much more than they will be when he's playing in OKC.

Last season Ibaka took 11 shots for 12.6 PPG and Waiters took 9 shots for 9.8 PPG. I don't see why it's a big deal Oladipo took 13.5 shots for 16 PPG.

But yes, his defense is very good.

Your statements about Skiles really shows you do not follow the Magic close. When coaches get fired they get paid walking away money. Skiles left 12 million dollars on the table and walked away. He is not gonna get paid for the last 2 year of his contract because he quit and did not get fired.

Vic is a horrible outside shooter, watching him this season he'll mist 5-6 shots before he hits his first jumpshot, then he'll warm up, guy is a volume shooter. He'll be there for his D, and that is pretty much it.

[vinsanity15]

With KD they are the 2nd best team in the west. They proved that in the playoffs. Whether or not they play hard enough in the regular season to get the 2 seed is a different story.

I wanted KD to go to Golden State all along, and I still do. Either way though he'll be primed for a legit shot at a title for the next 5-7 years.

With KD they are the best this is exactly what they needed can't wait to see this team.

[Magicpenny]

also, for everyone worrying about Gordon, I'm pretty sure he's plenty athletic enough to guard 3's... he'll likely start next to Ibaka with Hezonja off the bench as the 6. Payton-Fournier-Gordon-Ibaka-Vucci is fun and Hezonja and Gordon give them some flexibility on the wings.

Actually he is not able to guard the SF's, that is why they stuck him at PF and had Fournier at SF spot, because he can at least stay in front of his man. Magic never had him pegged as the PF of the future, that is why they went after Ibaka.

[ninjacookies]

Magic never had him pegged as the PF of the future, that is why they went after Ibaka.

Why on earth did they draft him top 5? That makes zero sense whatsoever.

[Magicpenny]

Why on earth did they draft him top 5? That makes zero sense whatsoever.

Aaron was best available pick that years draft. Was either him or Noah Vonleigh.

[Kingchrispaul]

I understand it, but i don't like it for either team. I do think a having a less ball dominant player at Magic well help some of those other guys develop - particularly herzonja but he was the only real scorer they have aside from harris who they also traded (presumably because they are both ineffective chuckers).

I love Ibaka's D and hustle and he played great against Spurs and Warriors. Not sold this was the right move for either team.

[rookies]

The best part is if Roberson can hit a 3. He can defend with the best guys. You're telling me Westbrook oladipo roberson kd and ADams doesnt destroy rebounds and defense. So lengthy as well I think it makes OKC title favorites if they didnt choke this year I think they beat cleveland as its a bad matchup for the cavs.

[nissandriver77]

There is talk Clippers are chasing KD for Blake sign and trade

[GC1980]

There is talk Clippers are chasing KD for Blake sign and trade

That rumor has been around for at least a year. It's a good move for both teams if Blake is healthy and OKC fears losing KD.

[spurs50fan]

So you're telling me Ibaka won't be causing havoc for the Spurs next year :)!

[atoaz12]

The league lets this go through but blocked the CP3 trade... dumb

[xavieronly1]

The league lets this go through but blocked the CP3 trade... dumb

NO was league-owned during CP3 trade. Apple vs orange.

[csrockerzero]

Great trade for OKC. I agree that KD will sign a 1-year and see how things shape up until the cap increases.

As for Orlando, I've got to think that they're stacking up assets for a trade. Bulls may be clinging onto Jimmy more and more every day, but I know that they had a lot of interest in Aaron Gordon when they scouted the 2014 draft. Who knows... Otherwise, acquiring Ibaka is a bit of a head-scratcher for Orlando :confused:

[Magicpenny]

Great trade for OKC. I agree that KD will sign a 1-year and see how things shape up until the cap increases.

As for Orlando, I've got to think that they're stacking up assets for a trade. Bulls may be clinging onto Jimmy more and more every day, but I know that they had a lot of interest in Aaron Gordon when they scouted the 2014 draft. Who knows... Otherwise, acquiring Ibaka is a bit of a head-scratcher for Orlando :confused:

Damn!! Seeing a comment like this, I am betting u did not watch any Magic games last year. So please just stop.

[csrockerzero]

Damn!! Seeing a comment like this, I am betting u did not watch any Magic games last year. So please just stop.

For someone who is so overwhelmed with joy over this trade, you sure sound frustrated.

[Vinny407]

The Magic have needed a rim protector like Ibaka since Dwight left, and we landed a great one in Ibaka. I love Oladipo, but we drafted him 4th expecting a franchise superstar.....instead we got a solid 16ppg 5ast 5reb every night guy. We still have that in Evan Fournier. Fortunately for the Magic, we had enough young talent to use someone as trade bait........Gordon, Peyton, Vucevic, and Hezonja are still wearing the jersey next year. We also cleared another $7mil in cap space, adding to our already huge surplus of FA $$. So yes, Oladipo is a good player, but Orlando simply filled a desperate need, and they did it by adding a guy that can fill that need as good as anyone in the league. OKC got a good young player, and Orlando added a rim protector.....I love it.

[Cervantes]

The Magic have needed a rim protector like Ibaka since Dwight left, and we landed a great one in Ibaka. I love Oladipo, but we drafted him 4th expecting a franchise superstar.....instead we got a solid 16ppg 5ast 5reb every night guy. We still have that in Evan Fournier. Fortunately for the Magic, we had enough young talent to use someone as trade bait........Gordon, Peyton, Vucevic, and Hezonja are still wearing the jersey next year. We also cleared another $7mil in cap space, adding to our already huge surplus of FA $$. So yes, Oladipo is a good player, but Orlando simply filled a desperate need, and they did it by adding a guy that can fill that need as good as anyone in the league. OKC got a good young player, and Orlando added a rim protector.....I love it.

The only thing I'll say to this is Ibaka may be a rental when this is all said and done.

[Vinny407]

The only thing I'll say to this is Ibaka may be a rental when this is all said and done.

That's true. My delusional Magic fan brain likes to think he was brought in as a trade piece to package together for Jimmy Butler, which will then help draw Durant in to sign :flex:

[BBallCT]

I understand it, but i don't like it for either team. I do think a having a less ball dominant player at Magic well help some of those other guys develop - particularly herzonja but he was the only real scorer they have aside from harris who they also traded (presumably because they are both ineffective chuckers).

I love Ibaka's D and hustle and he played great against Spurs and Warriors. Not sold this was the right move for either team.

I'm also confused about the trade.

I'm actually ok with Orlando's, Ibaka adds experience, defense and stretch 4-ish to Vucevic's game. They needed to go in that direction, although I'm unclear how Gordon will fit (at the 3?). Hezonja can move right into the SG spot and it allows Payton to have more ball control for a potential 3rd year breakout.

OKC though is strange...Removing vet experience, unless they're targeting someone in FA to fill-in. Would Kanter start?

And it's a lot of ball handlers at the 1,2,3 spots, unless Oladipo plays as a 6th man (which I believe is the best role for him anyway).

[Magicpenny]

Ibaka will make a bigger impact with the Magic then Oladipo, that is a fact. SO would rather max contract Ibaka then Oladipo.

[Cervantes]

That's true. My delusional Magic fan brain likes to think he was brought in as a trade piece to package together for Jimmy Butler, which will then help draw Durant in to sign :flex:

You never know...my delusional Bulls fan brain has been in a frying pan the past few years, even more so the past 12 months...

[Ottomatic]

I love it for OKC, but Ibaka is still the best player in the deal as of now, it's not like Orlando got nothing. Ibaka/Gordon together can work fine in today's NBA.

[Andy5]

Damn!! Seeing a comment like this, I am betting u did not watch any Magic games last year. So please just stop.

Man, it's just like reading all the reports from mainstream media who probably haven't watched one Magic game since the Magic drafted Oladipo.

[hquiz]

Ersan! Finally on a good team assuming the Thunder pick up his option

Report: Thunder to guarantee Ersan Ilyasova’s contract – ProBasketballTalk (http://nba.nbcsports.com/2016/06/24/report-thunder-to-guarantee-ersan-ilyasovas-contract/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

[thor_rider08]

Good for Dipo! They got rid of harris and dipo both players needed to leave!
Hope they blow up now!

[Spooks]

The Magic will win more games this year. Vogel might even be a coach of the month.