Balderdash
Here’s Smith’s reasoning for the Rondo-Curry swap:
“The deal may seem lopsided, but Rondo may actually be a better fit as a point guard in Golden State. He is a pass-first floor general with great rebounding skills. Rondo is also a better defender. It’s possible that his presence provides more balance for the Warriors. Rajon is an immediate upgrade for ball distribution, grabbing boards and defending his position. The Bulls can include Grant and a possible draft pick in this trade since Curry carries the biggest value in this hypothetical scenario.” – Roje Smith
Yes, Rondo is a pass-first point guard more so than Curry. But does that make him a better fit? Would his presence “provide more balance”? Well, the Warriors have three starters averaging 20+ points and four starters averaging double figures. Their 117.3 points per game is the best mark in NBA. Their points per game differential of +12.6 is the highest in the league, and 4.6 points higher than second place Toronto. I think their offensive balance is fine, actually. Don’t you?
Then there’s this: “Rondo is also a better defender.” I’m sorry, but no. He’s not. Are you thinking of 2007 Rondo? Curry is averaging 1.7 steals per game this year, compared to Rondo’s 1.3. Their current defensive ratings sit at an identical 105. Curry has 1.6 defensive win shares so far this season, compared to 1.1 for Rondo. Neither player is a great defender, but you can’t make the case that Rondo is better. Even if you could, would that really be enough incentive for the Warriors to take him in exchange for their MVP? Again, that’s a fat no.
Slim Chance
To his credit, Smith admits that the likelihood of this trade happening is very low:
“The chances for Curry being traded to Chicago before the season ends are very low. However, it’s something that needs to happen and it can benefit both teams more than it appears on the surface.” – Roje Smith
Oh, darn! He came so close to backing off and hedging his bet. But he just couldn’t resist.
I’m not sure what else to say, other than…take it away, Principal of Knibb High School:
Unless the front office guys in Oakland are as experimental with marijuana as their coach Steve Kerr, I can tell you with 100% certainty that this trade proposal is complete malarkey. Go sit in the corner, Roje Smith, and think about what you’ve done. Thanks for the laugh, though. I needed it.
