| Suns Have Options With J.J. Authored by Casey OGrady - August 11, 2005 - 12:46 am
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Continue Negotiations with Atlanta:
The Suns have made it clear that they are in not interested in renegotiating the current trade with Atlanta, but if a third team were added to the mix to sweeten the deal the Suns might bite.
Trade with another Team:
Although no new trades have been discussed, this appears the most likely outcome. Possible suitors may include Toronto, New Orleans, Orlando, and Memphis.
Possible Toronto Trade:
Phoenix Trades:
Joe Johnson
Toronto Trades:
Morris Peterson
Loren Woods
Future Draft Pick
What the Suns Get:
They gain solid three-point shooter to replace Johnson, a big man, and a future first rounder.
What the Raptors Get:
They form a young and talented combo of Joe Johnson and Chris Bosh.
* Rafer Alston and Leandrinho Barbosa are also possible add-ons in this trade, but Alston’s attitude may scare off the Suns.
New Orleans Trade:
Phoenix Trades:
Joe Johnson
New Orleans Trades:
Speedy Claxton
David West
Future Draft Pick
What the Suns Get:
The Suns obtain a very solid point guard to backup Steve Nash and a bargain low post player.
What the Hornets Get:
They would now have top notch shooter to build their young team around.
*Adding P.J. Brown or Magloire to the trade has been rumored, but would be too much salary for the Suns to take in.
Orlando Trade:
Phoenix Trades:
Joe Johnson
Leandrinho Barbosa
Orlando Trades:
Hedo Turkoglu
Jameer Nelson
Future First Rounder
What the Suns Get:
They gain a young talented point guard and one of last year’s top sixth men.
What the Magic Get:
Joe Johnson could combine with Steve Francis to make a potent guard combo. The magic would also have to look towards getting rid of some of their nasty contracts.
Memphis Trade:
Phoenix Trades:
Joe Johnson
Leandrinho Barbosa
Memphis Trades:
Mike Miller
Future Draft Picks
What the Suns Get:
Mike Miller could replace Joe Johnson’s accurate shooting as he shot over 50% overall and over 40% from three-point range.
What the Grizzlies Get:
Joe Johnson would easily fill the void left by the loss of Bonzi Wells, and Barbosa could share time at point guard with Damon Stoudamire.
Resign Joe Johnson:
This would be a last resort as Sun’s owner Robert Sarver has made it clear he wants to keep the Suns under the luxury tax in upcoming years. Signing Joe Johnson would leave very little room to extend Amare’s contract, and a Marion trade may be destined for the future.
Let J.J. Go Free and Clear:
This is simply not an option. Sarver made it clear in a recent interview that if Johnson ever does sign an offer sheet, he will match it. He recognizes the financial risks of this and is therefore looking to gain something in a sign and trade first.
Please send any questions or comments to Casey at cogrady07@yahoo.com |
