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February 17, 2009
Breaking down the trade market
SI.com
by Ian Thomsen
The deepening recession and a run of blockbuster deals in recent years have created speculation of another big movement of talent approaching the trading deadline Thursday. But don't count on it. The way the market is shaping up, there may be a number of minor money-moving deals but no blockbusters.
While there are a lot of sellers seeking to dump expensive contracts, there aren't nearly as many buyers.
...The Sellers
...• New Jersey Nets: The 32-year-old Vince Carter is on the books for $16.1 million next season and $17.5 million in 2010-11. There have been rumors of interest from San Antonio, Dallas and Houston, and there is reason to be skeptical in all cases. The Nets should be looking to move Carter because his value has improved with his return to health this season, he'll be winding down by the time the young Nets grow back into contenders, and the argument can be made that they're better served going into the tank this season to improve their draft position than by competing for the No. 8 spot in the playoffs. (And wouldn't Nets owner Bruce Ratner prefer to not pay all of that money over the years ahead?)
NoLandGrab: Bruce Ratner would especially prefer to not pay all of that money over the years ahead — but trading Carter and throwing in the towel will just further crimp the Nets' already-anemic attendance, off-setting at least a portion of any salary-dump savings.
Posted by eric at February 17, 2009 6:16 PM