Two years ago I would have said heck yes but I think Batum might be getting a bit long in the tooth in dog years.
If Rudy was in favor of this trade I would be too, though I have not followed Batum closely and it is a surprise to me to hear the negative opinions of his recent game. I think they ought to evaluate why that happened and if it can be turned around. The upside is potentially huge, not just because Batum once had skills and might still have them, but also for the positives of bringing in a guy who speaks Rudy's language. The downside is that we essentially use up a pick that doesn't pan out. Happens all the time.
Not asking him to be GM. I'm just saying that Rudy's opinion would weigh heavily into my decision. I wouldn't put it that way to Rudy, though.Should never let players be GM... I'd ask his opinion of Nic but that is about it.
Have Rudy talk to him this month to gauge his attitude and see if there is a reason for the slump. At 26 Batum should be at the top of his game. He used to be a deadly shooter. Might be worth exploring a bit. But I don't know if I'd offer the #12. This is a salary dump of a slumping player. I'd offer Portland a couple of seconds or nothing better than a lottery protected 1st.Batum could be a good fit, but he could also be a disaster. He is fairly inconsistent and seems to have regressed the past two seasons, so who knows if his heart is still in the game or not. I'd hope that the FO would play it safe/smart and not make the trade.
Have Rudy talk to him this month to gauge his attitude and see if there is a reason for the slump. At 26 Batum should be at the top of his game. He used to be a deadly shooter. Might be worth exploring a bit. But I don't know if I'd offer the #12. This is a salary dump of a slumping player. I'd offer Portland a couple of seconds or nothing better than a lottery protected 1st.
Would you rather have a Batum, Burks or Trey?