Did Someone Say Protection?
The biggest issue with trading Noel to the Mavericks is deciding what protections should be placed on the Mavericks’ own first pick. The Mavericks would be wise to impose some level to avoid giving away too much in the deal. As one of the worst teams in the NBA, the Mavericks realize they could land the top pick in what is likely a very talented group of young prospects.
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Perhaps the compromise imposes a top three protection in 2017, which if not conveyed could become an unprotected 2018 first round pick. That would protect the pick this year, and would give them time to improve significantly next season.
One model the Philadelphia 76ers would be wise to point to is the trade negotiated with the Sacramento Kings. In that deal, the 76ers sought trade swaps initially, and outright picks later.
The Mavericks might insist upon a first round pick that is a top five protected 2017 pick, that can turn into a top three protected 2018 pick, and will become an unprotected 2019 pick if it doesn’t convey in the either of the previous two seasons. The Sixers should push for an unprotected 2018 first round pick, but should be willing to accept the Mavericks’ first round pick with two seasons worth of protection.
With the Mavericks struggles, the teams could haggle over protections which could be diluted by tossing the Mavericks second round pick into the mix. As a matter of fact, the 76ers could insist upon swap rights which would lessen the blow to the Mavericks by ensuring both teams walk out of the draft with a first round pick.