Arvydas Sabonis

[Charlie Brown]

Out of all the centers out there (NBA and non-NBA), I think the one center that can fit best into the Nellie system is Arvydas Sabonis. He's another big man that can hit the 3, but also provides a body to muscle Shaq and the other big men in the league. He's a bit slow, but I think he's good for about 25 minutes a game. I know his name's been mentioned here and there by the Mavs a couple times and wondering what everyone's thoughts on this guy was.

I know the reason why we can't sign him is that Portland still has his rights and can match any contract for him. If that's the case, would any of you be in favor of trading Nick Van Exel and Tariq Abdul Wahad for Damon Stoudamire and Arvydas Sabonis.

I think the Mavs would like this, because they get a very capable backup in Stoudamire, not as good as Nick, but someone that's speedy and can run an offense. Sabonis would move Raef to the 4 and Dirk to the 3, which allows Nelson to use Finley at the 2 instead of going to a small lineup.

For the Blazers, this provides them with a more credible point guard to run their high octane offense and they get rid of Stoudamire's huge contract. Plus, they'd rather get something than nothing for Sabonis who won't return to the Blazers.

Thoughts?