Nerlens Noel has garnered comparisons to defensive stalwart Tyson Chandler for his rebounding and defensive abilities but injuries have stalled his progression. Following a midseason trade from the 76ers to the Mavericks, Noel posted 8.5 PPG and 6.8 RPG in 22 games. However, the 23-year-old will need several additional years to hone his game before he’s in that class, Eddie Sefko of Dallas Morning News opines.
Noel has shown glimpses of elite talent in his three NBA seasons but has generally been inconsistent. Sefko acknowledges that if the Mavericks envision a longterm future with Noel as a fixture, he will need two-to-three years of seasoning before he possibly reaches his potential. For his part, Noel, a restricted free agent, expressed his desire to remain in Dallas.
“I love Dallas,” Noel said last month (via The Sporting News). “In my short time here, I’ve really enjoyed it. With the pieces that we have, and the opportunities we’ll be seeing in the near future, I think there’s a lot to be excited for.”
Below are are additional Mavericks notes:
- In a separate piece, Sefko examines the possibility of the Mavericks pursuing Lakers point guard D’Angelo Russell. The Lakers own the second overall pick in the NBA Draft and if they draft UCLA standout Lonzo Ball, having two point guards may be redundant for the Lakers. If Dallas fails to draft a solid point guard, Sefko believes Dallas will call Los Angeles to discuss Russell but the price to acquire a second overall pick from two seasons ago will likely be astronomical.
- Sefko further delved into the Mavericks’ point guard situation, stating emphatically that the team needs to acquire someone who can shoot. The aforementioned Russell fits the mold as the 21-year-old has averaged 14.3 PPG in his two NBA seasons. In-house options like Devin Harris, Yogi Ferrell, and J.J. Barea are also strong options for Dallas but a more established option makes sense.
The price to get Russell is taking on Deng and/or Mozgov. The Lakers only have leverage if a team will not take one or both. Once Ball is drafted the price goes down more. Sign and Trade Noel plus their 1st for Russell and Mozgov.
I like the idea but Cuban didnt trade for Noel to just see him leave, he knows what a defensive anchor can deliver. Cant see that trade happening but if thats the case they can draft Zach Collins to be the center and take on Russell
Cuban didn’t give up much for Noel to begin with. I have them giving up their 2017 draft pick.
If you’re looking at Noel v Mozgov per 36 since both are more of a role player roll under 25 mins per game. For the money, Mozgov would be more palatable esp if it also brings Russell.
Blocks 2.0 vs 1.7
Pts 13.1 vs 13.5
TRB 9.8 each
Steals 2.1 vs 0.6 <where Noel surpasses Mozgov obv
And Mozgov is a better overall shooter – +12% FT
True I like it
Thats fine except Noel is 23 years old and only going to improve!! No way in hell the Mavs do that deal!
If I’m Rob Pelinka and that offer comes across my desk I take it in a heartbeat. Noel & 1st for Russell and Mozgov. All day.
Its good for both squads imo
That’s a terrible trade for Dallas..
No Russell is a good player and Mozgov is decent and wouldn’t hamper them long term since they don’t plan on competitions for a title in the next 2 years. Not too many long term expensive contracts so they can afford him easily.
Any Mavs fan can see thats a terrible trade for Dallas and no way it gets done!
So the Lakers can get who with the Mavs pick? Maybe Markannen as a shooter to play with Ball? Ingram is going to be a good playmaker himself and Randle can also create plays. The Mavs def solve their point guard issue, Russell should easily be the starter on the Mavs but Mozgov and Dirk would be a terrible fit
Really believe Noel will be a top 5 center in the future. He fits the mold of hybrid big man the NBA is targeting now. He can guard the pick and roll, block shots, switch and if he gets a mid range he will be a force.
Top 5 players in 2020
1. Karl Anthony Towns
2. Russell Westbrook
3. Lebron James
4. Kyrie Irving
5. Josh Jackson
Ha!
Kawhi has to be in there come on. Also, KAT is better than those guys?? Doubt it. Unless he puts up games like Wilt his numbers won’t be better.
KAT is a legit perimeter shooter and I think his shooting will make him an unstoppable force. Maybe throw Porzingis in the mix also, Jackson will be electrifying.
Unibrow?
I don’t see Noel ever becoming a top 5 center…Towns, Cousins, Davis, Jordan, Nurkic, Lopez, Whiteside…all better.
Lopez…