Big Guys get hurt; we need to keep Joel.
Reading Blazers Edge, listening to sportstalk radio and listening faithfully to Blazer-related podcasts I view with extraordinary concern any talk that Pryzbilla (or his contract) is suitable trade-bait.
Oden isn't the problem; Big Guys get hurt.
Games played by:
Bynum (LA) 2005-10 46, 82, 35, 50, 65
Mbenga (LA) 2005-10 21, 16, 26, 23, 49
Fesenko (UT) 2007-10 9, 21, 49
Okur (UT) 2005-10 82, 82, 80, 72, 73
Petro (DEN) 2005-10 72, 57, 27, 22, 36
Andersen (DEN) 2005-10 67, 32, 5, 71, 76
Dampier (DAL) 2005-10 82, 76, 72, 80, 55
Haywood (DAL) 2005-10 77, 80, 6, 28, 49
Ming (HOU) 2005-10 57, 48, 55, 77, 0
My analysis doesn't cover all the Centers in the NBA but what I see on a spot-basis indicates relatively few compete in 85% or more games. With 15 roster spots Portland should carry 3 centers. My guess is Joel will miss at least part of next season, and I know he has an option this year, but I'd sign him for another 2 years. We need Greg, Marcus AND Joel.
And if not Joel, who could the Blazers REASONABLY expect to obtain at the same or less cost to position us for a championship run over the next 3 years when Brando and Lamarcus peak?
We need all three centers. Blazers should NOT trade Joel; he's not expendable.