FanShot

Here's how the Blazers get Billups .....

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Assuming Denver cannot find a better offer for Anthony, accepts the 4 Team deal with the Nets, Bobcats and Jazz, and then are willing to go out and get something for Billups (I know, that's a lot of assumptions) ....... Denver probably isn't interested in getting Miller back, but New Jersey is said to be looking for a veteran point guard to replace Harris, and the Blazers have the young assets to offer to Denver for Billups. Basically adding on to the 4 way trade already agreed to, although I believe it could actually stand on its own as a separate trade: New Jersey gets Miller, sends Murphy to Denver. Portland gets Billups, sends Miller to New Jersey and Bayless/Fernandez to Denver (and maybe a first round pick) Denver sends Billups to Portland, gets Murphy, Bayless, Fernandez (and maybe Portlands' first round pick) I think New Jersey would do this in a heart beat. Denver??? They turn Billups' 2 year $27+ million contract into Murphy's 1 year $12 million contract, and get two good young players still in their rookie contracts - which is what they said they wanted. Since the trade machine doesn't allow a five team trade - I cut Charlotte out of the trade and just show Harris going to Utah. However, the trade works with Charlotte getting Harris - Diaw to Utah. The trade also doesn't show any of the picks Denver is receiving on the original trade - which I'm not sure we've heard how many the Nuggets are actually getting, and who from.