FanPost

Shawn Marion is the wing we're looking for

Shawn Marion (The Matrix) wants another ring and says it's not about the money. He's already played 15 NBA seasons but still looks strong and is finding the range again from 3. His three-point percentage has been improving every year over the last 3 years (shot 35.8% from deep last season). Marion is a legitimate backup SF with loads of playoff experience who could allow Batum to slide to SG for stretches. He could also play some backup PF alongside either Lopez or Aldridge. Wouldn't you love to see a lineup of Lillard, Mathews, Batum, Marion, and Aldridge running the floor? Marion's defense, versatility, and playoff experience seems like a great fit for what the Blazers are trying to achieve this offseason. The recent article about wing defense by Sam Tongue illustrates the importance of having solid defensive chops on the wings to help create scoring opportunities. Marion brings this and more to the table.

Marion has at least 2 good years left, and maybe 3. He shoots a good percentage from the floor (48.5%), scores and rebounds well (10.4 pts, 6.5 reb in 32 min), is a good free throw shooter (78.5%), durability has been good (played 76 games last season), and still gets over a steal per game (1.2). What's not to like? Says he likes Dallas under the right circumstances, but wants a ring more. I'm don't think there's a wing player out there better than Marion who could be had for the mid-level exception. Prove me wrong.