Jermaine O'Neal to the Mavs | LoPost's Blog

With all the trade talk blowing around like multiple mini-hurricanes with the occasional serious one hitting here and there, a deal that could solve two key problems for two problem-plagued teams has sprung to my spring-like mind.

Here's the idea:

Jermaine O'Neal of the Indiana Pacers to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Eric Dampier.

What about O'Neal's injury problems? The chance to play for a contender could be the motivation he needs to play through the pain.

What good does Dampier do the Pacers. None, unless his contract is due to expire soon in which case it would free up some much-needed cap space.

What good does O'Neal do the Mavs? First and foremost he's a legit post scorer which they do not have no matter what anyone affirms about Dirk Nowitzki or Jerry Stackhouse. And it was their lack of such a player that cost them the Warriors' series. Secondly, he's every bit the post defender, rebounder and shot-blocker that Dampier is. And the chance to play for a team in which he is not the focal point of the offense I think would be a relief to his injury-ravaged body.

Just a thought. With so many trades not happening, what else is there to talk about?

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February 13, 2008 04:09 PM ET

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umm like you said, what good does Dampier do for the Pacers? None

I rather get someone like Vince Carter than nobody for one of your star players.

jho

Total Comments (209)

February 16, 2008 01:27 PM ET

Well, I don't know if his salary's up soon but if it is, you've got a good crop of free agents coming available this offseason (Gilbert Arenas, Antawn Jamison, Ron Artest, Corey Maggette, etc.)