Dallas Trades for Andrew Bogut
Earlier today, Dallas and Golden State came to terms on a deal that will send Andrew Bogut and a conditional second round pick to the Dallas Mavericks for, well, nothing. At least nothing we know of yet. Golden State made this move to create cap space for their new prize in Kevin Durant and can't afford to take on a player contract. Dallas will likely end up sending a future pick that may not even end up going to Golden State, but for now, nothing is coming out of the Mavs' pocket.
This move is much like the trade that Dallas made for Zaza Pachulia last season when DeAndre Jordan spurned them. Bogut brings things that Zaza did not, however, and those are rim protection and an aerial threat. Bogut averaged about 2 blocks per game, while Zaza only averaged .3. Bogut is about two inches taller than Pachulia and every once and a while can catch a lob and finish with authority, unlike Pachulia.
For his career, Bogut has averaged 10.3 points per game, 8.9 rebounds, and blocks 1.6 shots. His minutes were reduced last season with the Warriors as they opted to play a lot of small ball. His passing isn't as strong as Zaza's and neither is his mid range jumper, but Andrew's defense and rebounding will be a much needed upgrade. Bogut is 31 years old and has one year left on his deal in which he will earn $12.7 million. An easy contract for Dallas to take on.
Here's something you didn't see Zaza doing a whole lot of last season.
Bogut suffered a left knee injury in the 2016 NBA finals, but he is expected to make a full recovery and may even be available to play for his home Australian basketball team in the Olympics. Bogut also brings a couple of other intangible things into Dallas' lineup: championship pedigree and a relationship with new Maverick, Harrison Barnes.
I couldn't be more excited about this trade. I believe Bogut will be just as, if not more productive than Zaza Pachulia was for Dallas last season. Welcome to the Mavericks, Andrew! We can't wait to see what you can do.
