Our friends at NESN.com are the latest (Sactown Royalty and CelticsBlog) to jump on the Andres Nocioni-to-Boston trade bandwagon.
For those unfamiliar with the 29-year old, 6-7, 220lb forward, Nocioni has averaged 11.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg for his career. According to DraftExpress, he's a physical player, a hustle guy who can shoot threes and score around the basket. So what's the problem? His salary, for starters. Here's the breakdown, according to HoopsWorld:
- 2009/10 - $7.5 million
- 2010/11 - $6.85 million
- 2011/12 - $6.65 million
If the Kings wanted to shed his salary, they could accept the expiring contracts of Tony Allen, Brian Scalabrine and J.R. Giddens or Bill Walker.
With the Celtics over the cap, Nocioni's $6 million salary is doubled for Wyc and Co. because of the dollar-for-dollar luxury tax.
Don't forget they have to extend Rajon Rondo and either resign Ray Allen or find his replacement.
Nocioni is a decent player who could help them win, but I can't imagine Danny Ainge asking the owners to shell out $24 million for his services through 2012.
Even if money is no obstacle, how the hell does Doc find minutes for Nocioni? Even if he takes all of Glen Davis' time, you're talking about 10-15 minutes per game - tops. Check the pie charts, there's no room for him on the roster. Unless, BBD is part of the deal, but that changes the equation altogether.