Chương 49: Chapter 49: The Transaction
Trade?" Dawson looked at Andrew, puzzled. Despite the team's three-game losing streak, they were still ranked second in the West, so a trade hadn't crossed his mind.
"Yes, we need to bring in a point guard, preferably one who can organize the offense and hit three-pointers. These last few games have exposed the glaring weakness in our guard rotation, and now with Love injured, the backcourt is under immense pressure," Andrew explained.
Dawson frowned, deep in thought. Typically, trades happened at two key points: during the draft or right before the trade deadline. But making moves this early in the season? The market would be tight, and teams would undoubtedly try to drive up the asking price.
"Is it that urgent?" Dawson asked after a moment's pause.
Andrew nodded firmly. "In the game against the Suns, they already targeted this weakness. If we don't address it soon, it'll significantly affect our record going forward."
Dawson nodded, acknowledging Andrew's keen understanding of the team's dynamics. He trusted Andrew's instincts; after all, the young coach had a remarkable track record.
"Alright," Dawson said, leaning back in his chair. "I'll start shopping around tomorrow and see if we can strike a deal."
Andrew let out a sigh of relief. Dawson, unlike Van Gundy, was quick and efficient when it came to decisions like these.
The very next afternoon, Dawson called Andrew back into his office.
"Take a look at these," Dawson said, handing Andrew a thick stack of documents. "I've spoken to a few general managers, and these are the potential trade offers I've gathered."
Andrew took the file and flipped through it, his eyes scanning the possibilities.
Miami Heat: Jason Williams + Earl Barron for Rafer Alston + Paul Millsap.
Andrew's eyebrows shot up. Jason Williams—"White Chocolate"—was a flashy playmaker who could pass and shoot, just the kind of veteran leadership the team needed. Plus, he had championship experience. But his $9 million contract, lasting until 2008, was a heavy burden. And asking for Millsap? That was a non-starter.
Sacramento Kings: Mike Bibby for Rafer Alston + Bonzi Wells + Bob Sura + 2007 first-round pick.
Now this was a tempting offer. Bibby was in his prime, one of the league's top point guards, and could certainly elevate the team. But the Kings wanted too much: Alston, Wells, and a valuable first-rounder. Not to mention, Bibby's bloated contract, which extended to 2009, would push the Rockets' salary cap into dangerous territory.
Andrew shook his head, continuing to sift through the other offers. None of them felt quite right. Either they wanted too much in return, or the contracts were impossible to justify.
As Andrew neared the end of the file, something caught his eye. The final trade proposal.
Milwaukee Bucks: Steve Blake + second-round pick for Vassilis Spanoulis + Kirk Snyder.
A slow grin spread across Andrew's face. Steve Blake might not be a superstar, but he was exactly what the Rockets needed. A scrappy, tough guard who could hit threes and organize the offense. Blake had earned the nickname "The Guard ATM" later in his career with the Lakers, but Andrew knew that this younger version still had plenty of gas in the tank.
Blake was averaging 8 points and 5 assists last season with the Trail Blazers, proving he could handle backup point guard duties. His toughness and court vision were just what the team needed. Plus, the second-round pick was a bonus—a golden opportunity for the Rockets to draft a young talent to develop.
"This is the one," Andrew said, tapping the paper.
"This?" Dawson glanced at the proposal. "You're sure about losing Spanoulis? He's in the rotation."
Andrew nodded. "It's fine. With the way we've been emphasizing the three-point shot, Luther Head is getting more minutes. Spanoulis has struggled to adapt. This move will give him a better opportunity to shine in Milwaukee."
Dawson leaned back, mulling over Andrew's words. "Alright, I'll get on it."
After leaving Dawson's office, Andrew called Spanoulis and Snyder to inform them of the impending trade. Their reactions were starkly different.
Spanoulis looked crestfallen, though Andrew could see the understanding in his eyes. It was tough, but this was part of the business.
Snyder, on the other hand, looked excited. A former first-round pick, Snyder had yet to find his rhythm in the NBA, but a fresh start with the Bucks could give him the chance he needed.
"Vassilis, don't be down. You'll have more opportunities with the Bucks," Andrew said, offering a reassuring smile.
Spanoulis nodded, though his expression remained heavy. Andrew felt a pang of empathy but knew this was the best decision for the team.
By the next afternoon, the trade was complete. Blake passed his physical, and soon after, he was in the Rockets' locker room, ready to get to work.
"Steve, you can use Vassilis' old locker," Thibodeau said as Andrew entered.
Blake, with his wiry build but toned arms, looked every bit the scrappy player Andrew remembered. He had the kind of resilience that never backed down from a challenge. Sure, he wasn't the seasoned Blake that Andrew would later know from his days with the Lakers, but there was a hunger in his eyes.
Andrew smiled to himself. This was going to be good.
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