Trading Places: Grading the Deal.

Mark Madsen invented the Jerk Dance before it was the Jerk Dance. As much as I would've liked Q-Rich to stay for sentimental reasons, the truth is, he wasn't likely going to contribute much. I feel for him, but alas the NBA is a business, and well, Dunleavy has been doing a fine job as a GM the past two offseasons(now if only he could coach). His latest caper was trading Quentin Richardson to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Sebastian Telfair, Craig Smith and Mark Madsen. Here are my initial grades: Sebastian Telfair - the most recognizable name in this trade, Bassy has never lived up to expectations. But you have to take into account, those expectations were pretty high. For him to still be in the league 6 seasons later says he is a useful player in the least. For anyone who watched Mike Taylor in Summer League play, you know very well he's not PG material, at least not yet. Bassy represents a definite upgrade at that position as he is a good passer who can actually run an offense. The best backup PG the Clips have had in a few years. He has a player option for '10-'11 which he will likely exercise. In actuality, it doesn't affect the Clips' 2010 cap space all that much. Grade: B- Craig Smith - the real coup of this deal. Smith is a bruiser, albeit undersized at 6'7". I believe this is the guy Dunleavy is probably most excited to acquire. He is a player in the mold of Brandon Bass/Glen Davis/Carl Landry who adds depth to the frontcourt. Also, an expiring contract. WIN-WIN in every sense of the word. Grade: A Mark Madsen - LA's favorite square dancing multi-lingual Mormon is back. Basically just a throw-in, he is not expected to make the team. Whether that means a buyout or trade remains to be seen, but if the Clips can save some cash as well as open a roster spot, it's another asset in the book. Grade: B For the Wolves: Quentin Richardson - Minny saves money in this deal in that they won't have to take on Bassy's player option for '10-'11. They could play Q, although I don't know much time or contribution he'll get or give, respectively. They could also buyout Q and save some more dough. I've read that this is an indication that David Kahn's talks with Rubio's people in Spain perhaps are going well. If he does come over, good for them. They're winners in this deal as well. Grade: A-