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Inside the psyche of Bledsoe, and an Insane Trade that just might work.




The Eric Blesdoe situation has already gone beyond anything that can be considered "reasonable". Thus. I'm not going to reiterate any of the obvious, but focus on one point:

Motivation beyond money

If this was purely about cash, I think its resolution would've been achieved weeks ago. So it's time to delve into the (apparently) fragile psyche of Eric Bledsoe:

1) Blesdoe, above all, seems to want "respect", as we believe to be represented as a cash figure, but I think it is as an all -star combo guard. While he believes he has proven himself, he wants the opportunity further prove himself by one of the few "official" guiding measures of the individual player's achievements. In Phoenix, despite his assistance to the team, he still feels overshadowed by someone who plays virtually the same position, and is further credited as the face of the franchise. He doesn't feel as if his substantial contributions are nearly as recognized as that of a certain Dragon whom is beloved by not just the franchise, but the fans. Additionally, he did not seem to learn from the Dragon: Goran could've pouted after being bypassed as an All-Star, but instead was motivated to continue his play, and was rewarded by the respect of the MIP award, and Third Team All-NBA. I did not (and still don't) see this level of understanding from Blesdoe. Did he even give kudos to Dragic for this, or did he merely keep quiet and seemingly pout?

2) Part and parcel with respect comes exposure. He wants to receive more NATIONAL accolades for his accomplishment. Thus far, all he has been seen is as backup to Chris Paul, and the guy playing second fiddle to Goran Dragic. Despite the numbers that have shown his presence on the court were of vital interest to the Suns none of this matters as Dragic DID carry the team to a record over .500. Now, does exposure carry more weight in the endorsement? Absolutely. But I don't think that's the reason for all the strangeness taking place. I think it's merely about attention. The strange circus shots we saw at the end of the season that arguably cost the Suns a playoff berth are just a manifestation of this: look like a hero, make the SportsCenter top 10 highlights list, and show that your importance is at least equal, if not MORE than that of the Dragic.

3) The final component is vital to ALL NBA players, but in this case, seems to be decentralized: winning. I cannot tell if Blesdoe actively cares about winning a basketball game if his mark is not cemented upon it. I don't see man of little ego, understanding a 2 point, 12 assist game is far more valuable to the Suns than inconsistent drives to the basket.

I'm gonna chalk all of this up to an NBA player who is still 23 and can't see the forest for the trees, and recognize that accompanying any large contract requires performance...and given his age, he's eligible for at least one more big payday.

Thus....let's sign-and-trade for someone without these issues. Nobody has brought up the idea of contacting Portland with this:

Blesdoe signs 4 for 60.

Portland gets:

-Blesdoe

-The highest of the 2016 Second round picks (The Fakers pick should be up there, and they could easily use it as a stash player)

Suns get:

-Nicholas Batum

-Steve Blake

I'm no capologist, but this seems like it would work from that standpoint.

I think Portland might consider it, as Lillard/Blesdoe backcourt is enticing, and offers immediate insurance if Lillard has any injury issues, or comes to a head when his contract is up. Blesdoe's numbers stay the same , and the NBA loves to pick three-headed monsters to an All-Star team. Additionally, he gets his ego stroked just by being in the presence of LMA and Lillard...he'll be SEEN. Of course, none of that matters to us following said deal ;)

The Suns get Batum...and a 14/7/5 guy starting at the 2 gets my attention on THIS team.

Obviously, I can't say this is Blesdoe's mindframe....it's all supposition on observation. And I wouldn't be surprised if Portland laughed as they hung up on McD.....but I don't see a reason not to make the phone call.