With the 2016-2017 NBA Season starting in a few days, teams will be looking to complete their final opening night roster. Some teams look at other rosters for potential players. The Milwaukee Bucks have traded Michael Carter-Williams to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Tony Snell.
Both Carter-Williams and Snell were selected in the 2013 NBA Draft with the 11th and 20th pick respectively.
After a fantastic rookie season in which he averaged 16.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.3 assists and Rookie of the Year honors in 2014, MCW’s production has been on a decline. He was traded halfway through his sophomore season to the Milwaukee Bucks. This past season, he averaged a career low 11.5 points and missed the end of the season because of hip surgery.
On the other hand, Tony Snell has had a different career so far. Snell has never averaged more than 6.0 points a game in a limited role for the past three seasons. Last season, he fell out of Fred Hoiberg’s rotation by the end of the year.
Former 2013 1st round picks look to start with their new teams. (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
In my opinion, I am not a huge fan of this deal– mainly for the Bulls. The Chicago Bulls have been lacking in the shooting department and Carter-Williams is just another ball-handler that struggles to shoot the ball. The Bulls already have Rajon Rondo, Dwanye Wade and Jimmy Butler, who are going to be in the starting lineup. The three lack the shooting Chicago will desperately need if they want a shot at the playoffs.
Milwaukee has been trying to make a move for a scoring wing since they lost Khris Middleton with a torn hamstring. Snell will be the replacement as Middleton recovers from the injury. During his time with the Bulls, Tony Snell showed flashes of potential but struggled with his shot at times, which ultimately left him out of the rotation. If he can shoot well with his new team, the Bucks will definitely benefit from his skills.
This was an interesting trade for both sides. Both former 2013 first round picks have had their fair of troubles but look to improve on their new teams. Only time will tell if this can work out in their favor.
