1. Buying or not buying: Amar’e Stoudemire

NOT BUYING

Feb 8, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks power forward Amar

Amar’e Stoudmire is an interesting case because you know what he can bring to the table, but do you want to pay him all that money. Plus he’s been so injured prone the last few years, is it worth the risk? I almost feel like he’s better suited off the bench to help solidify that unit for a team. If you have some good front court players in place, that’s where I would ship him. But I don’t think anyone is really BUYING into the idea of Stoudemire as something of value anymore.

2. Buying or not buying: Brook Lopez.

BUYING

Feb 11, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers center Roy Hibbert (55) guards Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Brooklyn defeats Indiana 89-84 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

At the beginning of the season, I wasn’t sold on Brook Lopez, but now that I’ve seen him play in person, I have to change my tune.  He outplayed Roy Hibbert last night, and that’s saying something seeing how Hibbert has been so strong defensively.  Lopez was hitting outside and inside shots. He grabbed some boards, and actually looked to be a good focal point of the offense without Deron Williams.  The Nets get back Deron Williams, and who knows if Lopez is as much a part of the offense. But I would BUY into the idea that Lopez is a good piece to add to your team.  Especially, if you need that big man presence.  He’s got my All Star vote last night with his play.

3. Buying or not buying: Vince Carter.

BUYING

Feb 6, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Vince Carter (25) shoots a basket late in the fourth quarter to put the Mavs up 5 against Portland Trail Blazers guard Wesley Matthews at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Didn’t think I would say this, but as a bench player, Vince Carter could be serviceable.  I don’t think he’s going to go out and get you that many points and high light reels like he used to. But for some leadership and veteran presence why not? I don’t think he’s ever been looked down upon that much other than the thought that his career just tailed off when he got injured.  He’s never been that big of a flyer anymore.  He was always looked to be the next Jordan, and that was some pressure.  But for some role player, he could be worth the buy.

4. Buying or not buying: Jameer Nelson.

NOT BUYING

February 8, 2013;Cleveland, OH USA: Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson (14) goes up for a layup as Cleveland Cavaliers power forward Marreese Speights (15) defends during the game at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Eric P. Mull-USA TODAY Sports

I don’t think Nelson is worth the buy.  He’s an adequate point guard, but doesn’t stand out as someone you want leading that team in that area.  Maybe as a back up guy, he could thrive and help a second unit.  But he’s not worth the money as a starting point guard.

5. Buying or not buying: Kyle Korver.

BUYING

Jan 25, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks shooting guard Kyle Korver (26) shoots over Boston Celtics point guard Avery Bradley (0) in overtime at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 123-111. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

You want to bring someone in to hit some three pointers, then buy Kyle Korver.  As a Pacer fan, I feel like he’s always burned the home team here.  He’s hit a big shot to take the lead or win the game at the end.  I would probably use him in a limited role because defensively he’s not that good.  But you bring him in the second unit, and get him some set shots, he’ll make them.

There’s also the idea of what to do with Danny Granger. I personally want him to stay a Pacer and retire as one.  So I probably put up blinders when it comes to moving him.  Plus he’s probably seen his best years, so who knows what you could do in trade value for him.  The Pacers could end up losing him if there’s no money to throw at him. but for now, Granger is here, and should be a productive member of the team.

But overall, this team is built the way that I think fans want it.  We don’t see that big superstar when all the stars are working together.  You have an All Star in Paul George, who should be on the list for Most Improved Player, and if it wasn’t for the usual antics of Lebron James and Kevin Durant, there could be some rumbling for Most Valuable Player with the way George has carried this team.

You have David West, who is right there at the same level as far as value to the team.  It’s going to be so interesting to see what the Pacers do with West come this summer.  He is one of those pieces who can’t move.  He’s such a leader for this team, and I feel like he wants to be here.  When he was a free agent, he could have signed with anyone, but he did come here and look at how well he’s worked out.

This is why I sit behind a computer and type out my thoughts on trade deadlines, I probably would make a horrible General Manager as I like the team the Pacers have put together.  You have to put that aside, and do what is best for this team.  I know this team might not be a pretty team that gets all the recognition, but they get wins.  They get a sense of community going with the players, and they feel like such a great team to watch once you sit down to watch.  What more could you ask for?