Actually, if one were to pursue the whole JVG showcasing Francis to trade him theory, this game was perfect for that. National TV, excellent stats, smart play and leadership, and right before the all-star game (validating him being an all-star after people said he didn't deserve his spot). And of course, right before the trade deadline. I'm sure many trade deals are made during the break, so Steve Francis' performance tonight will be the last impression people have of him before the trade deadline. I think tonight his trade value went up significantly. Coincidence? or are the wheels of trade starting to turn...
I wouldn't trade Francis for Eric Snow or player of that caliber, but if that rumored Blazer deal is true, there is no problem from me for the trade to go through.
Actually, if one were to pursue the whole JVG showcasing Francis to trade him theory, this game was perfect for that. National TV, excellent stats, smart play and leadership, and right before the all-star game (validating him being an all-star after people said he didn't deserve his spot). And of course, right before the trade deadline. I'm sure many trade deals are made during the break, so Steve Francis' performance tonight will be the last impression people have of him before the trade deadline. I think tonight his trade value went up significantly. Coincidence? or are the wheels of trade starting to turn... This is not a very observant analysis. While it might look like he was showcasing him if you just look at the point total, that could not be farther from the truth. It is not like he told Francis to go jack up 30 shots to boost stats or as if he was the focal point of the offense, considering Mobley had more assist and Yao had more points and about twice as many shots. This was just a case of a man being in the zone and making the most of his attempts. I don't know if Francis is really on the block or not, but this was not a showcase game. It is possible Francis just happened to be in the zone at the right time for a team trying to trade him though. Also, NBA gm's are not as dumb as some would like to believe anyways. They are not going to trade more for a player a player based on one game when they have been able to watch him for 5 years anyways. They have already formed an opinion one way or the other prior to the game. Showcasing a star player is for fans, not gm's. You showcase rising stars and players who otherwise don't get alot of pt for gm's.