Michael Carter-Williams for Ben McLemore? Who Should the Kings Take?
By Tyler Watts
Summary and Conclusion
Let us review the nuggets we have picked up so far. Ben McLemore is the more efficient offensive player, but Michael Carter-Williams produces more offensive statistics. Carter-Williams defensive statistical production is greater as well. The advanced metrics rate McLemore as the better offensive player and Carter-Williams as the better defensive player. VORP, also, rates Carter-Williams as the better player, but win shares per 48 minutes prefers McLemore. McLemore has a definite advantage in being healthier and staying on the court.
So, which side of the trade should the Kings want to own?
I believe the Kings made the correct choice in keeping Ben McLemore. Carter-Williams is a year plus older, is a significantly worse offensive player, and that injury history scares me. Ben McLemore is 23 years old and by no means a finished product. If the Kings can improve his defense this season, he will improve his advanced metrics and rocket past Carter-Williams in that area.
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There is a chance the Kings still make this trade and if they can get the Bucks to improve their offer it might be worth the Kings while, but straight up I would prefer to have Ben McLemore to Michael Carter-Williams if I am the Sacramento Kings.