Michael Carter-Williams for Ben McLemore? Who Should the Kings Take?

Nov 25, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Michael Carter-Williams (5) during the game against the Sacramento Kings at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Sacramento won 129-118. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 25, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Michael Carter-Williams (5) during the game against the Sacramento Kings at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Sacramento won 129-118. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 2, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Ben McLemore (23) in the fourth quarter against the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 2, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Ben McLemore (23) in the fourth quarter against the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

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.

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