Salary Cap Research: Second-Round Picks as Currency
I analyze the recent trend of teams trading more second-round draft picks than ever, when this pattern emerged, and its implications for team-building.
Earlier this week, the Phoenix Suns traded Josh Okogie and three second-round picks to the Charlotte Hornets for Nick Richards and one second-round pick. As I posted my quick analysis on it, I made a point that has become common among recent trades.
After losing a net of two second-round picks, the Suns are left with just one to trade over the next seven drafts. The Lakers and Warriors are in a similar position with their recent acquisitions of Dorian Finney-Smith and Dennis Schroder, respectively, leaving both teams with two second-round selections. It seems like for many teams, second-round picks are being used primarily as trade chips now.