This dynasty trade was made in early-August in a 14-team 0.5ppr superflex league with unique settings. Starting lineups are 1-2-2-1-2Flex-1SFlex-3IDP-1K Some highlights of the scoring include 0.1 points per return yard, big play-big game bonuses as well as boosted passer scoring across the board.
The Approach
The initial focus of this trade was selling Josh Gordon after his suspension was cut to four games. After negotiations, I had decided to sell Gordon straight up for a projected late 2017 1st. Wanting to squeeze even a little bit more out of the other owner, I inquired about Tyler Lockett’s price. When my initial offer of Lockett for Duke Johnson and Rishard Matthews was considered close, I pounced.
The Trade
Gave Duke Johnson, Josh Gordon, 2017 3rd
Received Tyler Lockett, 2017 1st
This league gives equal points for return yards, rushing yards and receiving yards. Tyler Lockett finished 2015 as the WR8 thanks to 1,231 return yards. Even if he is able to break out as a prototypical wide receiver, his special team talent should force Seattle to keep Lockett as a primary return man. I was able to buy a player that holds more value in this specific league’s format than a typical league. Take the time to find these players and send out ‘ADP Offers.’ This means when you find a ‘cheat-code’ player like Lockett, send out offers for them based on any major site’s average draft position.
An undervalued part of this trade is the extra roster spot that was gained. This league is shallow for a league that includes defensive players in that there are only 25 roster spots in-season. During the offseason the rosters balloon to 35 to allow space for draft picks. This means that in a few weeks, I will have to cut nearly a third of my roster (and add a kicker). This roster spot will be extremely valuable.
Post-Trade Roster
Cam Newton, Drew Brees, Russell Wilson
Todd Gurley, Charles Sims, Jerick McKinnon, Jonathan Stewart, Dwayne Washington
Mike Evans, Brandin Cooks, Keenan Allen, Kevin White, Tyler Lockett, Jordan Matthews, Donte Moncrief, Sammie Coates, Davante Adams
Zach Ertz, Eric Ebron, Jimmy Graham, Maxx Williams, Vance McDonald
Luke Kuechly, Ryan Shazier, Malcolm Brown, Derron Lee
2017 1,1,2,2,2,4,5,5
2018 1,1,2,3,4,5
Takeaways
If you have to make roster cuts in preparation for the regular season, start making your moves to package up now. The closer you get to cut-down day, the harder it will be to convince other owners to take on the extra player. Two for one trades work best when involving mid-tier or high-tier players because they hold value on their own. Trying to package your bottom two players for an upgrade rarely works.
