Trade & FA 2024-25:

[SleepingHero]

I personally don't like PJ as a 3. I think he's a 4, or you don't want him on the team, unless you think he'll be happy coming off the bench. I kind of feel like PJ would be gone in any deal for Markkanen, anyway, but maybe not. 

As to who I'd prefer between Markkanen and Washington, I'm not sure. Washington is a GREAT defender, and I believe his offensive potential is much better than what he has shown. But obviously, Markkanen is a huge improvement right away, offensively. I'm just not sure if I like the trade off, especially given the cost. It's worth considering, that's for sure.

Lauri has the size of a 4 but the skillset of a 2. This isn't a PJ vs Lauri discussion but more of Mavs adding a 7ft shooting guard. PJ will still be in his regular role on offense and will still guard the best guy on the floor. Lauri has enough size to play the 5 and enough mobility to play the 3. 

Only issue is that this doesn't fix the POA defender problem. DJJ theoretically could still be retained, but perhaps the Mavs don't care that much if they are adding an offensive force like Lauri.