MAVS NEWS:

[omahen]

Re Kyrie - I think Mavs simply don't want to afford another player related fiasco. They can't afford Kyrie walk. They will try to make it look like how they take care of players that fit "the culture". Perhaps they negotiate a bit smaller than max deal, but I will be surprised if he doesn't sign an extension and just keeps his option. I don't expect a full max 5 year extension. I would expect higher money for less years or perhaps same annual money for 5 years.

Kyrie strong negotiating points: "I have been a good soldier, your far best player last season, I took a modest contract last time and I deserve to be rewarded. I demand respect." And if there is no agreement, he can go to threats: "You can't really do anything if I walk. Your house just falls apart without me and you can start a rebuild (after claiming Luka trade was a win now move). Also, good luck signing any significant FA again, after yet another media fiasco you will face after I walk disgruntled. "

Mavs strong negotiating points: "You are injured and we can't pay you a lot since we don't know when you come back and how you will look like." Threats: "good luck finding a good offer while you are injured."

Despite his injury, I think Kyrie still has a stronger position. Since Kyrie has been unpredictable in the past, I wouldn't put it as completely unsurprising if he would just leave, even for less money. Or force an extend and trade option to a team of his choosing. For Mavs - well, it is a whole they dug for themselves with their actions.