Trade & FA 2024-25:

[cow]

I think trading a center is the best way of recalibrating the team. Interestingly, I think the best trading partner are the Lakers (so long as Nico isn't negotiating) because they once again find themselves at the mercy of having to cater to a superstar -- this time Luka.

Yes, he wants a pick and roll center, but I really think a familiar face would endear him to the team in his extention off-season.

So I want the Mark Williams deal for Lively. I think Lively gets the Mavs more from the Lakers than either Gafford or Lively does anywhere else.

Lively for Knect, 2026 and 2028 swaps and 2031 unprotected

You then use some of that to get a true PG.  And I would really, seriously look into Morant while his value is low. I know some here are non-plussed on him, but I think the leadership of Kyrie, AD and the beyond his years maturity of Flagg could mitigate any possible shenanigans where Ja was the alpha in Memphis.

Klay, Caleb, PJ and the swaps for Morant

I'm just going to keep hitting the table for a playmaker like Ja who could facilitate a PnR with a number of combos.

Ja, B.Williams, Exum
Kyrie, Christie, Hardy
Flagg, Naji, Knect
AD, OMax
Gafford, K. Jones, Powell

That's the most versatile team in the league.

I'd do that Laker deal.  Not sure they would.  Ja's value might be low, but I doubt it is that low.