Trade & FA 2025-26: Free Agency Starts 5pm CST/6pm EST

[SleepingHero]

FWIW, I asked Google AI who Dallas would most likely trade for and what the package would be.  The answer was Coby White.  The package was PJ/Hardy/2031 First.

White is UFA in a year and not extendable at a number he'd accept.  So, Dallas is taking the risk here that Chicago doesn't want to take.  Even if Chicago keeps White, the AI answer pointed out they may not want to commit to big money for both Giddey and White (so one or the other and Giddey gets paid this summer).  

I think if Dallas wants to be serious about contending, it has to have a second creator.  It can't just a fringe guy who can hold down the fort for Kyrie.  The playoffs have shown you have to have someone who can get his own shot late in a playoff game when Kyrie is doubled (or prevent that double from coming because everyone else on the floor is too good).  PJ and a first is a lot to give up for someone who could walk.  But, moving PJ helps the roster make more sense.  You keep your center depth and keep AD at his preferred spot.  Flagg can move to PF when AD is out and you still have plenty of guys who can play the three between Naji, Klay and Martin.  

There is a $7mm spread between incoming and outgoing salary.  When you add back a minimum, you are under the second apron using Kyrie's current number.  At that point, you can focus on the extension.  You'll need the number to come in lower in 26/27 because the roster will get very expensive when you resign White.  You get some help when Klay goes away in 27/28, but that is also the year Lively gets paid.  Still, White with the rest of what is here makes this a serious contender.  Kyrie, White, Flagg, AD and Gafford/Lively backed up by Christie, Klay/Martin, Naji and Gafford/Lively is stout.  You'll have some issues with back court D, but you'll have a fantastic back line defense when people get around Kyrie or White.  Additionally, you will probably keep one of them on the floor at all times.  So, that is only 12-16 minutes of overlap.  More often than not, it will be one of them with Christie or Klay more than it will be Kyrie and White together.  

PJ and that first is pretty expensive for someone who can walk.  But, this is the level of player we need and we aren't the only team that needs what he offers.  I think it is smarter to take the risk and get what you need rather than taking a lesser player and hoping you have enough.

I understand the logic behind targeting Coby White. I actually agree he'd be a fantastic get. 

But in no way, shape, or form is he worth both PJ and a first. I'd argue he's not even worth either of those things given his contract situation.

PJ+Hardy+1st is the beginnings of a deal for an all-star level guy (say Jrue Holiday).