MAVS NEWS:

[Chicagojk]

I'm still struggling with what I think is best regarding Gafford/PJ.  I see 3 versions of this:

1.  Extend and Keep both.  

This maximizes and retains talent, but doesn't give you much in the way of assets to go after a guard.


2.  Keep Gafford and trade PJ

Here you are more insulated from injuries to Lively or AD.  I think Gafford may be easier to retain on a more reasonable extension.  We still have plenty of players to play the 3/4 and Flagg slots more naturally to the starting 3 spot with some minutes at the four.  One risk is you may be selling low in PJ.


3.  Keep PJ and trade Gafford

PJ will finish games.  Gafford won't.  So, you keep the best player.  Between AD, Lively and presumably Jones, you have enough bodies who can play center (hopefully).  But, the starting lineup is awkward trying to make PJ, Flagg and AD work without forcing AD into the starting center role.


I think I can make a compelling argument for any of these, but what I don't know is how do you fill the guard hole in the roster.  I can suppose certain players 'should' be available to us in each scenario for what we have to offer.  But, what is ACTUALLY available to us goes a long way in helping me decide which is the better scenario.  The legality of trades also plays a role and to determine that, you have to know the plan with Kyrie.

I have been in all three thought process at different times.  LOL   

I think you are right the type of trade will play a big role.  As are the discussions with the player/agent.   It is going to take a lot of nuance and I am not sure this front office is good at this.  You need to be able to make sure the player knows they are wanted and be able to check in on them and just keep that conversation going.   I am a firm believer the Mavs need to act in a position of strength with both of these players.   If either player/agent says they aren't resigning, then this opens up a trade either this summer or at the deadline.   Maybe there is a win/win extension for both.    A good GM is one who at the same time makes sure the player is wanted/respected while also at the same time being pretty honest.   I am not sure Nico can do either of these.   

Gaff should be easier to resign and may be the cleaner fit.  He is a 20-25 player who goes all out for 4-5 minute segments.  He may say he wants starter money, but I think there could be a middle ground with team and player.   PJ's fit is a little more tricky and he is also a guy who expects to start and finish games.   But if we move him now, we may be looking in a year from now saying we wish we had a player like PJ.  Very tricky.  

I am beginning to wonder if Nico just plans to do a small upgrade at point and go into next offseason?  I wonder if he is just looking at a smaller upgrade like Lonzo or a minimum guy or two?   I don't think that is the best way, but I am also not sure if we are a real contender next year either.