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

[Winter]

I don't think it's hard to see that this is their most desperate need.  Not only because Kyrie is going to be out for a good part of next season, but even after he's back they need a competent backup PG.  The best thing is they're not even paying desperation prices.  tpMLE is cheap for Russell.  It's also a very tradeable contract if they decide they don't need him down the line.  I'm searching for a downside, honestly.

Russell has had defensive lapses. In LA Reddick benched him partly because of that and partly because he went cold from the field. He's not without warts.

However, he can score most nights. Sometimes with a vengeance. He will force defenses to guard out there... maybe open the court a little with him and Klay on the perimeter. The real trick for Kidd will be to stay on top of Russell's decision making. If the Mavs can get Exum, they can maybe make an adjustment if Russell is having a bad game... but I'm guessing there will be games when he goes all dinwiddie on us.