MAVS NEWS:

[omahen]

Nothing going on except the Clippers stuff.  I saw Stein mentioned that the Lakers could have interest in Wiggins now that Luka has been extended.  So I was wondering, without considering salary which players would you prefer over PJ on this Mavs teams (again without factoring in salaries)

Andrew Wiggins
Michael Porter Junior
Cam Johnson
Keegan Murray
Brandon Ingram

I think Mavs would not really need any of these guys, they should target more PG/SG type. I would assume PF/SF is covered by Davis, Flagg and Klay while Naji and Martin can be adequate replacements. If I would be looking for improvement, I would be looking for someone that can play with Kyrie while Russell and Christie take back-up roles. A good defender that can create to an extent or a really good offensive player. I guess teams are more or less set at this stage and I think it is unlikely someone will make a bigger move before at least couple of months into the season. That is why it is difficult to speak about specific names. When thinking about prototypes, I could see someone like Derrick White as a perfect piece for that first Mavs window. Or Nembhard or Mathurin from Pacers. 

As for Lakers, I was a bit surprised by this Stein news. Its not like there was any doubt Luka would sign an extension with Lakers. I think it might have more to do with how Luka is currently playing at Eurobasket, as he is looking as the best player currently. If you have the best player, it really doesn't make much sense for a wait and see approach. But similar as what I said in the Mavs paragraph - I doubt any team would be willing to make a move at this stage, unless you give them an offer they can't decline (overpay). I guess anyone will have more clarity closer to the TDL. 

Best version of Wiggins could make a lot of sense next to Luka/Reaves (best version of Wiggins has not been around for a couple of seasons), but I would not give up both Rui and a FRP for him. If Miami would be willing to do a deal for one of those assets, I would pull a trigger. But it would be very difficult to make a deal as both teams can't really take more money back. For example, Vando, Maxi and Vincent is 34 mil (add FRP as sweetener). Lakers would need three players back. Wiggins is at 28 mil, so there is barely enough space for two vet min guys. They would likely still need to involve third team to take one of those contracts, which would cost assets Lakers don't really have. An interesting option could be Rui, Vincent and Kleber (40 mil of expiring) for Wiggins, Fontecchio and Larsson (38.5 mil, 28 mil is not expiring). Doesn't look like Miami is motivated by any of these ideas.