Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[Chicagojk]

Should we view Ayo Dosunmu as high on Masai's wish list this summer? The Timberwolves could technically offer him and extension through June 30th -- 3yr/$52M (~$17M AAV).

I've forgotten some of the Sign and Trade rules, but I think the Wolves could do so with the Mavs and the TPE (~$21M), if they don't agree on an extension beforehand.

If the Mavs don't draft a Guard with their top pick, I could see Dosunmu thinking this is an attractive destination as a UFA. Is the full MLE enough to land him, with only a few teams having actual cap space to offer more?

Not that it's important, but I think there's a possible cultural connection there with the Nigeria background also. Dosunmu's father emigrated from there.

I would vote no, but I think this summer is tricky due to the toughness of the west, the current squad, new leadership, and the Mavs wanting to be a competitive team next year.

The new leadership is the big ?.   Mavs have long contracts with PJ and Gafford.   Decisions will need to be made soon on Lively, Marshall and Christie.    Lively is tricky and will probably be determined next offseason.   Mavs need to make decisions on Marshall and Christie soon.   I expect both are 15 million a year players.    I think things get crowded if you add a MLE type player this summer.   

Personally, I would prefer taking on a contract (hopefully for only a year and may be moveable at the trade deadline) to get another asset.  Could you do cam Johnson plus asset for Klay?  How about resign Middleton?  Maybe both could be small assets to move later.   

I think this is the direction I prefer.  Unless the Mavs decide to go aggressively in another direction.

So, two rookies, big contract with small asset, and smart signings. Maintaining flexibility throughout the rookie contract Flagg years is key for me. Allows you to be proactive if something pops. Otherwise you improve gradually until a big move presents itself. Ideally in year 3-4 of Flagg.