(07-16-2026, 10:59 AM)Smitty Wrote: I guess it depends on how you define contender. You are picking out the best player on the eventual Champs roster. I don't think the OP has the same definition of contention. LeBron, Luka, Wemby and many more have been on 'contenders' on their rookie deal. Making it to the Conference Finals/Finals is contending IMO.
I would argue LeBron and Luka are cautionary tales. Those franchises rushed their rebuilds and never won with their superstars (unless they returned years later). Wemby is a unique situation. That org had the #11 pick and then a generational #1 pick (similar to Mavs), but then they shamelessly tanked for two more seasons and got the #4 pick and the #2 pick (not an option for the Mavs). They also had a bundle of picks they could use for a big trade (something else the Mavs don't have).
I'm not saying its impossible for this team to be contending during Flagg first contract. I'm simply saying I don't think the FO should be operating under the mindset that it is their best window to compete.
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