Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[omahen]

But author didn't take the Mavs into equation at all, it meets only the Lakers' needs—namely, a starting-caliber forward almost for free and freeing up a roster spot at no cost. It's actually a bargain for LAL, they won't find a player of his caliber on the market at that price.
If Masai had considered that fair value, he would have traded PJ a long time ago. Even in the worst case scenario—where PJ's value were to drop somehow—I don't think he would lose any sleep over a second-round pick and a very distant pick swap.

It could also be that the Mavs' front office truly appreciates and values PJ; perhaps they think he will help the team more than what the market currently offers. But as you said, things could drastically change in a heartbeat in the NBA, that's why I insist on the fact that trade value isn't static at all.

But if the deal would have more draft compensation included, than the author would only look at Mavs needs  PJs salary severly impacts the future flexibility of any team trading for him. In Lakers case specifically, they realistically lose the option to use MLE next season plus all the assets for him. 

Similar players to PJ like Hachimura or Collins, signed for considerably less money this season. Lower deals both in terms of per and total money. Aldama could be considered a similar player than PJ in terms of contribution. Mavs paid AJ Johnson (no value really) a fake first and two seconds for him - 3 SRPs in total. Watson, who is considerably younger with more upside potential, went for 1 FRP and 1 SRP. Lu Dort (arguably better player) went for 3 SRPs. 

It is possible that sometimes there is simply no middle ground and player has more value to a team he is on.