FA: Dragic 1yr/2.9M to CHI

[F Gump]

I’m at a hair over $157mm with 14 players (not Hardy yet) after this deal.  I’m including Terry dead money and SD likely incentives.  Kamm is listing the Apron at $156.9mm.  I think we could probably stop after a deal like this:

Bigs:  Wood, McGee, Maxi and Powell

Wings:  DFS, Bullock, Burks, Bertans, Green, Frank, Pinson and Hardy

Ball Handlers:  Luka, SD, S. Lee

That is easily narrowed down to 8 for the playoffs with the top 3 bigs, 3 wings and 2 ball handlers.  Even if Burks isn’t healthy now, he would be by the playoffs.  Adding him fits the defensive wing priority that has been discussed.  We are still a bit thin on self created shots but Burks does have some secondary creator ability.

I mentioned Sexton mainly because there are rumors surrounding him and such a deal with NY/DET got us so close to the Apron (and so easy to get below).  I’m with you in that is isn’t worth the time to do the mental exercise until we see something stronger that indicates this is a possibility (like a more reputable rumor on Sexton or the actual deal where Hardaway is outgoing).  I think the THJ two for one makes a ton of sense.  I wonder if the “price” of NY playing along is unprotecting the 2023 pick (which might help facilitate a bigger deal later with Powell and one of the mid-sized salaries).

I forgot Terry dead money. Thanks.

I know there have been Mav mentions on Sexton. He's certainly a creator, and skilled, but his history says it's only for himself, so there's that hangup. And yes, getting anywhere near the apron does open the door to SNT thoughts. Although, with the Mavs having to dodge the apron, the BY issue with Sexton would become a much bigger obstacle as a 3rd team to take DET salary becomes mandatory.