(07-28-2021, 08:45 AM)mvossman Wrote: Unfortunately, I think it's the opposite. Sixers and Lakers would have to go through a lot of hoops to get him in. We already saw a report that the Pelicans might be backing off. I'm afraid if the mavs are willing to pay the price, they will get him.
There is a very good chance that Ball wants to be a point guard (he is much better suited to secondary play maker) in which he will probably not want to play second fiddle to Luka.
I think Lowry is far better player than Ball in the next 3 year window. Ball was never on a winning team, is young and is still sort of growing up. Part of this is also, as you said, likely the desire to be important, to have ball in hands and so on. Sure he can develop, but I rather take someone who already got this. Plus I really think Mavs need a vet with respect. Someone, who will be able to hold both Luka and KP accountable (I don't think Barea or similar "washed up" vet solves that). Sure it is very likely Ball will be better than Lowry in 5 years, perhaps sooner. But I think Mavs are looking at next 1-3 years.
As for 2 or 3 year deal some are so worried. First of all, the first priority is to actually get someone. And if Mavs think Lowry is the man, 2 or 3 year deal is not a question at all. If he wants three years and that is his bottom line, so be it. Further, Mavs next window, unless a superstar trade falls out of the blue, is next 3 years. Till 2024, when KP contract expires. So if nothing big comes along until then, Mavs will have all their draft assets available for trade after 2023 draft with KP, Lowry and THJ expiring deals, 2020 rookies and perhaps 22 rookie, Brunson and DFS. If even then nothing big comes along, Mavs have almost 2 max slots in 2024. The only risk is if Lowry completely falls off the cliff and becomes a Horford level overpaid. But I am hopeful he stays more CP3 level useful.