2021 FREE AGENCY: Markkanen wants out of CHI | DAL "definitely interested"

[Mavs2021]

I'm not even arguing the Lowry is THE thing to do. I don't know that. But the Mavs search for a secondary playmaker who can play defense isn't new. It predates Chris Paul's success with the Suns. 




I think you're saying that you like Ball, but the above is a bit confusing. Can we get him? Would he be willing to be secondary to Luka?




I'd be open to this, but does he start next to Luka and give you the defense and toughness that we're looking for?

My problem with Lowry and THJ is simply the projected salaries/contracts and that they would have absolutely no re-trade value. Imho this team needs to look at contracts/players that have upside and re-trade value, because we not only need to add significant talent, but talent that can grow and get better alongside Luka. We also have to account for the Unicorn´s injury history, so we have at least some financial flexibility and replacements options that have more upside than Powell/WCS, if he goes down. Therefore if it has to be Lowry, then it´s 54/3 or 50/2, but not 90/3. If he does not like it, then he can play for the Pelicans.

To me a package of Lamb + Bitadze or Ross + Bamba instead of THJ is much more desirable. I doubt that THJ´s league-wide perception was any better than those of Lamb/Ross right now, before he got to play along-side the best basketball player on the planet. So who is to say that Lamb or Ross can´t replace 85-100% of THJ´s production on a cheaper and shorter contract, plus you get a free shot at young and cheap physical specimens, that you desperately need.

That´s how I approach it.

Maintain the current talent level (on paper), but increase the upside within the squad, the cap flexibility with better contracts and add to the bare asset base.

I´d rather be the same team (talent projection-wise) next season with an improved shot at a Zach Lavine type than have a projected 10-15% improvement, but absolutely no way for further additions in the future.

Let´s be clear. Anyone think we can add another major talent with Lowry on 90/3 and THJ on 54/3? That´s four big contracts with negative value (Porzingis, Lowry, THJ, Powell). At that point we are out of ammo and our battle will be to fight of the vultures coming for Brunson and especially DFS.