THE CRUCIFIX: Cato: Wood isn't thrilled w/ his role...Will depart in the summer

[DallasMaverick]

It might be simply a matter of easing him back in the rotation coming off an injury.  It could also be for balance in the rotation to give the bench a little offensive punch.

But, this is the role I’ve always seen as his highest and best use.  It is a valuable role, but it isn’t a $17mm role.  The $13mm number would be a hair high for this role.  I also expect him to be traded and for the value to be surprisingly small.  I’ve mentioned the other Morris brother from LAC and as the means of moving Bertan’s money for expiring but out of the rotation Love and maybe another player.  I don’t see it being much more than that unless we add a pick.

I think the big disconnect is in Wood's perception of his own value, and the Mavs' (and the rest of the league).

If Wood is only willing to sign a 4-year deal at starter's dollars:
1. Mavs aren't going to re-sign him, and
2. Teams who might acquire him aren't, either.  So he's just a rental.

On the free-agent market, who's willing to pay him? All it takes is one team that's convinced of his value.  But wouldn't that team be calling Nico, offering some minimal bench player now, in order to obtain the opportunity to re-sign him rather than have to bid on an open free-agent market?

I think MLE might do it.

I do not think the Mavericks can sign him at market price. He's convinced he's worth more.