2020-2021 ROSTER TALK: Archived

[DanSchwartzgan]

Talking about THJ. He obviously has to make the most out of his next contract but is there a chance that the Mavs and THJ can work out a Dirk like agreement. Sign a smaller contract this summer (1/11m). Followed by a big payday in 2022 (2/40). Next summer the Mavs are over the cap anyway and if they want to keep the crew together most likely paying luxury tax (DFS, Brunson).
Obviously requires a lot of trust on both sides but I do think that THJ would like to stay in Dallas. Also think that the MBT values him. Not only for his on court production but also as a team leader and chemistry guy.

I like the thinking here.  I've said I think the range is $14mm to $18mm.  But that is theoretical.  Who out there is going to use cap space on him.  That leaves him at the MLE if we don't sign/sign-and-trade him.  I like your numbers as it is basically the same as  3 x $17.  I'm guessing you'd give him a PO for a second year to guarantee him $22.9-ish? 

Here's my question.  You are leaving yourself $23mm for who.  A bunch of the guys you would put here would push THJ to the bench.  For instance, say Lowry agreed to $23mm (same agent as THJ).  That works for the Mav's and for Lowry.  Does it help THJ?  He's still coming off the bench and betting about $7 million (spread between 2/$22.9 and 3/$29.5 MLE elsewhere) that a year from now Dallas will keep its wink-wink deal.  Also, will the league put up with that big of a circumvention.  Dirk can take as little as he wants and could justify a max the next year.  Is there any world in which you can justify $20mm per for THJ as a bench player a year from now?