Trade & FA 2025-26: Free Agency Starts 5pm CST/6pm EST

[F Gump]

So it does not look like they are going to pull the trigger on a GM move prior to TDL.  Are you suggesting that no moves be made until that happens, regardless of what is offered?

That isn't a reasonable question to ask. Too open-ended. It's a question that needs qualifiers, and wading through those makes it a beating. 

But in general, yes I think the hiring of the expert GM should precede any moves that are difference-makers in terms of the talent level and direction of the franchise. I also think they need to first be satisfied that Kyrie-AD-Flagg is not their answer AND they need to ascertain if/how the trade itself would actually improve on Kyrie-AD-Flagg (which is a question for the new GM to figure out). I also think they need the expert GM who can get the best super-high return for AD or any other valued talents they might swap out.  

Once the page turns, there's also negotiating value in having a new sheriff for other teams to deal with. They can't assume the Mavs will let go of anyone easily or stupidly (which is a change from the past), and will have to make a strong offer to get someone they need. 

OTOH if they can find a deal to move Martin or Hardy for an expiring contract (or maybe DAR too), sure, that's easy. No need to wait for [Presti]. But that's not a loss of talent.