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

[Smitty]

I think this is pretty much right where I am. 

I do not believe even a pick swap on that NO pick was ever likely to be on the table, however, and while that's the kind of thing I'd have been demanding in the exploratory talks leading up to offers, I'd have mostly been doing so to nudge the actual offer in a better direction, not with any actual expectation of getting that asset. And, even in the event that ATL doesn't view this latest injury as a deal breaker, which I'm hoping might be the case, I think they'll easily be able to use it as an excuse to shut down that type of ask. So, I think that might not be lowering the asking price enough at this point if you're truly motivated to get something done. 

I really like Risacher here - the idea of it - so I think your take is the closest to where I am, though I don't think OO would have me quite as excited.

I’m hopeful that the potential AD trade is still alive. The problem is that I only see the Hawks as being the team that would still pull the trigger. You’ve done a great job pointing out that the Hawks lose the ability to include KP+Kennard to salary match for AD once the TDL passes, so they have a reason to keep talks alive. I’m certain that Rich Paul will be telling Bryson Graham that Davis will be back after the ASB. If no trade happens I feel pretty confident that Davis will elect to have the surgery instead.

It’s fun to keep the idea alive but it’s most likely dead in the water. 4 weeks is a long time though and a lot can change from now till then. I do expect the Mavs to make a move of some kind. Naji would be the name to watch for me. Could the Mavs combine his salary and someone like Martin just to get an expiring and fix their financials next season?