2026 NBA draft thread

[michaeltex]

I'm in the "no point in being bad" or "let's try to be good" camp as well.  Just thought I'd suggest that the new GM isn't likely to make sweeping changes this summer.  If there is a no-brainer long term fit available with the MLE or TPE....absolutely.  Otherwise, the sweeping changes probably start at the TDL and the summer of 27.  I can see some setting-the-table type moves this summer.  The trade before THE trade type moves.  Creating more flexibility for 2027 type moves.

I think the "if" question on Middleton is less important than the "how".  Might we get a second and another TPE for a S&T?  Sure.  I think I'd rather have him on a structure where he is valued at the TDL and he and/or Klay could be moved for a real building block (or something that better leads to a real building block).  I'm all for trying to be the 26/27 version of Portland.  But, I wouldn't forego something tangible for the future to create the difference between a 4-2 first round series loss and a 4-1 first round series loss.  Cooper's development is enhanced by being surrounded by better players.  The team's long term plan is enhanced by getting the assets to "solve problems" as you say.

I'm thinking about it in terms of moving the team culture from hanging on/losing/tanking to winning and expecting to win. IMO, DAL has been in the dumps, culture-wise, since the beginning of the 2024 season. It started with Luka out of shape and needing an in-season focused absence to get ready to play. Then the calf issue reared it's head, again, and the team was back in hanging on mode until his return. The THE TRADE happened, shocking the team followed by such a rash of injuries that the season became "what's the point", and a late tank was implemented. 25 started with everyone justifiably holding their breath for the next AD injury, despite the excitement of a shiny new #1 pick, and quickly became a lost season of low expectations (how few games was DAL even a favorite?) and an "ethical" tank into where we are today.

Personally, I want to see some positive growth in player development, including Coop, and a return to winning as a tradition, not an accident. That will require some professional GM-ing and competent coaching. DAL is still in limbo on the former and cautiously confident in the latter. Kidd did get them to the Finals just a few years back, so he's at least earned the chance. The last two years weren't due to coaching.