Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[DanSchwartzgan]

Same here. 

If we focus on Watson, what's the most likely path, do you think? He's going to be too big to fit into the TPE, obviously, and if Denver was willing to pay the tax bill for the matching salary, they'd probably just give him what he wants. Is there a smart way to find a fit between Dallas and Denver that I haven't thought of?

It is probably too unlikely to spend much time on it.

I think there are probably two ways to get to a number that works.  Last night I proposed Naji and the Laker 2029 for Watson at $21mm using the Dallas TPE.  I get that the estimates out there are more in the $23mm - $25mm range, but the that may not be the market.  Denver has done a cheaper/lesser version of the player it lost a couple of times now.  I think Naji (cheaper/lesser SF) and our 2029 Laker fits their history.

What is the alternative?  With the Detroit/Collins deal now closed, LAC would have to put Watson in the still open Kawhi trade.  They can take back Ingram and still have room for Watson at $23mm in the deal if they find a new home for Dick.  Is Dick and a Pick any better than Naji and a Pick?  I guess LAC could send Dick to a third team and just send a pick(s) or DJJ and a pick.  It is still basically the same as the Naji framework.

If you have to get to $23mm or more, then you have to solve the BYC issue without causing Denver to go over the 2nd Apron or take on more salary than being sent out as a 1st Apron team.  There are a couple of ways that work (possibly others) and both involve Denver sending back Zeke Nnaji.  One is Watson ($23mm)/Nnaji straight up for Klay.  The other is pairing Christie and Naji for Watson and Nnaji.  Both of those Dallas outgoing scenarios fit the sweet spot between what Watson counts as outgoing and what matches in the other direction.