Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[Dundalis]

I am having trouble finding the move  that helps the team fit better next year while also helping the push for the next several years.  I have no idea how they make things work if they do not make a move.   Maybe I am thinking about too big of a move and need to think lesser.  I think we are a far way away from being a contender, but I think things could move faster if a lot of "ifs' turn into "yes'.   Such as Cooper following the super star track where things tend to happen faster, Kyrie returning to a top 50 player, Lively and Morez being elite level role players, Some of their wings find a home here, etc.

I have been thinking lately that Masai's timeline may be faster than we think.   With the moves they made this summer, I think PJ/Gaff/Marshall, etc may be the trade pieces they use to get a running mate for Cooper and not used to just balance out the roster.  I just am not sure who that player is.   If feels like they would be light for Trey Murphy trade discussions.  Probably the same for Cason Wallace.    As we have seen this summer, a lot of all stars are being moved.    Maybe if "if' moves turn into "yes" than a more aggressive move could happen sooner than later.   I just don't know how it can work to start the season wtih the roster as is.  Not enough minutes in the front court.

In terms of running mate for Coop, or higher level starters, I feel like that type of move happens next summer. I think due to how asset poor we are, this summer is about getting in depreciated or undervalued assets, attempting to rebuild their value this season to where they hold a lot more value come TDL or next summer. Then we are in a better place asset wise to really go after the difference maker targets we want. Do still think there will be moves made before the season starts, but think it will be along the lines of more depreciated or undervalued assets, or draft capital.