Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[mvossman]

I think it would be a plus to have some spending ability next summer.

But no, I don't think it would be a plus to strip away the existing talent, SOLELY to create more spending room. 

One problem is that in re-using salary space you clear, you will be looking to fill specific needs (not just scoop up random bodies), and you never have any GUARANTEE of availability (of the specific type of player you need) nor of the price you might prefer to pay. Talent at the right price and that fits - not air - is where value lies. 

There's also the issue of the totally unsubstantiated assumption that GS [or team X] would do such a deal. As interesting as such a deal would seem, the reality is that GS has maintained their desire to keep Butler. That's true not just of Butler, but with the vast majority of such targets being named. And some of the proposed targets aren't even expiring.

It's not just about having spending money.  If contracts continue the trend of being lower than expected, then PJ and Gafford are in legit danger of becoming negative assets.  They are on the books for a long time and there is a possibility that they will negatively impact Mavs options in the future.

There is no assumption that GS would do such a deal.  I'm well aware it is highly unlikely.  That was merely an example of the kind of deal that might make sense for Mavs.  The Jrue Holiday trade is another.  He has another year on that contract, but you would still be shedding long term salary and would be getting draft capital back.