2023 DRAFT: Mavs take Lively, OMP, sign Mike Miles to 2-way, sign Jordan Walker

[StrandedOnBeauboisHill]

Cato on his podcast said he thinks it is more likely Dallas trades the pick.  Enjoyable listen but I disagree that it is a fact that one of the wings is not at 10.  I think there is decent odds one makes it to 10.  In fact, I wouldn't be shocked if two of them make it to 10.  It just takes one team to take Dick or Wallace for at least one to slip.  And you can't discount the out of left field draft pick. 

I also disagree with picks 9-15 being lumped together and 10 being a bad spot.  That may be the thought process on the exterior, but uncertainly creates opportunity.  Last year I thought Duren slipped further than he should and Jalen Williams went earlier than he should have and he turned out to be a stud. 

Cato also mentioned that he thought Dick is not someone who the Mavs would have interest in.  Not sure if he was reporting this or just speculating. 

I am not against trading the pick, but I prefer keeping it for now.  I do agree with them if they do move it, I would focus on a guy on his rookie deal.  I am just not comfortable adding a third high salary player with little else around them.  I think it just leaves you too exposed...especially down the road.  That is why I am proposing a Walker, Reid pairing.  Then you have Green, Hardy, Walker, Reid all under 23.  Heck throw a flier at Trevor Keels as your 15th spot.  There is good opportunity for internal growth there.  It is not a contender next year but you set yourself with expiring contracts and a future first to move to get the piece you think you are missing.

The Cato podcast was really weird.  Was very clear that he was not up on these draft prospects at all but more than willing to speak in some weird absolutes on the matter.  They basically said the top 9 was set in stone and then 9-20 is all parity.  So strange.