02-01-2024, 08:46 PM
(02-01-2024, 08:38 PM)F Gump Wrote: There is a wide gap between LA getting "a bunch of nothing" and "all the assets" from a trade partner, and I don't think it would be either extreme. I think they will get a strong return, but don't think it will be as strong as you are theorizing. IF he is traded, of course.
I think Lebron will have significant input, refusing to go to a stripped down team, and that Luka-Kyrie-Lively will be off the table, if the Mavs and LA start fashioning a deal.
One factor in a deal will be the salary match, and the number of bodies, which will force some choices. Matching LBJ's $47M takes multiple salaries, and when you include small ones (Hardy, Omax, Lively, etc), LA has to waive a bunch of their roster when including small salaries to do the deal. In addition, LA and DAL are both slightly below the tax line, so neither will want to incur a bunch of added payroll. The point is, for DAL, a trade for LBJ would be tricky and probably require plenty of flexibility and creativity on both sides.
Agree there is a gap and I don't think Lakers can take all Mavs rookies exactly for the reason you stated (number of players involved) But, Mavs have only two prized assets. 2027 and Lively. Everything else is meh. Lively has been great, but he is still a rookie. I find it much more likely that the deal would include a way for Mavs to get a semi competent center (either in buyout or expanded deal with a third team) than Lakers taking anything less than 2027 and Lively.