The Dallas Mavericks are entering a critical offseason, marked by uncertainty about some key players’ futures. Following the recent trade of Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis, the team now faces a complex rebuilding phase that could reshape its roster significantly, particularly with players like PJ Washington, Dwight Powell, and Daniel Gafford expected to be moved.
Powell’s position is one of the most precarious. With an expiring contract, the Mavericks might view his salary as expendable, especially if they seek to make room for new acquisitions in free agency. Reports suggest that the front office is considering moving Powell to cut costs or to facilitate other trades that might align better with their long-term strategy.
Washington also finds himself in a tenuous situation. His name has emerged in potential blockbuster trade scenarios, indicating that the Mavericks may prioritize trades that open up salary cap space or bring in impactful players who can contribute to their title aspirations. Washington’s expiring contract could be a valuable asset in any major deal.
Gafford rounds out the trio of players with uncertain futures in Dallas. While his contract isn’t as volatile as Powell’s or Washington’s, Gafford’s role on the team could diminish with the anticipated signing of other key players. His status as a possible trade chip could increase if the Mavericks find a deal that makes strategic sense.
NBA Analysis Predicts Dallas Mavericks Will Trade PJ Washington and 2 Others in Offseason
Washington, Powell, and Gafford are projected as Dallas’ most likely trade candidates this offseason. This is detailed more in an analysis by Dan Favale for Bleacher Report.
Entering the offseason in the tax suggests inevitable bookkeeping. They might be able to duck it if Kyrie Irving declines his player option and re-signs at a lower annual number. They can also end the Dwight Powell era by shipping out his $4 million expiring salary (player option).
Washington and his own expiring contract should wind up featuring prominently in any blockbuster package the Mavs cobble together. Sources told The Stein Line’s Marc Stein that Dallas isn’t necessarily a Kevin Durant suitor, and Kyrie’s ACL injury complicates at least a chunk of next season. But the clock is ticking on Harrison after he exiled Luka Dončić without receiving a bunch of draft picks.
This third spot can go in a variety of directions. Gafford wins out as the second-most intriguing salary-matcher in any possible bigger swing. His $14.4 million comes off the ledger after next season, and the Mavs, in this scenario, will likely believe they can dredge up a cheaper second-string 5 behind Dereck Lively II.
Injuries further complicate the Mavericks’ offseason plans, particularly with Kyrie Irving’s uncertain status following his recent injury. These challenges have put pressure on the organization to make informed decisions about which players should remain and which could be traded to realign the roster.
With the upcoming draft and free agency on the horizon, the Mavericks are poised for significant changes. The decisions made during this pivotal period will shape the franchise’s future as they strive to build a competitive team around Davis and continue their quest for a championship.
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