The Dallas Mavericks made a big move this offseason after signing longtime Warrior, Klay Thompson to a three-year, $50 million contract. Now, at this point, the Mavs have exhausted their cap space with much-needed superstars. With Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, PJ Washington, and others, Dallas is looking at a back-to-back Finals appearance. The team’s financial situation has also hit the max button after Thompson’s contract.
Consequently, the front office won’t be looking to add major additions. But of course, they can look to adjust their roster through trades. Going into the 2024-25 season, the Mavericks’ combined active team salary is around $173.9 million. Luckily for Dallas, they are just under the first apron limit which is $178.1 million. Also, their total cap is $188.8 million. They are currently hard-capped at first apron as they acquired Klay Thompson via sign-and-trade. But that won’t be an issue when it comes to acquiring trades.
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Apart from Thompson, Irving will be earning $41 million this upcoming season. And of course, Luka Doncic with the expensive bag will fetch him $43 million this year. But then again, Mark Cuban might need to look out for extension-eligible players. At this point, Daniel Gafford, who is under a three-year $40 million contract has proven to be crucial for the Mavs. If anything, the front office’s next move would be figuring out his extension before he enters the last year of his contract next summer.
Another crucial asset, Dereck Lively, is under a club option for the 2025-26 season. It will be interesting to see if the Mavs consider keeping him for the long term. For the upcoming season, the Mavericks’ financial situation looks fine. However, they might have a problem by the end of the 2024-25 season.
The Mavericks will be looking at a major veteran extension
Kyrie Irving will have a $43.9 million player option next summer. Now, he can opt out and sign a four-year deal, worth above $250 million. ‘Uncle Drew’ is just 32, and considering his performance alongside the main man, Luka Doncic, the veteran can expect a more expensive deal next summer. Moreover, in the next two years, Luka Doncic’s extension will be under consideration and the deal likely won’t cost under $330 million. Nevertheless, the Mavericks will have to manage their finances next year, extending Irving and hopefully, Daniel Gafford.
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As they head towards the upcoming season, the Mavericks are one of the favorites to win it all, according to several odds. Looking at other contenders in the West, the Mavs have a great chance of making the Finals again. Last year, the Mavericks made a late run in the regular season that landed them on the fifth seed. But this time, they’ll look to get early wins in the first half of the season. What are your thoughts on the Dallas Mavericks? Do you think they’ll make another run to the Finals? Let us know in the comments.
Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.
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Did Mark Cuban just gamble the Mavericks' future on Klay Thompson? Smart move or reckless risk?
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