Shams: If the Mavericks had made Doncic a public bid, they could have exchanged 8 first-rounders or even changed letters.
6686 Sports November 12 News The Mavericks fired general manager Nico Harrison yesterday. Today, ESPN reporter Shams analyzed Doncic's trade value on the show.
Host Stephen A. Smith: "If Nico had chosen to take a step back, instead of contacting the Lakers directly, he would have waited and asked around to see what he could get in exchange for Luka. Then, in addition to the Anthony Davis deal that was finally reached, what kind of offer could the Mavericks get from other teams in February for Luka Doncic?"
Shams: "If only the draft picks were exchanged. If so, they could have gotten a lot of first-round picks. For example, the deal for Mikal Bridges (from the Knicks and Nets) ended up with four or five first-round picks, and Desmond Bane (from the Grizzlies and Magic) recently got four first-round picks. If the Mavericks' goal was just draft picks, then it's entirely possible to exchange Luka Doncic for six or eight first-round picks. Going forward, the deal for Rudy Gobert (from the Timberwolves and Jazz). Returning four first-round picks plus a few pick swaps. So, if the Mavericks just want to exchange draft picks, they can at least get the same or even more returns."
"But if the goal is to get another star player, the situation will be more complicated. A swap between Luka and Antetokounmpo? Or are there other potential star trading opportunities? "But looking back now, Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont himself has publicly admitted, 'We made a mistake. 'Obviously, this is the current situation."