The Dallas Mavericks: Saved by The Magic

The Magic have obviously made themselves a better team this offseason, but hey have also helped many other teams in the process.

The Nets were able to become a better team by trading Vince Carter to the Magic.  They became more financially flexible and added youthful talent.  Take a good look at the trade.

Rafer Alston (expires 09/10) + Tony Battie (expires 09/10) + Courtney Lee (starting 2 guard for 10 years, and the pick they should have made last year) for Vince Carter (old, expensive, long contract) +Ryan Anderson (serviceable, backup big man)

Rod Thorn understands that the Nets are not winning the NBA title anytime soon with Carter so he creates a younger team and cap space for next season.  This move creates a trio of Harris, Lee, and Lopez.  Three of the budding stars in the NBA.  Do not be surprised to see a major free agent signing next year in New Jersey (or Brooklyn, what is going on with that?).  Three young, athletic kids with great attitudes and unselfish personalities make for great team morale.  The New Jersey Nets, saved by the Magic.

Next up, the Toronto Raptors (with a little help from the Dallas Mavericks).  By including the Magic into the trade initially involving Marion and Stackhouse, the Raptors were able to shed salary, acquire Turkoglu, save Delfino, and still have their MLE to spend in the free agency market this year.  With a core of Bosh, Turkoglu, Calderon, and Bargnani, the Raptors need a few hustle players which can be had with the MLE.  That team should contend in the East, especially with Bosh ready to get a max contract. Watch out.  Another team saved by the Magic.

Lastly, the Dallas Mavericks.  While many Maverick fans and local Dallas media outlets are upset and distraught over the losing of Bass and Gortat, I believe it’s a hidden gem.  If you look at some of the centers who have received the full MLE like Gortat did you would be surprised.  Jerome James (who similar to Gortat played strong in the playoffs before receiving his offer), Chris Wilcox (talent is their but work ethic is not), Desagana Diop (the Mavs answer? I think not), Marc Blount (I have no comment), Nazr Mohammed (same as Blount), and Rasho Nesterovic (replacement to The Admiral? Hahahaha).  So maybe, just maybe, Gortat was too good to be true, but then again he could be great.  Good thing he will be, once again, playing 10-15 minutes a game except this year he will be earning some good dough. 

Now, Brandon Bass leaving was a heartbreak for the Mavs.  I could not agree more.  But is he worth 4.5 mil a year? Backing up Dirk?  We have learned that Bass at the 5 is not a good idea.  Therefore, Bass would get 20 minutes a game at 4.5 mil a year.  I would rather have Marion, Nivins, or Singleton playing those minutes for more of a bargain.  I think the Mavs made the right decision.  Don’t get me wrong, Bass is a heck of a player, but the Mavs need a more traditional bruiser inside, if one exists.   Look at the bright side, we only see him twice a year!  Another team saved by the Magic.

Mavs fans should be excited.  The loss of Bass and Gortat means another big move is coming, the excitement is back.