Mavericks Own NBA During Free Agency
DALLAS (105.3 THE FAN) - When the Mavericks decided to let Tyson Chandler go in Free agency 11 days ago I applauded their courage in sacrificing the 2011-2012 season for the fruits of what might lay ahead in free agency next summer. I also called Mark Cuban a liar when he insisted in multiple interviews that they would find a way to compete. I laughed at Rick Carlisle when he said he was excited about what his roster would end up looking like. And then I woke up this morning.
The Mav's ability to create a trade exception out of the Tyson Chandler sign and trade toNew York, then trade it toLos Angelesfor Odom was brilliant by itself. The fact that the Lakers can now use that exception to acquire Dwight Howard, preventing him from teaming up with Deron Williams inNew Jerseyis Bobby Fischer stuff. And of course Odom has a team option for next year which will allow the Mavs to waive the then 33 year old after they have used him for what they need. Compete for a title and get under the salary cap. Best of both worlds.
When the Mavs acquired Tyson Chandler in the summer of 2010, Donnie Nelson joined the G-BAG Nation and I told him I still didn't think it was enough. He laughed and called me a hater. Won't make that mistake again. After watching them surgically slice and dice over the last week and a half, I only want to ask Donnie if he would consider taking the GM job inPortland?? It's good money if you don't mind working for an eccentric computer nerd who's on shaky ground with his health and has lost his patience.
Donnie and Cuban have entered rare territory for sports management teams. They have earned the trust of fans. Whatever they decide to do, no need to break it down too much because you KNOW they got it right again.
I want to acknowledge Fakebook friend Lucas Cole for the idea to start the Ballin blog. And Jessie Sponberg for following up that suggestion with the comment "SUPER TROOF".
Catch Gavin Dawson's "G-Bag Nation" weeknights 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on 105.3 The Fan. Follow Gavin on Twitter @GavinDawson
