Mavs: Cam Johnson, Coby White, Nuggets 2030 1st Pick Swap

Nugs: Naji Marshall, Klay Thompson

Bulls: Gafford, Dlo, 3 second round picks

Lets start with the Mavs. The Mavs are in desperate need of two things, financial flexibility, and clearing two roster spots to sign Nembhard and Cisse to standard contracts. These deals check both of those boxes, clearing two roster spots, $11 million in cap this year, and $12 million expiring with Coby White...ideally, you find a way to keep White, but that would be impossible, barring moves over the summer, which I think they could figure out a way when the time comes. I don't see White drawing a $30 million contract or anything, I'm expecting more around the $20 million mark, and there are ways to get that done. Not only are you checking those boxes, though, you're buying low on a once great role player in Cam Johnson, who could revitalize his value with the Mavs. Even if he doesn't return to shape, he will be a $20 million expiring contract next year, which is valued across the league no matter what. You also get a future swap from the Nuggets, which could be very interesting.

The Nuggets do this trade, because as I previously mentioned, Cam Johnson has lost all his value, and is playing horrible this year. The Nuggets, despite Jokic missing considerable time, have played fantastic this year, and are 100% in the same realm as the Thunder and Spurs to compete for the chip this year. Adding a seasoned vet, sharp-shooter, in Klay to add legit offensive threat from the bench, will easily help their playoff chances. The real piece, though, is Naji Marshall who has been having an absolute breakout year. Not only will he defend the best opposing player, but he is a serious playmaker who boasts the best floater in the league. He would likely find his minutes coming from the bench for the Nuggets, but adding Klay and Naji to bolster the Nuggets depth would be a serious move that could push the Nuggets over the edge.

The Bulls are the team I could see saying no here. Gafford is a fantastic center, but this year has been very disappointing. I blame it on the fact that he has been playing through an obvious injury all year, and given an offseason to heal, can easily get back to the old Gafford, who would be great to pair next to Giddy. I don't think they would be interested in Dlo, but it's necessary for the Mavs. To get this deal done, I could see the Nuggets swap being rerouted to the Bulls, and I think the Mavs still pull the trigger if that's the case.

Let me know who says no!