Dallas Mavericks: How does Kawhi Leonard injury impact the Mavs?

Kawhi Leonard injury could impact the Dallas Mavericks chances of acquiring talent

If Kawhi decides to stay with the Clippers, they are likely to get aggressive on the trade market. LA will want to improve their roster, so they can ensure they make the playoffs. Leonard is set to miss half the season and will need a ramp-up period after returning. The Clippers could be buried in the standings if they do improve their roster.

Dallas will be looking to make trades and upgrade its roster this summer. The two teams could be competing for some of the same players. The Clippers joining the fray only increases the price it will cost the Mavs.

Both teams will be fighting for wings at the mid-level exception and veterans to round out their roster too. Kawhi’s injury could make LA a little more desperate to land talent, which does not play in the Dallas Mavericks’ favor. The Clippers will be limited by their lack of cap space on the open market, but the two teams will still be competing for free agents.

The free agents could view coming to the Mavericks as a better situation than LA now. Luka Doncic is healthy and ready to compete for a championship. Coming to the Clippers means playing without Kawhi for half a season and fighting just to make the playoffs. The injury could give Dallas a leg up in free-agent negotiations.

Next: Mavs title odds