Should Mavericks be all-in if Warriors move on from Draymond Green?

The Dallas Mavericks are still searching for a second star to pair with Luka Doncic. They took a chance on Kristaps Porzingis just months into number 77’s tenure with the team, but things never worked out. Doncic became a superstar and one of the best players in the world, but the Unicorn failed to stay healthy, and the duo never meshed. The Mavs traded KP for Spencer Dinwiddie at last season’s trade deadline.

To make matters worse, Jalen Brunson departed in free agency after a breakout fourth NBA season that saw him average over 21 points per game in the playoffs. The Knicks offered him north of $100 million, and it was just too good to pass up. Dallas rebounded by upgrading their frontcourt this offseason, but they do not have a second star on their roster.

The Mavs are a bit limited as they still owe the Knicks a first-round pick from the original Kristaps Porzingis trade. That obligation will likely be gone next summer, and that opens the door for Dallas to acquire a star, and Draymond Green appears to be one of the best names available.

Warriors tax bill could force Draymond Green's departure when Dallas Mavericks have assets

Golden State extended both Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins on the eve of the 2022-23 regular season. The two new deals could push the Warriors close to $500 million in salary and luxury tax penalties if they keep Draymond beyond this season. Green has a $27.5 million player option for the 2023-24 campaign and keeping him at the number likely moves the Dubs (subscription required) beyond where they are willing to go in salary.

Green has three options. He can opt-out and test the open market next summer, opt-in and likely be traded to limit the Warriors' tax burden, or opt-out and sign a long-term contract at a lower dollar value. If Green wants to get paid, he will have to do it somewhere else.

The Warriors are likely to keep Draymond Green through their title defense this season, but next summer, all bets are off. Dallas will have assets to deal at that point, but they will not have cap space. Should the Mavericks be all-in on trying to convince the heart and soul of the Warriors defense through their four championships in eight years to come to Dallas?