Why a Christian Wood extension with the Dallas Mavericks is unlikely

The Dallas Mavericks are facing an important decision on what to do with Christian Wood. They traded a late first-round pick to acquire him in the offseason, but he is currently in the final year of his contract. Do the Mavs extend him or let him test the market as an unrestricted free agent in the summer?

Wood became eligible for a four-year $77 million extension on Dec. 24. That is the maximum allowed, but can the two sides work out a deal? If not, does Dallas put C-Wood on the trade block? The Mavericks have until Feb. 9 to trade him, and he can sign an extension until the final day of the season. With just over one month to go before the trade deadline, Dallas needs to make a decision quickly.

Wood has started the last five games and has taken his game to another level. He is still only averaging 27.6 minutes per game this season, so is he interested in an extension? Here is a closer look at what C-Wood had to say after the Mavs Christmas Day win over the Lakers before diving into why an extension is unlikely and what could change before he reaches free agency.

Christian Wood on his interest in signing an extension with the Dallas Mavericks

Wood was quoted by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon as saying the following when asked about extending with the Mavs.

"I’m happy to be here. That’s what I’ll say. The vibe is good… I’m open to it."

It is his first chance to play for a winning team and to prove that he can help an organization win as he puts up monster numbers. Wood has gotten better as the season has progressed, and he is playing well on the defensive end of the floor, so why are the Mavs not extending him?

Here is a look at the reasons Dallas has for not locking up Christian Wood long-term.