Why a Christian Wood extension with the Dallas Mavericks is unlikely

What could change between Dallas Mavericks and Christian Wood before free agency?

Wood has started the last five games as the team has been bitten by the injury bug, and he has taken his game to another level. He averaged 18.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 2.4 blocks in 34.2 minutes of action. C-Wood has blocked at least two shots in every game and has been fantastic on both ends of the floor.

The only thing that allows the two sides to get an extension done is likely Christian Wood continuing that production and accepting a discount from his four-year $77 million max. If he plays well, why would he accept less money? Wood will be an unrestricted free agent and should have no shortage of suitors in the $15-20 million per season price range.

If an extension is virtually off the table, should the Mavs trade the 6’10 big man before the deadline? That would allow them to recoup some value, especially if the plan is to just let C-Wood walk in free agency.

Dallas is unlikely to deal him unless it improves their chances of winning this season. The Mavericks want to make another deep playoff run, and they need talent to do it. Their front office will likely do the same thing they did with Jalen Brunson. Wood will play out the season and depart in free agency in the summer of 2023.

The Dallas Mavericks could sign Christian Wood to a long-term deal at any moment. It appears unlikely but things change quickly in the NBA. This is a story to watch closely heading into the Feb. 9 trade deadline, and stay tuned for all the latest.