Rumors: Dallas Mavericks to put Christian Wood on the trade block?

The Dallas Mavericks traded a late first-round pick to acquire Christian Wood during the offseason. They wanted more scoring punch and someone that could improve their rebounding. The trade also allowed Dallas to clear some roster space and gave them more flexibility.

The front office is facing an important decision with C-Wood. The 6’10 big man is in the final year of his contract, and he becomes extension eligible on Dec. 24. Will Dallas sign him long-term? If not, do they put him on the trade block in hopes of recouping something for him?

Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report dropped his latest rumors on Dec. 22 where he shared what rival executives believe the Mavericks will do before the trade deadline. Here is a look at the latest.

Rumors: Dallas Mavericks to put Christian Wood on the trade block?

Haynes notes that teams are watching the Mavs closely because they believe C-Wood will be available before the Feb. 9 deadline. The scribe notes that Dallas has not been offering him in trades yet, but most rival executives believe they will soon.

Wood wants to make the playoffs and be an All-Star. He made his goals clear at the beginning of the season, but the fit has not been perfect in Dallas. Head coach Jason Kidd has primarily used him off the bench as the team’s sixth man. Wood is still averaging over 17 points per game, but he is playing just over 27 minutes each night. The 27-year-old would prefer a starting role and to play more than 30 minutes per game.

Expect the Dallas Mavericks to at least engage in extension talks with Christian Wood before placing him on the trade block. They will be looking to secure his services at a discount. Wood becomes an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2023 if the two sides cannot work out a long-term deal.

C-Wood is one of the many names to watch at the trade deadline as the Mavs try to upgrade their roster around Luka Doncic. Can the front office find the right deal? Stay tuned to find out.