Dragic Gets Buyout: Lakers, Warriors as Suitors; What About Mavs?
DALLAS - The Dallas Mavericks long have been linked to Goran Dragic as a potential buyout suitor since he was dealt to the Miami Heat in the Kyle Lowry sign-and-trade in the offseason.
Dragic did not last long during his time with the Toronto Raptors. He appeared in just five total games before both sides agreed for him to be away from the team. He last appeared in an NBA game back in November.
The Raptors are having a strong season and decided to send Dragic's expiring $19.4 million contract paired with a first-round pick to the San Antonio Spurs for Thaddeus Young at the trade deadline.
According to multiple reports on Tuesday, Dragic has officially reached a buyout agreement with San Antonio. Dragic immediately becomes the hottest name on the NBA buyout market, with several contenders reportedly interested in signing him.
Although Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison said that he thinks his roster is “set” after trading Kristaps Porzingis to the Wizards for Spencer Dinwiddie and Davis Bertans, adding Dragic — who has long been connected to Luka Doncic and Dallas in rumors — would still be a move worth pursuing.
One would have to believe that Dragic would be a better bench-guard option for the Mavs over current players Frank Ntilikina, Trey Burke or Sterling Brown. Also, the Mavs just so happen to be in Miami tonight — where Dragic also is — the same day he gets bought out. Is that just a funny coincidence?
Among the suitors for Dragic include the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors—joining teams like the LA Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, and Brooklyn Nets that were all previously linked.
One of the key outcomes to watch for the Mavericks will be to watch if Dragic ends up signing with a rival contender in the Western Conference. The Warriors landing his services would be the biggest threat to Dallas.
