After 13 seasons donning No. 11 with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson is starting fresh with the Dallas Mavericks, wearing a new number in tribute to one of his childhood idols, Reggie Miller. Thompson, now repping No. 31, is poised to make an immediate impact alongside Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.
“When me and [Kyrie Irving] have the ball, you basically can’t help from Klay because if you leave him wide open, he’s going to make it,” Dončić said.
Thompson, renowned for his lethal shooting, adds a new dynamic to the Mavs’ offense as they look to compete for a deep playoff run this season. His connection to Miller, one of the NBA’s greatest shooters, adds another layer to his storied career as he begins this new chapter in Dallas.
The NBA finals are finally upon us. The Dallas Mavericks will take on the Boston Celtics on Thursday in what should be a fascinating series of basketball, featuring two teams that have had very different roads to the final. Through 82 games, the Boston Celtics ran through the league during the regular season, finishing with an impressive 64 wins under their belt. Dallas is a different story. The Mavs were a middling team with two superstars, but their fortunes changed with a fantastic trade deadline that brought in the likes of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. They finished the season with one of the best records after the All-Star break.
The two teams’ playoff journeys have also been vastly different. The Celtics cruised through the East to the Finals, facing overmatched competition. Add to the fact that several injuries of star players on the teams they were facing, like the Cavaliers and the Pacers, and you have a smooth run to the finals. On the other hand, the Mavericks have had a tough journey in the West, facing three 50-win teams in a row while dealing with several injuries of their own. The star-studded Finals matchup will feature several matchups and storylines. Kyrie is returning to Boston, and Porzingis is returning to Dallas. Will Jayson Tatum get his first title before Luka Doncic? The drama will undoubtedly be matched by the level of basketball that fans will be treated to. Who will come out on top? Let’s look at the matchups.
Kyrie Irving is returning to Boston after five years after his big move. Irving landed in Boston in 2017 after being traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he won a championship with LeBron James. He forced his way out of Boston in 2019. The Kyrie that was present then isn’t the same Kyrie that is in Dallas. He clearly wanted to venture out on his own and be the premier veteran on a team that could lead them to a championship. He was not up to the task in Boston or his next stop in Brooklyn, but this version of Kyrie seems to have learned from his mistakes and has stepped up as a leader. Nevertheless, Irving will not receive a warm welcome in Boston.
The Boston fans will heckle Irving like they have heckled a few other players. There is a lot of bad blood there between Irving and the fans. It’s no wonder Irving rarely plays in Boston anymore. Kyrie infamously stepped on the Celtics logo as a sign of disrespect; he has flipped off fans and astonishingly tried to cleanse the Boston arena with sage. The Kyrie return is probably the top of the list for drama in the Finals. It is unlikely the noise affects Kyrie Irving in Boston, but if he struggles early, Boston’s fans will feed into it and take it up a notch. Also of note will be his ex-teammate’s reception to him. Let’s see how the dap-ups before game 1 go between Kyrie, Jayson, and Jaylen.
Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are considered two of the best closers in the NBA. We saw their proficiency against the Timberwolves in late-game situations. Their shot-making ability and clutch play are both a big factor in the Finals. Luka is his own beast whose okay performances still see him dropping 30-point triple-doubles. The variety of defenders he has seen in the playoffs has been challenging, and Boston possesses great defenders to throw at him. Nevertheless, Luka has gone off on just about any defender that’s ever guarded him. Kyrie, on the other hand, might be pushed to be more of a facilitator, with the likes of the Celtic’s Jrue Holiday and Derrick White hounding him. Kyrie will look to be aggressive if Boston forces the ball out of Doncic’s hands.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are as dynamic a duo as you have in the league. They both can fill it up and are good defenders. As a duo, they don’t complement each other at times, but their success in these playoffs is due to Tatum and the Brown’s offensive onslaught. The Mavericks have some range and versatile defenders to throw at them, but big numbers should be expected, no matter the matchups. This is the chance for Tatum and Brown to finally get over the hump and win an NBA title after years of falling short. When they are in attack mode, it’s something to behold but when they and their teammates continue to settle for 3-pointers, they get in trouble. Have they learned from their Finals failure against the Golden State Warriors two seasons ago? We will see.
Kristaps Porzingis is now expected to return in game one of the NBA Finals. After sustaining a non-contact calf injury during Game 4 of the first round against the Miami Heat, Porzingis has not appeared in a game since April 29. In that time, the Celtics defeated the Heat 4-1, went on to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1, and won the Eastern Conference Finals by sweeping the Indiana Pacers. Porzingis is the key that unlocked Boston’s powerhouse offense, which dominated the league. He is a knockdown 3-point shooter who can protect the rim like few players. He offers the Celtics a big advantage that can exploit mismatches and stretch the floor, which makes it much easier for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to attack.
Kristaps is also set to face his former team. His tenure with Luka Doncic and the Mavs was riddled with injury issues and a lack of chemistry between himself and Luka. The environment in Dallas will be particularly antagonistic towards the Latvian international. Dallas has some serious size with Daniel Gafford and rookie Dereck Lively II, but they will have to adjust to guarding Porzingis, who is a legit perimeter threat. His presence means Dallas will have to make some tough decisions defensively in the series. A big reason Dallas was so successful against the Wolves was because of the play of their bigs. Porzingis being healthy makes the 4 and 5 matchups something to keep an eye on.
Who Will Win The NBA Finals? Our Official Prediction
Indianapolis, IN – May 27: Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, right, hugs forward Oshae Brissett after winning Game 4 of the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals. (Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
Our pick for the 2024 NBA champion is the Boston Celtics. They have been dominant like few teams have been in NBA history. The Dallas Mavericks are not a very deep team, and most of the responsibility will be shouldered by Luka and Kyrie. Boston will be able to rely on guys like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday to take the load off of their stars, and that will be the difference. Porzingis being healthy seals the deal. The Boston Celtics win the series in six hard-fought games, and Jayson Tatum takes home the Finals MVP Award.
After a home victory last night, Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks are one game away from the NBA finals. They’re up 3-0 on the Minnesota Timberwolves after stealing both games on the road and they’ll get the chance to sweep the Western Conference Finals series tomorrow at home. As deep playoff runs tend to, it’s sparked discussion about the legacies of some of the central players. That included Joe Budden, who is weighing in on Kyrie Irving.
Kyrie has played spectacularly in the series and will almost certainly get the chance to play for his second ring in this year’s finale. While Luka has potentially stolen much of the spotlight especially after his game-winning shot in Game 2, Kyrie’s status is also being re-assessed. Irving continues to be a controversial figure in NBA circles mostly for his tenure on the Brooklyn Nets. While there he made multiple controversial public comments that led to him being accused of antisemitism. The first headline Budden shares reads “He’s your headache now” to which he captions “best headache ever.” Check out all the posts he made reasessing old Kyrie posts below.
The Western Conference Finals isn’t the only series currently sitting at 3-0. Earlier this week the Boston Celtics took a commanding lead over the Indiana Pacers after stealing Game 3 on the road. Jayson Tatum’s Celtics remain undefeated on the road through this point in the playoffs having won 5 road games already. Later today Boston will have the chance to sweep the series. The status of the Pacers star player Tyrese Haliburton still up in the air. No team has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit in an NBA conference final series.
What do you think of Joe Budden holding onto receipts about Kyrie Irving now that the Mavs are approaching the NBA Finals? Do you agree with him that the perception around Kyrie should shift because of this playoff run? Let us know in the comment section below.
After a narrow miss in the fourth quarter of Game 4, the Mavericks bounced back decisively in Game 5, taking control early and never relinquishing the lead to secure a 104-92 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The victory puts Dallas in a commanding position as they head into Game 6.
Luka Doncic was the standout performer, delivering a stellar 31 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, marking his third 30-point triple-double in playoff history. This achievement ties him with LeBron James for the second-most such games by a player aged 25 or younger, with only Oscar Robertson (seven) having more. In addition to his impressive stats, Doncic made a crucial block on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the final minute, sealing the win for Dallas. Derrick Jones Jr. also shone, scoring a playoff career-high 19 points, thanks in part to five assists from Doncic, including two three-pointers, two alley-oops, and a dunk.
The Mavericks’ defensive prowess was on full display as they held the Thunder to below 100 points for the first time in this series. Dallas limited OKC to 42.5% shooting (25% from three) and restricted them to just 10 free throw attempts. The Mavs are now 13-0 this season, including 4-0 in the playoffs, when holding opponents under 100 points.
Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s valiant effort, posting his fourth consecutive 30+ point game with 30 points, eight assists, and two steals, he was the only Thunder player to score more than 13 points. SGA joins Russell Westbrook as the only players in OKC playoff history with at least four straight 30+ point games in a single postseason.
The series resumes on Saturday (8 PM ET, ESPN) in Dallas for Game 6, where the Mavericks will aim to close out the series at home. The young Thunder face their first elimination game, hoping to extend their playoff run.
The Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off a remarkable comeback to even their series with the Dallas Mavericks at 2-2, securing a 100-96 victory.
Trailing eight points with just over eight minutes left, the Thunder went on a decisive 17-6 run to take a three-point lead with 3:24 remaining.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was instrumental in the Thunder’s rally, scoring 22 of his game-high 34 points in the second half. SGA also contributed eight rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks in 42 minutes. His back-to-back tough baseline jumpers during the run were pivotal, while Jalen Williams added crucial plays, including a driving dunk and a fastbreak layup off a steal to extend OKC’s lead.
The Thunder’s victory marks their 18th win this season after trailing by double digits, the most of any team. This resilience pushed the series back to Oklahoma City, tied at 2-2.
Despite Luka Doncic’s second triple-double of the postseason (18 points, 12 rebounds, ten assists), the Mavericks were unable to hold their lead. P.J. Washington delivered a strong performance with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and five three-pointers, marking his third consecutive game with 20+ points. However, Kyrie Irving struggled, scoring only nine points with nine assists, falling below 10 points for just the second time as a Maverick, both occurrences within the last three games.
The series now shifts back to OKC for Game 5, where both teams will battle to gain an advantage in this tightly contested matchup.
Dirk Nowitzki, a towering figure in basketball, has etched his name among the sport’s all-time greats with a career defined by skill, perseverance, and sportsmanship. He is also known for revolutionizing the power forward position with his impeccable shooting. Nowitzki has garnered a legion of fans and immense respect within the sports community.
As of 2023, this legendary athlete’s successful career, marked by numerous accolades and a transformative impact on the game, has culminated in a net worth of $140 million, according to CelebrityNetWorth. It is a figure emblematic of his status as one of basketball’s most influential players.
A Legacy On The Court: Dirk Nowitzki’s Basketball Career
BONN, GERMANY – NOVEMBER 27: Dirk Nowitzki poses during a photo shoot. On November 27, 1998 in Bonn, Germany (Photo by Holger Sauer/Getty Images)
Dirk Nowitzki’s journey in professional basketball is one of groundbreaking achievements and consistent excellence. From his early days in the German leagues to his storied tenure with the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA, Nowitzki’s career trajectory is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and sheer talent. His unique playing style was characterized by his ability to shoot from a distance despite his height. This earned him the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and redefined the expectations for players in his position.
Moreover, his leadership and performance in the 2011 NBA Finals, leading the Mavericks to their first championship, solidified his place in basketball lore. Nowitzki’s career is decorated with numerous honors, including multiple All-Star selections and a spot among the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, celebrating the best players in league history.
Beyond The Baseline: Dirk Nowitzki’s Off-Court Life
BERLIN, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 17: Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award winner Dirk Nowitzki. During the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards at Verti Music Hall on February 17, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Koerner/Getty Images for Laureus)
Off the court, Dirk Nowitzki’s life also reflects his character’s depth and commitment to giving back. His personal story, including his international upbringing and experiences, has shaped his worldview and approach to life. Nowitzki is known for his philanthropic work, particularly through the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation, which focuses on children’s well-being, health, and education.
His engagement in various charitable activities and community projects in the United States and Germany also demonstrates his dedication to using his platform for positive social impact. Nowitzki’s life outside basketball, including his role as a family man, adds a relatable and endearing quality to his public persona.
The Impact Of A Legend: Assessing Dirk Nowitzki’s Net Worth & Influence
DALLAS, TEXAS – JANUARY 05: Former Dallas Mavericks player Dirk Nowitzki looks on with his wife, Jessica Olsson. As the Dallas Mavericks raise a banner while retiring his No. 41 jersey at American Airlines Center. On January 05, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph. User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
In evaluating Dirk Nowitzki’s career and his $140 million net worth, it becomes clear that his impact transcends the boundaries of the basketball court. His contributions to the sport, further characterized by his innovative play and exemplary sportsmanship, have left an indelible mark on basketball. Overall, Nowitzki’s legacy is not just in the records he set or the championships he won. It’s in how he inspired a generation of players and fans alike. He showcased the power of dedication, humility, and international unity in sports.
In 2023, the charismatic entrepreneur, television personality, and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, Mark Cuban, has an estimated net worth of approximately $5.2 billion, according to Forbes. This staggering figure is a testament to Cuban’s relentless pursuit of success and his knack for making strategic business moves. Let’s delve into the journey that led him to this impressive fortune.
Mark Cuban’s journey to billionaire status began with humble beginnings. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Cuban displayed an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. He sold garbage bags door-to-door and worked as a bartender before venturing into the business world. His first major success came from MicroSolutions, a computer consulting service, which he sold for $6 million in 1990.
The Dot-Com Boom & Broadcast.com
AUSTIN, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 14: Mark Cuban attends AFROTECH Conference 2022- Day Two at Austin Convention Center on November 14, 2022 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for AFROTECH)
In the mid-90s, Cuban co-founded an internet radio company called Audionet, later rebranded as Broadcast.com. The company capitalized on the dot-com boom and became a sensation. In 1999, Yahoo acquired Broadcast.com for a staggering $5.7 billion in stock, catapulting Cuban into the realm of billionaires.
Cuban’s passion for sports led him to purchase the NBA team, the Dallas Mavericks, in 2000 for $285 million. Under his ownership, the Mavericks transformed from underperformers to NBA champions in 2011. The team’s value has skyrocketed since Cuban’s takeover, contributing significantly to his net worth.
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – SEPTEMBER 23: (L-R) Robert Herjavec, Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner and Kevin O’Leary attend the ‘Shark Tank’ season 8 premiere at Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills on September 23, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images)
Cuban’s visibility and popularity soared when he became a mainstay on the hit television show, “Shark Tank.” As one of the “sharks,” Cuban evaluates and invests in startup businesses, further diversifying his portfolio.
Cuban’s investment strategy is nothing short of diverse. He has invested in everything from technology startups to entertainment companies. His holdings include Magnolia Pictures, AXS TV, and a myriad of startups from his tenure on “Shark Tank.”
A portion of Cuban’s wealth is tied up in real estate and luxury assets. He owns several lavish properties and a $40 million private jet. These assets, while indicative of his lifestyle, also contribute to his overall net worth.
Philanthropy: Giving Back To The Community
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 11: Businessman Mark Cuban (C) with Tiffany Stewart (L) and Alyssa Cuban, Alexis Sofia Cuban, and Jake Cuban at Nickelodeon’s 2017 Kids’ Choice Awards at USC Galen Center on March 11, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
Cuban is not just about accumulating wealth; he is also a philanthropist. Through the Mark Cuban Foundation, he has donated millions to causes such as education, healthcare, and disaster relief.
The $5.2 billion net worth of Mark Cuban in 2023 is a reflection of decades of strategic investments, business acumen, and a relentless pursuit of opportunities. From his early days of selling garbage bags to owning an NBA team and starring in a hit TV show, Cuban’s journey is a quintessential American success story.
Mark Cuban’s story is of perseverance, strategic risk-taking, and an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit. His $5.2 billion net worth is not just a testament to his financial success but also a reflection of his diverse interests and investments. As we look at Cuban’s journey, it’s clear that his wealth is well-deserved and hard-earned.
Kristaps Porzingis, the towering Latvian NBA sensation, has made significant strides both on and off the basketball court. As of 2023, his net worth stands at an impressive $30 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. But how did the 7’3″ power forward, who began his basketball journey at the tender age of six, amass such wealth? Let’s delve into his journey.
Born on August 2, 1995, in Liepāja, Latvia, Kristaps was destined for basketball greatness. Both his parents, Tālis and Ingrīda, were former basketball players, and their influence was evident as Kristaps began playing basketball at just six years old. His early years saw him training with his older brother Jānis and playing in youth competitions with BK Liepājas Lauvas. His undeniable talent caught the attention of the Baloncesto Sevilla club, leading to a contract in 2010.
Porzingis’s European career was nothing short of spectacular. He made significant contributions to Sevilla, leading them to numerous victories. His performance in the Liga ACB and the EuroCup, especially against teams like Pallacanestro Virtus Roma and Turów Zgorzelec, was commendable. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed as he received the EuroCup Rising Star Award in 2015.
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 25: Kristaps Porzingis speaks to the media after being selected fourth overall by the New York Knicks in the First Round of the 2015 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 25, 2015 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
The NBA beckoned in 2015 when the New York Knicks selected him as the fourth overall pick. His debut season was promising, earning him the NBA All-Rookie First Team honors. Over the years, he showcased his prowess, setting new career highs and winning the Skills Challenge during the 2017 All-Star Weekend.
However, like all athletes, Porzingis faced challenges. An ACL tear in 2018 sidelined him for the remainder of the season. But he bounced back, and in 2019, he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. His time with the Mavericks has been eventful, from signing a five-year $158 million deal to achieving consecutive 30-point, five-block games, a feat last accomplished by Shaquille O’Neal in 2000.
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 03: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks reacts after a dunk in the fourth quarter against the Phoenix Suns at Madison Square Garden on November 3, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Porzingis’s financial growth in the NBA is noteworthy. His deal with the Mavericks saw his annual salary jump from $5 million to a whopping $30 million. By the end of the 2021-2022 season, his NBA earnings had surpassed $100 million.
KAUNAS, LITHUANIA – MAY 21: Kristaps Porzingis during Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four Kaunas 2023 Championship game Olympiacos Piraeus v Real Madrid at Zalgirio Arena on May 21, 2023 in Kaunas, Lithuania. (Photo by David Grau/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images)
Apart from his basketball achievements, Porzingis has represented Latvia in EuroBasket 2017, where he averaged 23.6 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. Off the court, he’s a polyglot, fluent in English, Latvian, and Spanish, thanks to his time in Seville. He’s also an avid football fan, supporting clubs like Sevilla, FK Liepāja, and Real Madrid.
Kristaps Porzingis’s journey from a young boy in Latvia to an NBA star is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the game. With a net worth of $30 million in 2023, he stands as one of the prominent figures in the NBA, both in terms of skill and financial success. As he continues to play and inspire, his worth, both on and off the court, is bound to increase.
Kristaps Porzingis, the towering Latvian NBA sensation, has made significant strides both on and off the basketball court. As of 2023, his net worth stands at an impressive $30 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. But how did the 7’3″ power forward, who began his basketball journey at the tender age of six, amass such wealth? Let’s delve into his journey.
Born on August 2, 1995, in Liepāja, Latvia, Kristaps was destined for basketball greatness. Both his parents, Tālis and Ingrīda, were former basketball players, and their influence was evident as Kristaps began playing basketball at just six years old. His early years saw him training with his older brother Jānis and playing in youth competitions with BK Liepājas Lauvas. His undeniable talent caught the attention of the Baloncesto Sevilla club, leading to a contract in 2010.
Porzingis’s European career was nothing short of spectacular. He made significant contributions to Sevilla, leading them to numerous victories. His performance in the Liga ACB and the EuroCup, especially against teams like Pallacanestro Virtus Roma and Turów Zgorzelec, was commendable. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed as he received the EuroCup Rising Star Award in 2015.
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 25: Kristaps Porzingis speaks to the media after being selected fourth overall by the New York Knicks in the First Round of the 2015 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 25, 2015 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
The NBA beckoned in 2015 when the New York Knicks selected him as the fourth overall pick. His debut season was promising, earning him the NBA All-Rookie First Team honors. Over the years, he showcased his prowess, setting new career highs and winning the Skills Challenge during the 2017 All-Star Weekend.
However, like all athletes, Porzingis faced challenges. An ACL tear in 2018 sidelined him for the remainder of the season. But he bounced back, and in 2019, he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. His time with the Mavericks has been eventful, from signing a five-year $158 million deal to achieving consecutive 30-point, five-block games, a feat last accomplished by Shaquille O’Neal in 2000.
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 03: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks reacts after a dunk in the fourth quarter against the Phoenix Suns at Madison Square Garden on November 3, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Porzingis’s financial growth in the NBA is noteworthy. His deal with the Mavericks saw his annual salary jump from $5 million to a whopping $30 million. By the end of the 2021-2022 season, his NBA earnings had surpassed $100 million.
KAUNAS, LITHUANIA – MAY 21: Kristaps Porzingis during Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four Kaunas 2023 Championship game Olympiacos Piraeus v Real Madrid at Zalgirio Arena on May 21, 2023 in Kaunas, Lithuania. (Photo by David Grau/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images)
Apart from his basketball achievements, Porzingis has represented Latvia in EuroBasket 2017, where he averaged 23.6 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. Off the court, he’s a polyglot, fluent in English, Latvian, and Spanish, thanks to his time in Seville. He’s also an avid football fan, supporting clubs like Sevilla, FK Liepāja, and Real Madrid.
Kristaps Porzingis’s journey from a young boy in Latvia to an NBA star is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the game. With a net worth of $30 million in 2023, he stands as one of the prominent figures in the NBA, both in terms of skill and financial success. As he continues to play and inspire, his worth, both on and off the court, is bound to increase.
It’s a pretty solid offseason for a team balancing the line between rebuild and contender. However, reportedly, the #10 pick nearly went to Detroit instead of OKC. If that trade had gone through, Dallas would have acquired Bojan Bogdanović as well as the #31 pick. Despite this draft day trade not going through, the Mavs are reportedly still interested in acquiring the veteran.
Mavs Eyeing Bojan
Tim McMahon of ESPN has reportedly “heard some rumblings about revisiting the Bogdanović trade.” It’s unclear who/what could be the other way but, given the prominence of his name in most Mavs rumors, it could see Tim Hardaway Jr. heading to the Pistons. Bogdanović had a great year for the Detroit Pistons. Starting 59 games, Bogdanović put up 21.6/3.8/2.6 per game. Arguably his best season since the 2019-20 campaign, Bogdanović was a veteran contributor as the Pistons continue to rebuild. Bojan would have been third in ppg for the Mavericks last season. Furthermore, his 41.1% from three would be a much-needed deep threat for the Mavericks. The problem will be whether the Mavericks are willing to pay the price that the Pistons are looking for to move Bogdanović.
Per Matt Moore of Action Network, the Detroit Pistons are looking for a first-round pick and multiple second-round picks for Bogdanović. According to Moore, this has put off any potential suitors due to being too steep. When the Pistons traded for Bogdanović in September 2022, they sent Saben Lee and Kelly Olymk to Utah in exchange for him. Granted, Bogdanović led the Pistons with a career-high points per game. However, it’s not like Bogdanović suddenly turned into an MVP. Bradley Beal had better numbers across the board than Bogdanović, but the Wizards didn’t get a first-round pick for him.
