IT IS DONE: Mavericks predicted to trade $40 million NBA Finals starter The Mavericks may be forced to move on from a key piece from their run to the…….. See more
A Critical Contributor — But an Expensive One
Hardaway Jr., while not the top star on the roster, played a valuable role off the bench and occasionally in the starting five throughout the Mavericks’ playoff run. His shooting streaks helped lift Dallas in pivotal moments, but questions around his consistency and defensive liabilities have made his sizable contract a topic of concern for the front office.
Signed to a 4-year, $75 million deal back in 2021, Hardaway is owed over $16 million in the 2024-25 season — a figure that looms large as the team looks to build a stronger supporting cast around Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.
Cap Space and Contention: The Dilemma
The Mavericks’ front office, led by GM Nico Harrison, is now staring down a tight salary cap situation. With Dončić’s supermax extension kicking in and Irving locked into a high-paying deal, Dallas has little flexibility unless they move contracts. Trading Hardaway Jr. could be the most realistic option to free up cap space or add pieces better tailored to the team’s two-superstar system.
NBA cap analyst Keith Smith echoed the sentiment in a recent interview:
“Dallas has a window, but it’s small. Luka is only getting better, and Kyrie looked reinvigorated this year. They can’t afford to be stuck in cap purgatory. Moving Hardaway Jr. may be necessary, even if it means attaching a pick.”
Potential Suitors and Trade Scenarios
Several teams in need of veteran shooting and playoff experience could express interest in Hardaway Jr., especially those with cap space or trade exceptions. Rumored destinations include:
Orlando Magic: A young team in need of floor spacing and playoff-tested players.
Detroit Pistons: Rebuilding but looking for veteran presence and scoring punch.
Brooklyn Nets: Could use experienced depth while maneuvering through a transitional phase.
Some NBA insiders have suggested that Dallas may try to attach a second-round pick or a young asset like Jaden Hardy to sweeten a deal.
A Necessary Sacrifice?
Letting go of a key Finals contributor is never easy — especially one who helped propel the team through tough Western Conference matchups. But in today’s NBA, flexibility and fit are often more valuable than loyalty. If Dallas wants to return to the Finals and finish the job next time, making difficult roster decisions like this one may be unavoidable.
For now, Mavericks fans will wait to see if the rumors become reality. But as of now, all signs point to the end of Tim Hardaway Jr.’s time in Dallas. It is done — the Mavericks are ready to move forward
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