NBA Rumors: Rivals Expect Mavericks Big Man To Become Available

About a month ago, rumors emanating from Dallas had their big offseason acquisition, Christian Wood, being unhappy with his role on the team. He'd been serving as the sixth man, and was averaging just just 24 minutes per game. He was petitioning for more in comments to the media. 

And while his minutes have ticked up since then, there are many observers around the league who feel that the situation is still uneasy. 

As noted by Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report: 

Rival teams have begun monitoring what the Dallas Mavericks intend to do with center Christian Wood. Dallas has yet to show any indication that he has been made available for a trade, but some teams believe that could change soon.

In addition to his playing time issues, the other circumstance that could lead to a possible Wood trade would be the fact that he's on an expiring contract, and will be eligible for up to a four-year, $77M extension. 

Are the Mavericks intending to extend Wood? The 27-year-old is averaging a solid 17.2 points and 8.1 rebounds along with a 38.7% rate from long distance (though his 3-point shooting has slipped somewhat lately). 

Luka Doncic says his fit with Wood is a work in progress. 

Luka Doncic on chemistry building with Christian Wood: "I think he's still in the process. It's way better than it was, just trying to help him, him trying to help me. We just got to communicate. That's what J-Kidd always says. Communication is key, so we got to do that more." pic.twitter.com/6BmLRb7rya

— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) December 22, 2022

"I think it's still in the process. It's way better than it was, just trying to help him, him trying to help me. We just got to communicate. That's what J-Kidd always says. Communication is key, so we got to do that more."

Photo: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports