NBA Rumors: Mavericks Open To Short Extension With 2nd-Leading Scorer

The Dallas Mavericks will have a big decision to make come the trade deadline, just about five weeks from now. They're at risk of possibly losing their No. 2 scorer for the second straight year this summer. Christian Wood is eligible for free agency at the end of the season, but is eligible now for a 4-year extension worth $77M.

The Mavs, however, are said to be willing to offer only a 2-year deal for less than half that total. The word from Tim MacMahon of ESPN is that the Mavericks are now ready to offer Wood a 2-year extension worth $36M. There's some doubt if that would get it done.

On the subject of the 4-year extension he's now eligible for, Wood told MacMahon, "I'm happy to be here. That's what I'll say. The vibe is good. ... I'm open to it."

And when asked if it was necessary that a 4-year commitment be made to get him to sign, he laughed and said, "I can't answer that."

Wood has come in and been the ultimate team player. He started the season as a 6th Man, playing less minutes than he's been used to. That's all changed as he's proven his worth, and he's been in the starting lineup for the past nine games. The Mavs are 7-2 since Wood joined the starting unit, including a seven-game win streak.