After picking up Tyus Jones in a deal with Orlando on Wednesday, the Hornets have agreed to trade him to the Mavericks, sources tell ESPN’s Shams Charania (Twitter link).
Charlotte will receive Malaki Branham in return while generating a $7MM trade exception. There are no picks involved on either side, adds Christian Clark of The Athletic (Twitter link).
Dallas was hoping to sign Jones last summer in its search for a point guard, but couldn’t compete with the $7MM offer he received from the Magic, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line (Twitter link). The Mavs wound up adding D’Angelo Russell, who is heading to Washington as part of the Anthony Davis deal.
Charlotte agreed to take on Jones’ contract in a salary dump that moved Orlando below the luxury tax line, getting a pair of future second-round picks in return.
Jones struggled with his shot during his time with the Magic, connecting at 32.4% from the field and 29.4% from three-point range in 48 games. But he remains one of the NBA’s most dependable ball-handlers and could have a prominent role with Dallas until Kyrie Irving returns from injury.
Branham was a part-time starter during his first two seasons with San Antonio after being selected with the 20th pick in the 2022 draft, but his playing time has dropped sharply over the past two years. He’s being sent from Washington to Dallas in the Davis trade and is earning $5MM in the final year of his rookie contract.
Mavs don’t want to win, right?
Not this year
Surprised they couldn’t unload gafford for something
Why would they want to trade Gafford? This doesn’t feel like a full rebuild. I hope they keep PJ, Gafford and Marshall. They could be close to competing if Kyrie plays well after coming back.
Branham coming out of college looked like a solid 2way guard. I don’t know what gay. But has not improved much. Was he under Warriors watch or Bulls watch ……. That’ll do it LOLS ….. 😳
Huh?
Why is Miles Bridges still here??!!??