The first trade of deadline day in the NBA in 2022 featured the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors. The Spurs acquired Goran Dragic from the Raptors, along with a top-14 protected first-round pick, in exchange for Thaddeus Young, Drew Eubanks, and a 2022 second-round pick via the Detroit Pistons.
This is something that Dragic has been waiting months for. He was disappointed to end up with the Toronto Raptors as part of the sign-and-trade deal that landed Kyle Lowry with the Miami Heat.
Dragic played five games with the Raptors but had been away from the team since, for personal reasons. It would not be surprising to see him back on the court soon, but it will not be with the Spurs.
According to NBA Analysis Network’s own Evan Massey, the San Antonio Spurs and Goran Dragic are expected to work on a buyout, which will make him a free agent. The Dallas Mavericks, who have been connected to Dragic for months, are who he is expected to end up with.
That is a report that Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN also shared a few minutes later. In addition to the Mavericks, Wojnarowski also said the Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, and LA Clippers are expected to show interest in Goran Dragic once he becomes a free agent.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Raptors, Spurs Complete Trade Centered Around Dragic, Young
The Bucks just opened up a roster spot in a four-team deal with the Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons, and Clippers so they will certainly be active on the buyout market. But, it would be a bit surprising if Dragic doesn’t end up with the Dallas Mavericks.
Dragic has a good relationship with Luka Doncic and Dallas has a need for him. They have been relying almost exclusively on Doncic and Jalen Brunson to run their offense. With Brunson joining the starting lineup, the bench has needed a facilitator, a role Dragic could fill.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Raptors, Spurs Complete Trade Centered Around Dragic, Young
At 35 going on 36-years old, Goran Dragic has lost a step or two but has proven he can be a steady contributor when healthy. He was good with the Heat last season and should thrive as the third guard in the rotation in Dallas.
