First step to the blockbuster is signing the talent before it gets away, by biting the bullet and re-signing Chandler, Butler, and Barea. We have to make sure the salaries won’t kill the deals by being too high or too low. Also, picking up Cardinal and Stevenson will help us fill out the roster without too much expense. Stevenson probably wants more and we shouldn’t pay more since we won’t have the CAP to do it.
First blockbuster would be based on Chandler and Butler for Dwight Howard during the next year before Orlando loses any value for the all-star, and Howard likes Dallas. This improves our front court and removes the conflict at SF, Marion gets to start again, which worked out very well in the finals. Of course building up Butler’s value during the season before the trade, is important.
Second blockbuster would be based on Barea and (either Roddy or DoJo) for Deron Williams, who also likes Dallas. This trade will need more and the Nets have been willing trading partners in the past. This gives us our starting PG going forward and let’s Kidd retire knowing the team is in good hands. Stevenson could sweeten this deal if we are able to sign him, but most likely we will be dealing with picks and cash to make it happen before the summer.
After the blockbusters, the Mavs have Howard, Nowitzki, Marion(Butler), Beaubois(Jones), Williams as the starting lineup, with Haywood, Cardinal, Brewer, Terry for 2nd string, leaving us a hole at backup PG unless a draft pick steps up to perform. Another option here could be to pick up Steve Nash, summer 2012, for a year or two so he can end his career in Dallas where he started, like Kidd. But until the summer we will need someone from the draft or FA to fill the PG or G backup role, shifting Terry to backup PG if needed, or sharing the role with Beaubois(Jones).
Lastly, filling the rest of the roster may be approached the same as this past year, find past 1st rounders and international players that are available for the minimum or a bit more. The Mavs will look to be a contender for the next decade and could win many more titles. Go Mavs!