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Mavs Can Utilize MLE After Blazers Match Offer for Matisse Thybulle

Originally posted on Hoops Wire | By Sam Amico | Last updated 7/7/23

The Mavericks remain $10.9 million under the first apron of the salary cap — sometimes referred to as the “hard cap” — after the Trail Blazers decided to match a three-year, $33 million offer to guard Matisse Thybulle, as relayed by Tim MacMahon of ESPN.

Also, center Richaun Holmes, acquired in a deal with the Kings, waived his trade-kicker, MacMahon reported, leaving Dallas with its full mid-level exception. In other words, it’s highly likely Mavs GM Nico Harrison is still looking to make a trade.

One reported candidate is guard/forward Tim Hardaway Jr., as we relayed here. Hoops Wire has learned that the Hornets and Bulls are among those with an interest.

Along with re-signing star guard Kyrie Irving, the Mavs agreed to a trade for Celtics forward Grant Williams, sending forward Reggie Bullock to the Spurs. Dallas is also said to remain active in the free agent market, though any further signings are likely to come after the Mavs are done trying to deal.

Mavs C Richaun Holmes waived his $1.8 million trade kicker, sources told ESPN. That allowed the Mavs to beef up the offer sheet to Matisse Thybulle, but Portland opted to match. Mavs still have MLE to use and are $10.9M under the first apron/hard cap, per @BobbyMarks42.

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) July 7, 2023