The Dallas Mavericks have acquired Santi Aldama in exchange for A.J. Johnson, a top-20 protected 2030 first-round pick that originally belonged to the Golden State Warriors and two second-round picks, according to DLLS’ Marc Stein.
Aldama, a 7-foot Spaniard, spent the first five years of his NBA career with the Memphis Grizzlies. He averaged 14 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.9 **** ists last season in Memphis while shooting 35% from 3 on 4.7 attempts per game. The 7-footer’s willingness to take 3-pointers will be immensely valuable to the Mavericks, who are building around the rim pressure Cooper Flagg provides.
The Rookie of the Year and Aldama, who is only 25 years old, should show synergy on the hardwood together. The versatile big man showed the ability to play with a slashing guard in Ja Morant and more traditional big men such as Zach Edey and Steven Adams.
He also played more than 2,000 minutes with former Grizzlies power forward Jaren Jackson Jr. A lineup with Mavericks rookie Morez Johnson Jr., Flagg and Aldama should provide unique versatility for Mavericks head coach Dusty May’s offensive scheme.
Aldama will make $17 million this upcoming season, and the Mavericks hold a $17 million team option on him for 2027-28.