Fri Apr 10 03:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Blockbuster Trade That Never Was: How Mitch Kupchak Saved the Lakers

The Story:

In 2007, a near-blockbuster trade almost sent Kobe Bryant to the Dallas Mavericks, pairing him with Dirk Nowitzki. Mavericks owner Mark Cuban revealed on April 7, 2026, that the deal was close to fruition. Negotiated amidst Cuban’s participation in ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ the proposed trade involved Josh Howard, Jason Terry, and two first-round draft picks for Bryant. While Lakers owner Jerry Buss was reportedly on board, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak intervened, convincing Bryant to remain in Los Angeles, altering the course of NBA history.

Dirk Nowitzki was aware of the trade talks and even offered himself as a trade piece to acquire Bryant, but Cuban insisted on pairing the two superstars. Bryant’s potential move was driven by frustration with the Lakers’ direction post-Shaquille O’Neal. The Lakers, instead, rebuilt around Bryant, acquiring Pau Gasol and winning two more championships in 2009 and 2010. Nowitzki led the Mavericks to a championship in 2011.

Key Points:

  • In 2007, Kobe Bryant was almost traded to the Dallas Mavericks.
  • Mark Cuban negotiated the deal while participating on ‘Dancing with the Stars’.
  • The Mavericks’ offer included Josh Howard, Jason Terry, and two first-round draft picks.
  • Lakers owner Jerry Buss was initially ready to approve the trade.
  • Mitch Kupchak convinced Bryant to stay with the Lakers.
  • Dirk Nowitzki offered himself to be traded for Kobe.
  • The Lakers acquired Pau Gasol in 2008, leading to two NBA championships.

Key Takeaways:

  • The near-trade highlights the unpredictable nature of NBA roster building and the impact of last-minute interventions.
  • Mitch Kupchak’s intervention preserved Kobe Bryant’s legacy with the Lakers and altered the trajectory of both franchises.
  • Mark Cuban’s aggressive pursuit of superstar talent is a defining characteristic of his ownership of the Mavericks.
  • The failed trade underscores the significance of player-GM relationships in shaping team futures.
  • The story serves as a compelling “what-if” scenario in NBA history, sparking ongoing debates among fans and analysts.

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