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Mark Cuban Recalls Near-Trade That Almost Sent Kobe Bryant To Dallas
2 months agoUS
In 2007, a blockbuster deal nearly sent Kobe Bryant to the Dallas Mavericks to team up with Dirk Nowitzki. Mavericks owner Mark Cuban recently shared details about how close the trade came to fruition, and how it would have changed NBA history.
Key Insights
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Mark Cuban almost traded Josh Howard, Jason Terry, and two first-round picks for Kobe Bryant in 2007.
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Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak convinced Kobe Bryant to stay with the Lakers, preventing the trade.
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Dirk Nowitzki was willing to be traded to the Lakers for Kobe Bryant, but Cuban wanted to pair them together.
In-Depth Analysis
In April 2026, Mark Cuban revealed how close he was to acquiring Kobe Bryant in 2007. During trade talks with the Lakers, Cuban offered Josh Howard, Jason Terry, and two first-round picks for Bryant.
The trade discussions occurred while Cuban was participating on 'Dancing with the Stars.' He negotiated with Kobe's agent, Rob Pelinka, and Lakers owner Jerry Buss. According to Cuban, Buss was ready to approve the trade, but Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak intervened and persuaded Bryant to remain with the Lakers.
Dirk Nowitzki was willing to be traded for Bryant, but Cuban insisted on pairing the two stars together. The potential duo of Bryant and Nowitzki could have led the Mavericks to multiple championships. Ultimately, Bryant stayed with the Lakers, winning two more titles in 2009 and 2010, while Nowitzki led the Mavericks to their only championship in 2011.
FAQs
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Q: What was the Mavericks' offer for Kobe Bryant?
The Mavericks offered Josh Howard, Jason Terry, and two first-round picks.
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Q: Why did Kobe Bryant not go to the Mavericks?
Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak convinced Bryant to stay in Los Angeles.
Key Takeaways
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The near-trade of Kobe Bryant to the Mavericks highlights the unpredictable nature of NBA roster building.
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The potential pairing of Bryant and Nowitzki could have created one of the most formidable duos in NBA history.
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Mitch Kupchak's intervention preserved the legacies of both Bryant and Nowitzki, each leading their respective teams to championship glory.
Discussion
Do you think this trade would have resulted in multiple championships for the Mavericks? Share this with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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