Building an NBA franchise requires a lot of gambling. Every general manager has their cards – and in the immoral words of Kenny Rogers, you’ve got to know when to hold them, and know when to fold them. 

Of course, every GM in the league is aiming to eventually build a contending roster. With that said, some have a hand that’s worth betting on, and some don’t. Going all-in on a pair of 2s is a safe way to walk away from the table empty-handed. 

Arguably, the most important card to hold is a franchise player. If you’ve got someone on your roster who finds himself in top-5 conversations, you should feel secure in making a big bet. 

The Dallas Mavericks have such a player. With Luka Doncic on this roster, there’s no reason for the Mavericks not to put it all on the table. Yet, somehow, Doncic does not have a credible co-star.

On the other hand, the Chicago Bulls don’t have a player garnering serious top-5 consideration, yet they’ve committed to assembling the most talented roster they can. 

Here’s a deal that sees both sides basing a decision around their top-end talent. 

Chicago Bulls Receive: G/F Tim Hardaway Jr., F Dorian Finney-Smith, 2025 First-Round Pick (DAL), 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL) 

Dallas Mavericks Receive: G/F DeMar DeRozan