The Golden State Warriors are facing a pivotal offseason after losing key player Kevon Looney to the New Orleans Pelicans and potentially losing Gary Payton II as well. With a core that includes Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler, the Warriors have not made significant moves to strengthen their roster. Instead, they are left with an aging core that may see diminishing returns without reinforcements.

On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks are preparing for the return of Kyrie Irving and have already signed D'Angelo Russell, but they also appear to be targeting Payton II as a potential addition to enhance their backcourt defense alongside an impressive core that includes Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and No. 1 overall draft pick Cooper Flagg.