Mavericks just sent a loud message by refusing to move coveted trade chips

Dallas Mavericks, Naji Marshall, Max Christie | Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesWith the NBA's trade deadline finally wrapped up, the Dallas Mavericks rounded out their roster by making moves that may not have wowed any fans, but were necessary for the upcoming Cooper Flagg era. For starters, the team would trade away Anthony Davis for a majority of expiring contracts, a few young players, two late first-rounders, and three future second-round picks, but more importantly, the Mavericks established their core around Flagg.

By not trading either Naji Marshall or Max Christie, the Mavericks may have passed up some valuable future first-round picks that teams were likely ready to throw their way, but…