Thybulle is reportedly signing an offer sheet with Dallas. I would expect Portland to match, unless they come up with a sign-and-trade.
Is it fair to assume this is for the full MLE ($12.4M)? They can still use that in full, right? If I was POR, I am not sure I would match. He is not really a build around Lillard piece and not really a build for the future piece, what would be the point?
Eliminates one of the few remaining options for Grant.
It's going to be a bit less than the full MLE. And as for Grant, as we discussed in a different thread, the Mavs were also going to look into a sign-and-trade involving a third team for him, so I don't think this changes too much. They've been trying to move THJ, and signing another wing only makes that more likely. When he's traded, they'll be able to offer Grant something if they're still interested.
If they are able to move Hardaway and get a TPE, they still would have to work out a trade with the Celtics, right? They would not be able to make a direct offer to Grant if they use most of their MLE on Thybulle, is that correct? This at least assures that the Celtics get something they like for Grant, otherwise they probably end up with Grant on the QO or match if someone else ponies up a MLE offer. The only team with non-MLE money left is SAS, as I understand it, and I don't see them using that to overpay Grant.
To do all that to get Grant, they must really like his fit with Luka and Kyrie. Fine, I am sure the Celtics can work out something favorable.