Remember the trade deadline? The Dallas Mavericks were scrambling to bolster their roster, with Kyle Kuzma a top target. Well, Kuzma had other plans. He reportedly turned down the trade, believing the Mavs weren’t true contenders. Fast forward to today, and guess who’s laughing?

The Mavericks, fresh off their Western Conference Finals victory, are heading to the NBA Finals to face the Boston Celtics. Luka Doncic and company are 4 wins away from basketball glory, a feat many (including maybe Kuzma) doubted possible at the deadline.

While Kuzma is left watching the Finals from the couch, the Mavericks are reaping the rewards of their alternative moves. P.J. Washingtоn and Daniel Gafford, acquired instead of Kuzma, provided a defensive boost that proved crucial in the playoffs.

This turn of events has “buyer’s remorse” written all over it for Kuzma. While his future with the Wizards is uncertain, one thing’s for sure: he’ll be watching the Finals with a heavy dose of “what if.” The Mavericks, meanwhile, will be chasing that championship ring, a constant reminder that they bet on themselves – and won.