How This Trade Impacts Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks would certainly love to acquire Ben Simmons. And, for this price, they would be overjoyed to do so.

Acquiring Simmons would upgrade the team’s defense in a major way. Defense is currently holding the Mavericks back, as their defensive rating has worsened in six consecutive seasons. That streak would certainly come to an end with Simmons on the roster.

Simmons would be able to cover up any deficiencies Dallas may have defensively with his versatility. He is arguably the most versatile defender in the NBA as he can defend every position across the board. That would give Jason Kidd a ton of options when making lineup decisions.

His shortcomings offensively would also be easy to mitigate in Dallas. Whenever Luka Doncic is running the offense, Simmons could operate as more of a big man since Kristaps Porzingis can play on the perimeter. Reggie Bullock would provide good spacing offensively as well.

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Simmons also fits the need for the secondary ball-handler that Dallas is seeking. He is an elite playmaker and holds a distinct advantage over most of his defenders, as he can see right over a majority of them. His presence would allow Doncic to work off the ball even more, making him more dangerous offensively.

Dallas would be taking full advantage of Simmons’s suppressed value as well. They are trading away three key pieces of their rotation, but none are true All-Star caliber game-changers. It is easier to replace Tim Hardaway Jr., Maxi Kleber, and Jalen Brunson than find another Simmons.

Are the 76ers encouraged by this deal? Let’s take a look from their perspective.