The Dallas Mavericks have been playing some solid basketball thus far this NBA season. Head coach Jason Kidd has done a good job of helping the team turn things around defensively, which is a big reason for their success.
In seasons past, the Mavericks were reliant on their offense carrying them to victories. This season, their offense has been inconsistent, as numerous players have seen their 3-point shooting percentages drop during the 2021-22 season from the 2020-21 season.
Normally, that lack of offense would doom Dallas, but not this season. The defense has been excellent and it looks like it is not a fluke and here to stay.
As a result, the Mavericks are likely to be aggressive in the trade market. Given the fact that contenders such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets and LA Clippers are having down seasons, there is a chance for Dallas to move up in the standings and become contenders themselves.
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Knowing that their roster is going to be getting a lot more expensive beginning next season, this is the last chance for them to add an impact player to the roster.
Luka Doncic’s max rookie extension kicks in beginning next season and they could go deeper into the tax if they retain unrestricted free agents to be Jalen Brunson and Dorian Finney-Smith.
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However, those two players could be key to the Mavericks swinging a deal at the deadline. According to Marc Stein on his Substack, Dallas is trying to get involved in trade negotiations centered around Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner and Atlanta Hawks big man John Collins.
Dallas has been trying to get into the trade mix for Myles Turner or John Collins. Jalen Brunson and Dorian Finney-Smith, two low-salaried but highly rated Mavericks headed for unrestricted free agency this summer barring contract extensions by June 30, have no shortage of suitors. But Dallas’ ability to swing a significant trade could hinge on its ability to find a trade partner for Tim Hardaway Jr., who is averaging just 14.5 points (his lowest mark in five seasons) and shooting a mere 39.2% from the field and 32.8% from 3-point range after signing a four-year, $75 million contract in August.
Adding either Turner or Collins to the mix would be a huge addition for the Mavericks. The center spot is the one weak spot on the roster, especially if they are intent on using Kristaps Porzingis at the power forward spot.
Myles Turner and John Collins would both be great fits alongside Kristaps Porzingis. Turner can provide some floor spacing on offense to help Doncic operate while also being an elite rim protector. Collins is versatile enough to play either frontcourt spot and is an efficient offensive player.
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There would still be some leg work to be done, as Stein noted with Tim Hardaway Jr. likely needing to be traded. That will be easier said than done, but it is clear that the Mavericks are serious about upgrading the roster ahead of the trade deadline.
