2. Dallas Mavericks
After coming into the 2021-22 season with extra weight and dealing with a variety of ankle sprains, Luka Doncic has found his form in a major way for the Dallas Mavericks. He’s playing at the MVP level that many expected him to be at when he was named the preseason favorite for the honor.
One of the key reasons the Mavericks have experienced success throughout the season has been the presence of a secondary ball handler next to Doncic. Jalen Brunson has filled this role quite nicely and will be due for a major payday in free agency as a result.
A key limitation that Brunson faces in his skill-set, however, is a lack of dynamic and consistent perimeter shot creation ability. He tends to do most of damage when getting to the rim and from mid-range while also facing struggles against long wings defenders.
CJ McCollum has filled the role of backcourt co-star next to Damian Lillard with the Portland Trail Blazers at a high-level for many years now. Next to Doncic, he could raise the ceiling of the team’s offenses in a major way.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pelicans Primed To Pull Off Trade For Blazers’ CJ McCollum?
It has been a struggle for the Mavericks to land the talents they’ve sought when going ‘big game hunting’ in free agency. The trade route appears to be a must, and this would be a prime way of getting it done.
