Making the Case: Dallas Mavericks’ Perspective
The Dallas Mavericks have long sought to be players in free agency and even attempted to make a run at Kyle Lowry in free agency last offseason. Of course, the Mavericks came up empty in their pursuit of Lowry as he signed with the Miami Heat.
In order to land a high-level talent, the Mavericks may need to turn to the trade market. The upcoming free agency class is weak—further lowering their chances of attracting a star. Jalen Brunson is among the more intriguing names in this class–raising the potential threat level of a rival team throwing an irresistible offer at him in free agency.
One target that could be an available option is Charlotte Hornets’ Gordon Hayward. His contract understandably could cause hesitation for potential suitors, but the combination of shooting, playmaking, and shot creation he brings is not easy to find.
The injury history that Hayward faces causes a decline in his appeal as a trade option. The Mavericks have experienced firsthand the limitations of dealing with a star with consistent injury problems with Kristaps Porzingis. Again, there’s no guarantee Jalen Brunson returns, so there could be added reason to consider this type of risk.
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If the Mavericks could flip their first-round pick for a veteran wing like Hayward in a deal that moves Davis Bertan’s contract in the process, it would add further incentive to taking the risk.