Dallas Mavericks Receive: F/C Wendell Carter Jr.
Orlando Magic Receive: C Dwight Powell, G/F Josh Green, No. 26 Pick in 2022 NBA Draft
This is a deal that cannot be completed until the 2022 NBA Draft. Because of the Stepien Rule, the Dallas Mavericks cannot trade this year’s draft pick as they would go back-to-back years without a selection. Their 2023 first-rounder is heading to the New York Knicks from the Kristaps Porzingis trade.
In this scenario, the Dallas Mavericks address their glaring need for a big man by acquiring Wendell Carter Jr. Carter is an excellent rebounder, averaging a career-high 10.5 per game this season despite playing only 29.9 minutes per game.
Dallas got hammered on the glass by the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals and needs to address that if they want to truly breakthrough. Carter also provides a scoring threat, averaging 15 points per game with improving 3-point range.
This may seem like a little bit of an underwhelming package for the Orlando Magic to receive, but it is more about clearing future cap space to re-sign Mo Bamba. Dwight Powell is on an expiring deal and Josh Green is on his rookie contract.
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Powell can be a veteran mentor for the young guys on the team and provide spot minutes at the 5 spot. Green would have a better chance at developing his skill set with the rebuilding Magic that he won’t be afforded with the Mavericks.
