Chicago Bulls Receive: F/C Maxi Kleber

Dallas Mavericks Receive: G Coby White

At first glance, you may not think this trade makes sense for either side. As with scouting prospects, first glances can be deceiving.

The Dallas Mavericks, like the Chicago Bulls, are in win-now mode. You may be wondering whether they have the patience to wait on White’s development. They may-or-may-not have to.

The Mavericks lost Jalen Brunson in free agency this summer. They need to replace him. The team has been heavily linked to Collin Sexton, but there’s no certainty he’ll land with them in 2022-23.

If he doesn’t, White may be a better option than nothing for the Mavericks. Meanwhile, the Bulls use him to land another defensive-minded big man here. Kleber, like Poeltl, is capable of protecting the rim and surviving in space in the event of a switch.

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If the Bulls reject this deal, it may be because it feels like selling low on White. In that event, this next deal may suit them better.