The Dallas Mavericks did an excellent job of reshaping their frontcourt this NBA offseason. They made two solid additions at the center position, acquiring Christian Wood from the Houston Rockets in a trade and signing JaVale McGee in free agency.
Unfortunately for them, another need quickly arose during free agency.
Jalen Brunson surprisingly departed from the team, signing a four-year deal with the New York Knicks to become their new starting point guard.
It was something that certainly surprised some people as the Mavericks were adamant that they would be able to retain Brunson regardless of how hard the Knicks made a push for him.
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They overestimated in that regard, as the Knicks snagged their guy. While New York is being investigated for tampering, being found guilty won’t help Dallas replace Brunson. Based on previous examples of being found guilty of tampering, it will only cost the Knicks some draft compensation.
With that in mind, the Mavericks will have to get creative when attempting to replace Brunson in the lineup. He was easily their second-best player on the floor in the postseason and whenever Luka Doncic was sidelined, he stepped up to help replace the missing production.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dallas Mavericks Updates
Right now, Dallas is projected to replace Brunson with Spencer Dinwiddie in the starting lineup. Alas, depth is a major issue as Frank Ntilikina is the only other ball handler on the roster. Even if Jason Kidd staggers Doncic and Dinwiddie, the Mavericks are one injury away from things getting very ugly.
Where could they look for some backcourt help? Here are three trade scenarios that the Mavericks could consider to help replace Brunson.
