The Dallas Mavericks have had a successful NBA offseason. Can they keep their winning streak going? The most important thing for this team heading into the offseason was to retain Kyrie Irving. Mission accomplished. Irving re-signed with the team quickly in free agency.
The next task was to strengthen the team around Irving and Luka Doncic. The Mavericks have done well in that regard, too. Grant Williams will be a great acquisition for this club.
The Mavericks may still need a defensive anchor. Would the recently acquired Richaun Holmes suffice? Or, will Dallas look to acquire an upgrade at the 5? If so, could Ivica Zubac of the Los Angeles Clippers do the trick?
The Trade Proposal
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: C JaVale McGee, G/F Josh Green, 2027 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: C Ivica Zubac
By contrast, the Los Angeles Clippers have had a quiet summer. Sure, they retained Russell Westbrook. The dollar amount on that deal was solid. Westbrook will be a productive player at the cost the Clippers paid to retain him.
They kept Mason Plumlee as well. That was another sensible decision. Still, the Clippers haven’t added anyone of note outside of KJ Martin.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Ivica Zubac, Dallas Mavericks & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Will they? Frankly, it’s hard to get a read on what the Clippers might do. Paul George is said to be available. All told, this is a team that appears torn between rebuilding and staying the course. Does this deal help?
Why The Los Angeles Clippers Do The Deal
The KJ Martin acquisition was somewhat interesting. Obviously, the Clippers have some interest in getting younger. Is that because they’re rebuilding? Who can say? It’s also possible that the Clippers simply wanted to get some youth and athleticism in the door. If so, they’ll like this trade.
After all, Josh Green provides plenty of each. He’s a high-energy hustle player who defends well. If his shot rounds into form, this could be a steal for the Clippers.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Ivica Zubac, Dallas Mavericks & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
On the other hand, this deal doesn’t likely make them better on a short-term basis. That’s exactly why they’re landing a lottery-protected first here as well. That’s a good return for Zubac. Should the Mavericks offer it?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do the Deal
Meanwhile, there is no ambiguity about what the Mavericks are doing this season. They’re trying to win. After all, they just brought Irving back. Luka Doncic is only now interesting his prime. The Mavericks need to strike while the iron is hot.
So far, they have. Williams was a good acquisition. Dallas also gave defensive ace Matisse Thybulle an offer sheet: albeit, the Portland Trail Blazers matched it.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Ivica Zubac, Dallas Mavericks & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Still, this team could use an upgrade at the 5. Zubac would give them one. He’d be the best defensive big man on their roster from day one. Adding him would be a nice finishing touch on what’s been a great summer for Dallas.
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