Often, an NBA trade is born out of mutual need. Do you need a defensive big man? Great. We need some draft capital. Let’s make a deal.
Look at the Dallas Mavericks. They need a defensive big. Perhaps that’s why they’ve been linked to almost every rim protector with any chance of being available this summer.
Alternatively, Dallas may not need to break the bank. This team has brought Richaun Holmes and Derrick Lively III in this summer. Could they settle on a more affordable upgrade to their big man rotation? An upgrade like Al Horford of the Boston Celtics, for example?
The Trade Proposal
Boston Celtics Receive: F/C Maxi Kleber, Multiple Second-Round Picks
Dallas Mavericks Receive: F/C Al Horford
A couple of short years ago, this deal would have been unthinkable. Dallas would have to give up a lot more to even consider moving Horford.
After all, he was integral to their defense. Horford was a strong rim protector who could defend in space. Meanwhile, his connective passing gave Boston some extra playmaking on offense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Al Horford, Dallas Mavericks & Boston Celtics Updates
On the other hand, Horford looked a bit compromised in last year’s playoffs. This is an aging player. Horford may never be critical to a playoff run again. Of course, an NBA trade is born out of mutual need. The Celtics may not need Horford anymore. Do the Mavericks?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal
Well, Dallas wouldn’t be trading for their new starting big man with this deal. They’d have a committee at the center position. Richaun Holmes is a solid player. He fell out of Sacramento’s rotation last year, but that felt like a stylistic choice. He’s a passable rim running, rim-protecting big man.
Derrick Lively III may get some opportunities too. In other words, Dallas may not need an elite defensive big. If they agree, Horford would give them an interesting wrinkle.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Al Horford, Dallas Mavericks & Boston Celtics Updates
Sure, he may be aging. He’s still a solid defensive presence and a high-feel offensive player. He could be the missing piece for the Mavericks. Should the Celtics part with him?
Why The Boston Celtics Do The Deal
Well, the Celtics wouldn’t need to replace Horford. They already have. The Celtics acquired Kristaps Porzingis this summer. He’s functionally similar to Horford, but he’s much younger. At this point, he’ll take the bulk of Horford’s minutes next season.
With that in mind, why not downgrade? The Celtics are landing a pair of second-round picks for their troubles here. Those are decent assets that they could use down the road.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Al Horford, Dallas Mavericks & Boston Celtics Updates
At the same time, Kleber is valuable in his own right. He’s a fairly versatile defender who offers a little bit of floor spacing. For Boston, this deal is about getting some assets for Horford without destroying their rotation. In other words, this one suits both teams needs.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
