The NBA is a star’s league. If you’re trying to predict a team’s success, it’s likely to start at the top. The best two or three players on a team can have more impact than the rest of the roster combined.
With that in mind, the Dallas Mavericks should be sitting pretty. Luka Doncic is one of the best players in the NBA. His ability to set up teammates with open looks is elite. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving is one of the most talented offensive guards in league history. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better duo than these two.
Yet, depth has to count for something. The Mavericks could use a better third option. Ideally, that player would be a two-way wing who can create his own shot. Why not Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers?
The Trade Proposal
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G/F Tim Hardaway Jr., F/C Maxi Kleber, G/F Josh Green, 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: F Jerami Grant
Perhaps the Trail Blazers should have taken notes from the Mavericks. They’ve had their star player in place for a long time. They never found him an appropriate co-star. Now, Damian Lillard wants a trade.
Notice that we said “appropriate” co-star. Lillard had a partner in crime. For years, C.J. McCollum joined him to form one of the most talented backcourts in the NBA. Unfortunately, the duo had problems. As a pair of small guards, Lillard and McCollum struggled defensively. They never got over the hump, and now, the Blazers are paying for it.
NBA NEWS, TRADES & RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers & Dallas Mavericks Updates
Having talent isn’t enough. A team needs talent that fits together logically. With that in mind, the Mavericks’ work isn’t done. They need players that complement Doncic and Irving. Would Grant be a good choice?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal
He certainly would. Realistically, Grant is the type of player who compliments any roster. He can guard multiple positions, space the floor, and create his own shit when need be. Portland erred if they thought he’d be a sufficient second option behind Lillard, but Grant is well-equipped for third-option duties.
Meanwhile, Dallas shouldn’t have any qualms about paying this price for him. They’ll miss Hardaway Jr., but his movement shooting isn’t nearly as valuable as Grant’s well-rounded game. Age appeared to be catching up to Kleber last year. Furthermore, Green may be as expendable to them as anyone.
NBA NEWS, TRADES & RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers & Dallas Mavericks Updates
After all, he’ll be due for a contract extension next summer. The Mavericks may not be in any position to give it to him. Green has some value, but his offensive game remains unpolished, and Dallas is in win-now mode. Should Portland want to develop Green?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
One could argue that the Blazers failed Lillard. Others will say that he should have been more patient with them. It doesn’t matter now. Lillard has requested a trade, and the Blazers need to look to the future.
As it stands, it already looks fairly bright. Scoot Henderson has franchise player potential, and Shaedon Sharpe has star potential in his own right. Anfernee Simons already produced at a star level – if Portland keeps him. If they move him, they’ll get plenty of assets to help the rebuild along.
NBA NEWS, TRADES & RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers & Dallas Mavericks Updates
What Portland lacks are young defensive wings. Green fits the bill. He’s a sensible addition to this roster. Still, Portland is doing this trade for the first-round pick above all else. If they’re lucky, they could end up using it to draft a star player.
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