Kyrie Irving. Is there a more polarizing star in the NBA? Nobody can predict what Irving will do. Yet, we try. For some time, plenty of folks were expecting him to reunite with LeBron James on the Los Angeles Lakers.
Even after the Dallas Mavericks traded for him, we speculated. Irving was on an expiring contract. Trading for him was a risky decision on the Mavericks’ behalf. Irving could have easily left to join James in Los Angeles. He didn’t, and now, Mavericks fans can rest easy.
To an extent, that is. This team still has work to do. The Mavericks need to put a better-supporting cast around Irving and Luka Doncic. Perhaps they could look to the Lakers to make a trade after all.
Could they send them Rui Hachimura?
NBA Trade Proposal — Dallas Mavericks Land Rui Hachimura
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G/F Tim Hardaway Jr., 2027 First-Round Pick (Top 10 Protected – DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: F Rui Hachimura
LeBron James. Is there a less polarizing star in the NBA? Sure, he’s still polarizing – that’s the nature of stardom. Yet, James’ greatness is as close to consensus as one could possibly hope.
The only exception comes when comparing him to Michael Jordan. Suddenly, tempers will flare. Older fans will often protest. Jordan was 6-0 in the Finals – how can James compete?
On the other hand, James has been to the Finals a stifling 10 times. Doesn’t he deserve credit for even getting to the big dance?
NBA TRADES & RUMORS: Rui Hachimura, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks Updates
In the end, it’s a debate that will rage on for years to come. With that said, it isn’t settled yet. James is still active. In all likelihood, he’s hoping to win another NBA title before he’s done.
Does this deal help with that goal?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do This Deal
It might. On the other hand, it might not. Hardaway Jr. should be a downgrade from Hachmura. That’s why the Lakers are getting a protected first-rounder here.
At the same time, this could make them a better team. After all, Taurean Prince could be a fine substitute for Hachimura. He’s not as dynamic of a shot creator, but he’s a more consistent floor spacer and likely a better defender as well.
Meanwhile, this team could use a movement shooter like Hardaway Jr. The Lakers will want to wait and see on this one – and they’ll have to. They can’t move Hachimura until closer to the deadline.
NBA TRADES & RUMORS: Rui Hachimura, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks Updates
They may want to hang onto him if he’s playing to the same level as he did in the 2022-23 playoffs. On the other hand, if he regresses, this deal could make sense for them. Does it make sense for Dallas?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do This Deal
The Mavericks didn’t strictly retain Irving this summer. They also acquired Grant Williams via free agency. That was a great decision, but Dallas could use another big, athletic wing.
Why not Hachimura? Sure, he’s not the most reliable floor spacer. Still, Hachimura will give the Mavericks a boost on the defensive end. His ability to create his own shot could make him a third option here as well.
After Doncic and Irving, the Mavericks don’t need a superstar to carry more offense – Hachimura will do. Meanwhile, Dallas doesn’t need to be stingy with their draft capital. If they can upgrade their team, they should do it.
NBA TRADES & RUMORS: Rui Hachimura, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks Updates
Adding a potential building block like Hachimura is worth the cost of a protected first. The Mavericks should be contending for a while – as long as Irving sticks around, that is.
