The NBA season is still young. Most teams have only played a handful of games. With that said, we’re getting to a point in the year where teams can look at their results. It’s time for teams to ask themselves whether they’re happy with their season so far.
The Dallas Mavericks must be thrilled. This team is off to a torrid start in 2023-24. A look at their roster suggests the need for some upgrades.
The Mavericks could use a 3-and-D wing. That’s fine. Dallas has the assets to make an upgrade if they desire to do so. On the other hand, it’s been a lackluster start for the Charlotte Hornets.
We’re not saying that this team should rush into any moves. Their start hasn’t been catastrophic. Still, if the Hornets don’t appear to be on track for a playoff appearance, they could make some changes.
Could they send PJ Washington to the Mavericks?
NBA Trade Proposal: Dallas Mavericks Land Charlotte Hornets’ PJ Washington
Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Richaun Holmes, F/C Maxi Kleber, 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: F/C PJ Washington, G Ish Smith
Of course, teams had some idea of where they likely stood before the season got underway. Every team knows how good they are on paper. Now, they’re starting to get an idea of who they are in practice.
Should the Mavericks be shocked by their hot start? No. Luka Doncic is one of the best players in the NBA. Kyrie Irving isn’t far behind him. A team doesn’t roster two superstars without high expectations. The Mavericks should simply be glad to be meeting that high bar.
Should the Hornets be panicking? No. At the same time, they should be doing some soul-searching. Charlotte surely hoped to be more competitive. Still, nobody thought they’d be world-beaters, either. This is a team worth monitoring as the season wears on. Should they trade Washington if they don’t turn it around?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
The Hornets do this deal for the first-round pick. There’s no mystery here. That’s basically their entire motive. If they’re below .500 leading up to the deadline, they might as well operate as a rebuilding team.
With that in mind, they shouldn’t worry about the contracts they’re taking on here. Kleber is on a long-term deal, but it’s extremely moveable. Meanwhile, Holmes’ contract will soon expire. Either way, neither is a significant burden on this team’s cap sheet.
Does losing Washington sting? You bet. On the other hand, the Hornets dragged their feet before extending him this summer.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets, Dallas Mavericks Updates
Moreover, Miles Bridges is due to return soon – he can cover for Washington’s spot in the rotation. If the Hornets continue to underwhelm, they may want to seek assets.
Should the Mavericks give an asset up?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal
What do the Mavericks need? They could use a stretch big man. A multi-positional defender would be helpful as well. More than anything, another knockdown shooter who doesn’t need the ball could be beneficial for this squad.
Who is Washington? Check, check, and check. This is not a superstar player. Washington doesn’t routinely create his own shot. Still, he’s developed into one of the better utility players in the NBA. Washington is an extremely well-rounded player who would make for a meaningful addition to this rotation.
Meanwhile, he’s coming at the cost of zero rotation guys. Kleber has been dealing with health concerns this year – he’s not in the rotation, and neither is Holmes.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets, Dallas Mavericks Updates
As a win-now team, the Mavericks shouldn’t mind parting with an unprotected first to land a quality player. That could help them turn a hot start into a successful season.
