Dallas Mavericks superstar Anthony Davis was one of the most frequently mentioned names in trade buzz before his recent injury. While several teams were linked with the big man, the Atlanta Hawks appeared to be the most likely suitor for the ten-time All-Star.
Since trading Trae Young to the Washington Wizards, the Hawks have been rumored to be in pursuit of further trade opportunities. With Anthony Davis in question, a package including Kristaps Porzingis and Zaccharie Risacher, along with draft capital, seemed appropriate.
Although the Hawks’ interest in Davis has died down since he sustained a left-hand injury, a recent report by NBA insider Marc Stein suggested that the Hawks may be shifting their attention to another Mavericks player.
“The Hawks, league sources say, have been insistent that they were never willing to add former No. 1 overall Zaccharie Risacher to the expiring contracts of Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kennard in an offer for Davis,” Stein wrote. “But I have heard a rival executive or two posit that the teams do have the option of pivoting to a potential Daniel Gafford swap that takes Risacher out of the haggling completely if they wish. Atlanta is said to have some interest in the Dallas big man alongside Indiana and Boston (which had widely explored the trade market for Anfernee Simons).”
Current updates suggest that Davis could be sidelined until March, assuring that he remains with the Mavericks past the trade deadline. Thus, Atlanta’s interest in acquiring Daniel Gafford may prove worthwhile at this stage.
Gafford’s skill makes him a meaningful addition to the Hawks’ lineup. When also considering that he could be playing starter’s minutes, primarily due to Kristaps Porzingis’ inconsistent availability, Atlanta may see increased production out of the big man, effectively strengthening the team’s interior presence.
How Can The Hawks Acquire Daniel Gafford?
Daniel Gafford is currently expected to earn $14.9 million this season, making him a low-cost, high-value pickup. With averages of 7.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, he is also deserving of the trade interest from teams around the league.
Currently, the Hawks have a few ways of approaching trade talks with the Mavericks to acquire Daniel Gafford, according to Stein’s report.
If Atlanta opts not to include Risacher in trade negotiations, a potential trade package of Luke Kennard, Vit Krejci, and a second-round draft pick could be presented to acquire Gafford.
Kennard’s addition could be viewed favorably, since it satisfies the Mavericks’ need for an additional perimeter threat. Although he is underperforming this season, averaging 7.9 points per game on 52.1% shooting from the field and 47.5% from three-point range, he could still be a significant contributor.
Krejci’s acquisition would have upside for the Mavs, too. Considering Dallas’ depleted backcourt depth, adding a combo guard like Krejci could prove meaningful. When also considering that he is averaging 10.1 points and 2.3 rebounds per game while shooting 47.3% from the field and 43.6% from three-point range this season, he could instantly boost the Mavericks’ bench strength.
The other alternative involves the Hawks including Risacher in the trade for Gafford. By virtue of being a former No. 1 overall pick, Atlanta may not need to include any draft compensation as part of this deal. However, given how valuable Gafford is to the Mavericks, a deal may not go through without one.
For the Mavericks, acquiring Risacher presents some merit. The young forward has displayed potential as a versatile two-way player with athletic upside.
This season, he is averaging 11.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 46.2% from the field and 35.8% from three-point range. This is a notable drop-off from his rookie season averages, but this could be attributed to his reduced role in the rotation due to Jalen Johnson’s rise to stardom.
Due to Johnson’s development, reports have suggested that the Hawks have shown an inclination to trade Risacher. This could be viewed favorably by Dallas, which may see some value in pairing the young forward with their rookie phenom, Cooper Flagg. Realistically, however, this could be a counterproductive move for the Mavericks’ future, as it could also stunt Flagg’s growth.
A third, less likely alternative could involve trading Porzingis and a second-round pick to the Mavericks for Gafford, Caleb Martin, and Max Christie.
Porzingis’ $30.7 million expiring contract may have considerable appeal for a rebuilding team like Dallas. Meanwhile, the Hawks would acquire their starting center in this scenario, along with solid players on the wing to boost their overall roster strength.
Theoretically, this trade could work, but neither team may be too intrigued in making this deal. With minimal impact, both sides are likely to keep exploring other options.
Since the interest in acquiring Anthony Davis has waned, the Hawks haven’t seemed too active in making further roster changes. But with roughly three weeks left until the trade deadline, it is difficult to rule out the possibilities of a future trade.
