The Dallas Mavericks (18-13) currently hold the 6th position in the Western Conference. As we assess the season’s performance thus far, it becomes evident that for Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to elevate the team to true contender status, additional support is essential.
In this comprehensive guide for the February Trade Deadline, we will delve into potential trade candidates, identify realistic targets, and highlight the untouchable players that could shape the Mavericks’ strategic moves in their quest for contention.
Trade Candidates
– Tim Hardaway Jr. ($17.8M), Richaun Holmes ($12.0M), Maxi Kleber ($11.0M), Josh Green ($4.7M), Seth Curry ($4.0M), Markief Morris ($2.0M)
The Dallas Mavericks are in close contention for a top spot in the Western Conference this season. To compete against the league’s elite teams, prioritizing a trade for a star player at the deadline is imperative. As such, the Mavericks have identified several players as potential trade candidates.
Tim Hardaway Jr. is enjoying one of his best seasons in a Dallas uniform, averaging 17.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. As a key contributor to the team, his stellar individual performance might entice other contenders to acquire him in exchange for an outgoing star, with additional assets as needed to facilitate the move.
Richaun Holmes is averaging just 10.8 MPG due to the impressive play of rookie Dereck Lively. With a salary of 12 million, Holmes could serve as an ideal salary filler in a Mavericks move for an All-Star addition.
Maxi Kleber, a significant rotational piece for the Mavs, may see his departure in the event of a trade for another star. With his high salary and minimal production in an injury-ridden campaign, he could fit seamlessly into a trade for a high-caliber player before the deadline.
Seth Curry returned to Dallas after a successful stint a few seasons ago, but his individual performance has not met expectations. Averaging 4.7 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 0.8 assists, Dallas could leverage his 41.6% three-point shooting to send him to another franchise in a trade.
Markieff Morris has seen limited participation in the Mavericks’ rotation this season. With a 2 million salary and averages of 3.1 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.8 assists, Morris is a viable option to be included in a trade for salary-matching purposes.
Realistic Targets
– Mikal Bridges ($21.7M), Kyle Kuzma ($25.5M), Lauri Markkanen ($17.2M), Pascal Siakam ($37.8M), OG Anunoby ($18.6M)
As the trade deadline looms, the Mavericks have their eyes a plan on potential upgrades, and one player catching their attention is Mikal Bridges of the Brooklyn Nets. Bridges has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging an impressive 21.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Known for his defensive prowess and sharpshooting from beyond the arc, Bridges could provide the Mavericks with a much-needed boost on both ends of the floor.
Potential Trade Package for Mikal Bridges: Tim Hardaway Jr., Josh Green, 2027 First-Round Pick
Kyle Kuzma of the Washington Wizards emerges as another intriguing target for the Mavericks. Kuzma’s scoring versatility has been on full display, boasting averages of 22.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. His ability to score from various positions on the floor and contribute in rebounding and playmaking makes Kuzma a potential game-changer for Dallas.
Potential Trade Package for Kyle Kuzma: Tim Hardaway Jr., Josh Green, 2027 First-Round Pick
In the mountainous terrain of Utah, Lauri Markkanen has been making waves with the Jazz, putting up impressive numbers of 24.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Markkanen’s proficiency as a stretch four could inject a new dynamic into the Mavericks’ offense, providing a reliable scoring threat and addressing the team’s need for floor spacing.
Potential Trade Package for Lauri Markkanen: Tim Hardaway Jr., Olivier-Maxence Prosper, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round (Swap Pick)
Venturing north of the border, Pascal Siakam of the Toronto Raptors emerges as a tantalizing option for the Mavericks. Siakam’s well-rounded game is evident in his averages of 21.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists. Adept at playing both ends of the floor, Siakam’s athleticism and defensive prowess could significantly bolster Dallas’ frontcourt.
Potential Trade Package for Pascal Siakam: Tim Hardaway Jr., Richaun Holmes, Josh Green, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, 2027 First-Round Pick
Lastly, another Raptors standout, OG Anunoby, presents a unique opportunity for the Mavericks to shore up their defensive presence on the wing. Anunoby’s stat line of 15.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists highlights his ability to contribute offensively while being a defensive stalwart, providing Dallas with a valuable two-way player.
Potential Trade Package for OG Anunoby: Tim Hardaway Jr., Olivier Maxence-Prosper, 2025 Second-Round Pick, 2028 Second-Round Pick
Untouchable Players
– Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving
As the Mavericks navigate the trade landscape, certain players stand as untouchable, key pillars essential to the team’s success. At the forefront is Luka Doncic, a bonafide superstar and a leading candidate for the MVP award this season. Doncic’s extraordinary numbers of 33.7 points, 9.2 assists, and 8.4 rebounds per game underscore his unparalleled impact on the court. His scoring prowess, playmaking wizardry, and rebounding tenacity make him the cornerstone of the Mavericks’ franchise, and parting with him is simply unthinkable as the team charts its course toward championship contention.
Joining Doncic in the untouchable realm is Kyrie Irving, whose contributions to the Mavericks have been nothing short of exceptional. With averages of 23.0 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, Irving brings a dynamic scoring ability and veteran leadership to the team. His playoff experience and clutch performances make him an invaluable asset, and the Mavericks view him as an integral piece in their pursuit of a deep postseason run. Irving’s unique skill set and ability to elevate his game in critical moments solidify his status as an untouchable player, ensuring continuity and stability in the Mavericks’ backcourt.
