If we were to grade the Dallas Mavericks' first half of the 2020-21 NBA Season, it would probably be a solid C-. Though they've managed to skim the surface of the West's playoff picture, we all know how competitive the West is, and with teams like the Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, and the New Orleans Pelicans all hungry as hell, no record is safe.
That being said, Mark Cuban and the rest of the Mavs front office know that a few moves before the trade deadline expires should help them go over the hump and maybe climb a few spots to secure another trip to the playoffs this season.
Now, who should the Mavs set their eyes on?
1. Aaron Gordon
It has been said over and over again that Luka Doncic needs another star. Doncic has enjoyed the services of the returning Kristaps Porzingis, but their European tandem has yet to really flourish–with the Mavs even reportedly checking the temperature on the possible trade value of KP.
Maybe a third star to complete a Texas Triumvirate would not only keep Porzingis in Dallas but also ultimately help Luka Magic thrive and hopefully take these young Mavs to the next level? Why not grab a guy like Aaron Gordon from the Orlando Magic?
The Mavs have expressed their interest in acquiring the young, athletic forward. Though it might be hard for the Magic to simply move on from a pivotal guy in their roster for the past seven seasons, lack of success might force their hand in going into a deal with Gordon on the table. Even if the Mavs might need to part ways with key members like Dwight Powell or even a youngster like Josh Green, the pros will definitely outweigh the cons of putting a guy like Gordon alongside Doncic and Prozingis.
Gordon, who naturally plays at the three spot, can easily start at the four with Porzingis starting at the center spot if Rick Carlisle wants to play small. If they want to go big, Gordon can slide down to the SF spot with Porzingis and Maxi Kleber in the frountcourt. This gives Dallas a ton of speed and versatility on both offense and defense. He's also just 25 years of age, which says that there's still a ton of potential that's yet to be unlocked.
2. JJ Redick
Aside from adding young talent, the Dallas front office can also tap into some league vets who are shopping themselves around. One of those tested veterans that could perfectly fit in the Mavs' current roster is a guy like JJ Redick.
After parting ways with Seth Curry in the offseason, the Mavs have clearly missed some shot-making ability. Plugging in one of the best spot-up shooters in the New Orleans Pelicans vet will definitely help Dallas fill in that void. The 36-year-old has been one of the better floor-spacers in the league, and his impact in the locker room will be crucial in developing Dallas' young roster.
Redick is on his final year of his contract in NOLA, which could make him an ideal target for Dallas even if they have to give up a few future picks.
The Duke legend is a low-maintenance guy that can easily come off the bench for Carlisle. Having a professional like Redick would also help the Mavs, especially come playoff time and the team needs a crucial bucket down the stretch. With Redick and Tim Hardaway, Jr., Dallas will have two elite shooters in their line-up that would only benefit Doncic's game and ultimately trickle down to the team's overall success.
Should the Mavericks pull the trigger before the deadline expires?
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