The Dallas Mavericks have continued to find ways to win despite their plethora of injury concerns during the 2023-24 season. Luka Doncic recently returned from injury and joined Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II in the starting rotation once again. However, Dallas could still benefit from making a move or two ahead of the NBA trade deadline.
Dallas is sitting in the seventh spot in the Western Conference standings as of this writing. They are just a few games back of the No. 4 spot, however. In all reality, the current roster has what it takes to reach the NBA playoffs.
But making a deep postseason run is another conversation. The Denver Nuggets feature a balanced roster and they are looking to defend their NBA championship. And Denver isn't even leading the West as of this story's writing. Instead, the Minnesota Timberwolves are in first place in the conference.
Other teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers have also emerged as serious contenders. In order to compete with these teams, the Mavericks may want to consider addressing one major need via trade.
What is the Mavericks' biggest need?
Everyone wants to talk about a third star. Ever since LeBron James joined Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh with the Miami Heat, building a big three has been a topic of discussion.
Lively's emergence this season has helped to build a big three of sorts for Dallas. Lively is a young rookie, however, so many people around the NBA world still think that Dallas should add another star.
Of course, the Mavs were linked to a potential Pascal Siakam trade before he was dealt to the Indiana Pacers. The Mavericks don't necessarily need another star, though.
Dallas' biggest need comes down to one word: Size.
Dereck Lively II is the tallest player on the Mavericks, standing at 7'1. They only have four other players who are 6'8 or taller, with those players including Dwight Powell (6'10), Maxi Kleber (6'10), Markieff Morris (6'9), and Richaun Holmes (6'9).
Meanwhile, the Nuggets, who won the NBA Finals a season ago, feature nine players who are 6'8 or taller. They also have three players who are 6'11 or taller.
So why is size such a big deal?
When Lively hasn't played this season due to injuries, the rebounding department has been a major issue for Dallas. Even when Lively is on the floor, the Mavs still aren't a great rebounding team. Luka Doncic, who is 6'7, actually leads Dallas in rebounds per game with 8.3 per contest, while Lively is averaging 7.8 rebounds per outing.
Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving, who is just 6'2, is third with 5.0 rebounds per game. Dallas needs more rebounding production from other players without question.
According to NBA.com, the Mavericks are averaging 41.6 rebounds per game. That is tied for the sixth lowest mark in the league.
It gets even worse with contested rebounds. Dallas' contested rebounds per game average of 11.6 is only better than the Washington Wizards.
Adding size is of the utmost importance. Trading for another center would be smart, but improving the depth at the forward positions would not hurt either.
Who should the Mavs trade for?
With Siakam headed to Indiana, players such as Andrew Wiggins, PJ Washington, and Dorian Finney-Smith have been mentioned as trade candidates for Dallas.
Wiggins, Washington, and Finney-Smith would give Dallas depth at the forward positions. Each player is capable on offense with Wiggins offering the most upside. All three players are also 6'7, and are averaging at least four rebounds per game.
Adding more all-around size would help Dallas. Still, acquiring another big man should be a priority, so why not trade for a center who is known for his work on the glass?
Andre Drummond is 6'11 and is one of the better rebounders in the NBA. He's led the league in rebounds per game four times in his career. Despite playing just 16 minutes per contest in 2023-24, Drummond is still recording 8.5 boards per outing.
As aforementioned, the injury bug has unfortunately played a major role for Dallas. Drummond, however, leads the NBA in games played as of this story's writing. In a lot of ways, Drummond projects to be the perfect fit for the Mavericks.
There are other centers available who the Mavericks may consider. But Drummond makes a lot of sense for Dallas.
Looking ahead
Are the Mavs doomed if they don't make a trade?
No. Dallas has displayed the ability to play a competitive brand of basketball with the current roster. When fully healthy, this is a team capable of competing in the Western Conference.
With that being said, adding another forward and center would only enhance Dallas' depth while addressing a major need.
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