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Although Luka Doncic has accomplished a lot in his first seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, he still has not checked off a playoff series win on his career checklist. This is no fault to the Mavs' wunderkind, as he has shined during his two postseason experiences, both of which came against the LA Clippers.
As Doncic embarks on another playoff quest, it's clear that Dallas needs some roster upgrades. At 32-23, they are the fifth seed in the Western Conference. Their defense has been extraordinary while their offense has been mostly bad, as they rank 19th in offensive rating. The script has completely flipped going from Rick Carlisle as head coach to Jason Kidd even though Dallas has basically the exact same team. Ahead of the trade deadline, they need to make some moves.
Although rival teams will likely inquire about Jalen Brunson — as the New York Knicks already have — it would not be wise for the Mavs to trade him unless they net a star-level player in return. He is playing the best basketball of his career and is one of the team's key contributors.
Dallas has a high need for Brunson due to his scoring and playmaking. They're running the risk of losing him this offseason, though, as he is an unrestricted free agent. The best course of action is to keep him and offer any other asset. Still, he shouldn't be untouchable.
Especially with Tim Hardaway Jr.'s left foot fracture, Dallas needs offensive firepower. There should be a lot of options for them to acquire it ahead of the trade deadline.
Mavs trades to make ahead of NBA trade deadline
The Detroit Pistons will be fielding several calls about Grant. The Mavs should be one of those inquiring teams, as Grant can provide some much-needed scoring alongside Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. The 27-year-old forward is averaging 19.1 points and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 40.4 percent from the field this season. His shooting and defense would make him a solid fit at either forward spot in the lineup.
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Dallas could offer a package that starts with Josh Green, Maxi Kleber and Boban Marjanovic. From there, the Mavs would have to offer the Pistons draft capital. If Detroit is fond of Brunson, the Mavs could include him in the deal. Grant's abilities, especially with Doncic helping him, could make him a stronger offensive weapon than Brunson.
What makes a trade for Grant somewhat tricky is that he is someone who Dallas would have to go all-in for but whose contract expires after next season. Losing him for nothing would be a huge blow. However, the Mavs need to be okay with that happening in order to improve the team around Doncic. Keeping Grant long-term alongside Doncic and Porzingis would make for a very strong trio that can grow together.,
Although Gordon doesn't have the buzz around him that Grant does, he may also be tough to land. The Houston Rockets reportedly won't part with him easily. If that changes, the Mavs should pounce.
Gordon is averaging 14.2 points while shooting 42.7 percent from beyond the arc. His shooting abilities would pair magnificently with Doncic. He could be a starter, even when Hardaway returns, or could be a strong option as a sixth man.
One notable downside to trading for Gordon is that he is 33 years old. He wouldn't serve as a long-term option, which is why the Mavs shouldn't deal Bruson for him. Dallas adding him as a key player for the next few seasons is a worthwhile swing. They could use the same package of players that they would use for Grant but would likely end up surrendering less draft capital.
