With the NBA trade deadline less than a month away, rumors are rampant in the basketball community. One team that has been assessing potential moves is the Dallas Mavericks. Since closely missing out on the play-in spot last season, the Mavericks have made impressive strides to address the chemistry issues within the roster. However, one major issue that still remains glaringly evident is its defense.

Given their limited future draft assets, the most enticing offer they could present is either their 2026 or 2027 first-round pick or Toronto’s 2025 second-rounder—not the most favorable starting point. To secure a valuable addition, they might need to consider parting ways with a significant asset, possibly someone like Tim Hardaway Jr., according to Mark Deeks from HoopsHype.

As per the report, his 2024/25 salary of $16,193,183 is the basis behind this. A part of the reason why trading Tim Hardaway Jr. has been so difficult is because of his substantial 4-year, $75,000,000 contract. However, his hot shooting and scoring prowess as of late might now help to justify the $34 million that he’s slated to earn in the next two years.

With injuries to Maxi Kleber and Dwight Powell, the Mavs could use some help in the frontcourt. Even with the arrivals of Lively, Williams, and Jones, the Mavericks are 20th in defensive rating (116.5) and 26th in defensive rebounds (31.6). Considering that they have been linked to Dorian Finney-Smith, Isaiah Stewart, Pascal Siakam, and Jerami Grant in the past, it is clear that they are looking to upgrade in the power forward position.

The 6’5″ guard has been a key contributor off the bench and has even emerged as a hot favorite (+155) to win the Sixth Man of the Year honors. While Dallas might miss his shooting, it could be a worthwhile sacrifice if it contributes to shoring up their struggling defense. But who could they bring in as a replacement?

The Mavericks: Who are they interested in?

According to Stefan Bondy of the ‘New York Post’, the Mavs have expressed interest in New York Knicks’ guard Quentin Grimes. If they were to trade for Grimes, they would be able to address the lack of size within the team. His 6-foot-8 wingspan would further prove advantageous for disrupting passing lanes. Additionally, being a defensive-minded shooting guard, he possesses the capability to excel in both long-range shooting and attacking the rim, as the situation demands.

Read More: NBA Trade Rumors: 3 Power Forwards Targeted by Mavericks to Fulfill the Missing Piece for 2nd NBA Championship

The team has also been on the lookout for a potential reunion with Dorian Finney-Smith to bolster their perimeter defense. In the current season, Finney-Smith has been posting solid averages of 9.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. Impressively, he’s shooting a career-high 40.1 percent from beyond the arc in just under 29 minutes per game. As one of the better 3-and-D players, the eight-year veteran would be a steal for any team.

They have also been linked to the Golden State Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins. This deal would be a no-brainer if it weren’t for his massive four-year, $109 million extension or his dip in performance this season.

Who do you think the Mavs should rope in before the Feb. 8 deadline? Let us know in the comments!

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