**Grade the Trade: Mavs Acquire Third Star in Blockbuster Deal with Blazers**
The NBA trade season has begun with the first trade of the offseason between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Chicago Bulls. In this deal, the Bulls acquired Josh Giddey, while the Thunder picked up Alex Caruso. Despite missing the chance to add Caruso, the Dallas Mavericks are still hopeful for roster improvements.
The Mavericks have been in several rumors recently, including interest in drafting Bronny James. As the draft approaches, the Mavs will either use their No. 58 overall pick or trade it, both scenarios offering potential improvements. They have also shown interest in Tobias Harris, and ongoing trade rumors surrounding Tim Hardaway Jr. add to the anticipation.
In a proposed blockbuster trade with the Portland Trail Blazers, the Mavericks could secure their third star to play alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, significantly enhancing their roster.
Proposed Trade Details
In this mock trade, the Mavericks would send Tim Hardaway Jr., Maxi Kleber, Josh Green, and two second-round picks to the Blazers in exchange for Jerami Grant and Matisse Thybulle. This deal would address Dallas’ need for a third scorer and improve their shooting and scoring depth.
Benefits for the Mavericks
Dallas would gain Jerami Grant, a versatile forward who averaged 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while shooting 40.2% from three-point range last season. Grant would be a significant addition as a third scorer alongside Doncic and Irving. The Mavs would also acquire Matisse Thybulle, known for his elite defensive skills, enhancing their defensive lineup.
Benefits for the Blazers
The Blazers, on the other hand, would offload Grant’s hefty contract and receive three valuable rotation players and additional draft capital. Josh Green, at 23, has significant potential as a shooter and defender, offering a high upside for Portland. Tim Hardaway Jr., on an expiring contract, and Maxi Kleber, a versatile defender and shooter, would provide veteran presence and depth.
Trade Grades
**Portland Trail Blazers: B**
– Gain two rotation players (Green and Kleber) and Hardaway Jr.’s expiring contract.
– Acquire two second-round picks, though no first-round picks, which might be a sticking point.
**Dallas Mavericks: B-**
– Land a third scorer in Grant and a defensive asset in Thybulle.
– Lose valuable role players Green and Kleber, potentially affecting team depth.
– Grant’s success has been on losing teams, raising concerns about potential regression.
Potential Lineups
**Mavericks’ Potential Starting Lineup:** Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Jerami Grant, P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford
**Blazers’ Potential Starting Lineup:** Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, Jabari Walker, Deandre Ayton
Conclusion
This trade offers both teams a chance to address key roster needs. While the Mavericks gain a much-needed third star and defensive depth, the Blazers acquire young talent and draft capital for future building. However, the success of this trade will depend on how well Grant integrates into a winning team environment and the development of the players Portland receives.
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