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Dallas Mavericks: Trade for Robert Covington Needs Full-Court Press

By Reid Hanson

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 30: Robert Covington #33 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on October 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 30: Robert Covington #33 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on October 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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With the trade deadline fast approaching, it’s time for the Dallas Mavericks to go all-in on a trade that would bring 3-and-D wing Robert Covington to Dallas

The push is on. With the loss last night the Dallas Mavericks fall to sixth in the loaded Western Conference standings. From here on out every win and every loss seems to matter more as teams jockey for final playoff position.

After a long multi-year hiatus, the Dallas Mavericks don’t just hope to be postseason competitors, but rather true title contenders. To do that they’re going to need another significant piece to bolster their starting lineup.

Robert Covington is a player who’s been on their radar for quite some time. Sure, the 29-year-old 3-and-D wing is the kind of player who fits virtually any team’s lineup. But on a team like the Dallas Mavericks, his fit is exceptional.

Dallas’ offense lives and dies in the hands of star second-year player, Luka Doncic. Acquiring a player who doesn’t demand the ball in his hands is paramount in keeping the offensive rhythm that already ranks tops in the NBA.

Covington is a lock-down defender and a catch-and-shoot sharpshooter. He will benefit from the Mavs spacing and complement the already potent offense. Defensively he’d upgrade the Mavs flexibility to match-up with the NBA’s top-scorers.

It should be no wonder the Mavs have been rumored to be already making offers to snag Covington. Yes, plural. As The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor reported a few days ago, the T-wolves have declined offers from the Mavs thus far.

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Dallas, hesitant to part with their young core, have likely kept Jalen Brunson out of any discussions. The young PG is a considered a key part of their rebuild and while he’s never expected to be a starter, he’s a top reserve who’s viewed as budding young star.

Even if Brunson doesn’t develop into a star, he should be able to become a game-changer in the mold of the J.J. Barea. The desire to keep him is understandable, but if his exclusion is what’s holding this up, the Mavs need to re-assess their goals.

Covington would fit like a dream on both ends of the court. He would set this franchise up for a run into the playoffs and for a long push in postseason play as rotations tighten. He’s a clear upgrade to Dorian Finney-Smith and be the 3rd star on a team that needs a reliable 3rd star.

Virtually every team in the NBA could use Covington on their roster so offers are expected to improve as we move closer to the deadline. It’s time for the Dallas to give their best offer.

Next. Is there a depth issue that needs addressing on the Mavs?. dark

Robert Covington is arguably the best possible (realistic) piece the Dallas Mavericks can add at the deadline. He’s a clear upgrade defensively and his offensive boost doesn’t upset the balance on offense.

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