Mavericks Veteran on Chopping Block Next After Luka Doncic Trade

The Dallas Mavericks pulled off perhaps the most shocking trade in NBA history, sending perennial All-Pro and beloved superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in a package centered around Anthony Davis.

It's as unexpected as it is bizarre, and Dallas' front office is understandably facing major questions from fans who can't make sense of the decision. President of basketball operations, Nico Harrison, justified the trade by arguing that defense wins championships. However, he conveniently ignored that Doncic helped carry the Mavericks to the NBA Finals just last year.

For better or worse, this is the team Dallas has now. That said, more moves could be on the horizon and one veteran Maverick could be on the chopping block next.

Davis will presumably play his preferred power forward position, throwing a wrench into the big man rotation. That said, fair criticism will be levied at Harrison's feet, but his choice has larger implications on the roster.

Mavericks Big Man Dwight Powell on Chopping Block After Luka Doncic Trade

Powell is in his 11th year with the organization. He's far and away the longest-tenured Maverick but is seemingly approaching the end of his career. After missing the last eight games with injury, Powell is averaging just 7.3 minutes per game, and now there's a logjam in the frontcourt that'll make it difficult to get on the court.

Davis, Dereck Lively II, P.J. Washington, and Daniel Gafford are firmly ahead of Powell. While Davis has a lengthy injury history in his own right, it's hard to imagine a path to playing time for Powell that doesn't involve some catastrophe ahead of him.

He has a player option in 2026. Given the likely limited market for his services around the league, it'd make a lot of sense from Powell's perspective to pick up that option.

However, Dallas' front office could choose to trade Powell before that. He could be a cut candidate, especially if the Mavericks are willing to eat the $4 million salary. Either way, acquiring Davis pushes Powell further down the depth chart. At 33 years old, the former Stanford star's days in the NBA could be nearing an end.

He's still a valued locker room presence and can be a positive influence on a roster. In fairness, he's also the only player around who has been in Dallas long enough to fully embrace the organization's philosophy.

However, Harrison proved that the Mavericks are loyal to no one, and Powell could be the next player to be shown the door.

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