Mavericks 'Checked in' on Potential Trade for Veteran Wing Upgrade

The Dallas Mavericks are expected to be active this offseason after coming up short in the NBA Finals to the Boston Celtics.

The Mavericks want to re-sign veteran forward Derrick Jones Jr., who is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. However, Dallas also will look to move on Tim Hardaway Jr., who fell out of the rotation this season and was a non-factor in the playoffs.

The Mavericks have already been connected to veteran forward Tobias Harris, so it’s clear that general manager Nico Harrison has his eyes on making an addition to the forward position. 

If the Mavericks don’t address the forward spot early in free agency, they could explore the trade market. Dallas has Hardaway’s contract as a potential trade chip that they can use to acquire a quality caliber player.

Mavericks Rumors: Dallas Checked in on Blazers Forward Jerami Grant

Ian Begley of SNY.tv reported Sunday that the Mavericks are among several teams that have “checked in” on Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant’s situation. The 30-year-old Grant is entering the second year of a five-year, $160 million contract he signed with the Blazers last year.

Grant would be an instant offensive upgrade over Jones Jr. and he would allow P.J. Washington to move to the small forward spot. The 30-year-old Grant averaged 21 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 33.9 minutes per game this season in Portland.

The veteran forward also shot 45.1 percent from the field and 40.2 percent from beyond the arc (5.1 attempts per game). Grant is scheduled to make $29.7 million next season. The Mavericks could hypothetically use Hardaway’s contract and throw a young player (Jaden Hardy or Josh Green) in a deal for Grant.

That said, the Mavs could opt against trading for Grant and role with the duo of  Daniel Gafford and Washington, who were great additions at the trade deadline this season. Nonetheless, it will be fun to see what the Mavs’ front office can do to build upon their run to the NBA Finals.

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