Dallas Mavericks rumors: Interest in signing Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

The Dallas Mavericks are rumored to be interested in signing Michael Kidd-Gilchrist after he finalizes his buyout with the Hornets. Get the latest here.

The Dallas Mavericks were quiet at the trade deadline. They acquired Willie Cauley-Stein to fill in after Dwight Powell suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. That was the only trade for the Mavs this season.

They still want to improve their roster. The Mavericks are going to qualify for the playoffs. The goal now becomes advancing past the first round. They are going to need some better health. Luka Doncic, Kristaps Porzingis, Seth Curry, and Tim Hardaway Jr. have all missed time in the last two months. Add in Powell, and it has been a rough go for the Mavs.

The easiest way to improve a playoff roster at this point is through the buyout market. Rebuilding teams are letting veterans go and sign with contenders. The Mavericks are rumored to be interested in a recent buyout.

More. How the trade deadline impacted the Mavs

Mavs want MKG

Adrian Wojnarowski broke the news of the Charlotte Hornets buying out Michael Kidd-Gilchrist on Feb. 8. See his tweet below.

Reporting with @espn_macmahon: Charlotte is finalizing a contract buyout with F Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. Dallas has emerged as a possible destination once MKG clears waivers.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2020

The Mavericks’ interest should come as no surprise. Brad Townsend reported Dallas gave him a look before the trade deadline.

Kidd-Gilchrist is a defensive-minded wing. The Mavs could use a boost in that area. They resorted to starting Courtney Lee against the Wizards because they needed someone to matchup on Bradley Beal. MKG would fit that bill nicely.

Will Dallas sign him?

The buyout market usually favors teams at the top of the standings and the massive markets. Dallas does not have either, but they appear to be the favorites here. Brad Townsend tweeted this on Saturday afternoon.

We (@rick_bonnell and I) have written of Mavs/Michael Kidd-Gilchrist interest since before trade deadline. Appears to be coming to fruition now that MKG reportedly working out a buyout. Waiver period is the next step.
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) February 8, 2020

It is a smart move with little risk for the Dallas Mavericks. Kidd-Gilchrist is 26 and can fill a role for the team. The Mavs will help him maximize his talents. Stay tuned to see if they finalize the signing in the coming days.

Next. 4 Mavs who need to improve down the stretch

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