Dallas Mavericks: 5 trade targets that could push them into title contention

3. Gordon Hayward, Boston Celtics

If the Dallas Mavericks decide that Porzingis’ best role is at the five, what they need is a forward that defends well on the perimeter and can be their third scorer. Gordon Hayward could be the perfect fit.

Fans may remember him giving the Mavs fits during his All-Star year in Utah or the horrific leg injury he suffered in his first game with the Celtics. What flew under the radar was his performance in Boston this season. Hayward averaged 17.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 33.4 minutes per game. He shot 50.2 percent from the field and 39.2 percent on his 3-pointers.

Hayward just turned 30 in March and has proved he is healthy. There may still be room for improvement too. He was at best the fourth option on the Celtics this season. They had Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown emerging plus All-Star Kemba Walker playing the point. Hayward has averaged over 19 points and five assists per game in separate seasons while playing for the Jazz.

He can play both forward spots and holds his own on the defensive end of the floor. Hayward would instantly improve the Mavericks. My colleague, Andrew Hughes, can give fans a Celtics perspective on Hayward being a key piece in Dallas. Find that article here.

He has a player option for the 2020-2021 season as well. It is for more than $34 million, so expect him to opt-in. That leaves Dallas the flexibility to chase free agents in 2021 or sign back Hayward if all goes well.

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