Mavericks trade for Rudy Gobert in hypothetical deal: Should they do it?

Should the Dallas Mavericks make the trade for Rudy Gobert?

Yes, acquiring a third star likely pushes Dallas into title contention immediately. Gobert improves their defense while giving them an elite rebounder, rim protector, and roll man. No team would look forward to facing the Mavs.

Losing three role players would hurt, though. Hardaway Jr. has been outstanding this season. Gobert could replace his scoring but does not give the Mavericks the same floor spacing. Maxi Kleber is an underrated do it all big man. Dallas would miss his defense and ability to knock down threes. Losing Brunson also hurts. The Mavs would be in the market for a replacement backup point guard.

Making this deal also empties the organization’s cupboard. They would not be able to trade a first round draft pick until 2027 after making this move. Gobert becomes a free agent in 2021 too. That means the Mavericks are going to have to hand him over $100 million to keep him. Dallas will have a tight cap sheet after the trade.

Is it worth it to go all-in and trade for Rudy Gobert? Yes. The Mavericks have to be worried they could lose him in free agency next summer, but it gives them three stars. Dallas instantly makes that leap. They still have plenty of key role players around their stars too.

Next: Will they make the trade?