Dallas Mavericks rumors: Larry Nance Jr. drawing interest from Mavs

The Dallas Mavericks are expected to be active and aggressive before the March 25 trade deadline. They have won nine of their last 11 games to climb to eighth in the Western Conference but will be searching for upgrades to continue their ascension.

Their aggressiveness has activated the rumor mill. The most surprising is Dallas not labeling Kristaps Porzingis as “untouchable”. KP rumors have flying around, but do not expect him to be traded. The Mavs could make a few moves before the deadline, though.

Dallas is one of six teams showing interest in Cleveland Cavaliers big man Larry Nance Jr., according to Chris Fedor of the Cleveland Plain Dealer (subscription required). Nance Jr. has not played since Jan. 31 because of a finger injury, but he is a productive and unique big man. Let us take a look at how he would fit with the Mavs.

Dallas Mavericks rumored to have interest in Larry Nance: How would he fit?

Nance Jr. is a versatile big man that can play the four and the five. He has connected on 36.0 percent of his last 222 3-point attempts. Nance Jr. is a strong rebounder, defender, and playmaker for a big man. The 28-year-old is also under contract until 2023 and makes just over $20 million in the next two seasons combined.

Nance Jr. would be the perfect big man for the Dallas Mavericks. He could play next to Kristaps Porzingis and help space the floor when the Unicorn needs a rest. The 6’7 forward is not a rim protector but can hold his own on the perimeter. Pairing Kleber with Nance Jr. could give the Mavs some impressive versatility and shot-making in the frontcourt.

Fedor notes in his article that the Cavaliers are unlikely to trade Larry Nance Jr. away, but that won’t stop the Mavericks from trying. Expect Dallas to be aggressive in searching for ways to improve their roster. Stay tuned for all the latest.