Mavericks: Mark Cuban gives firm stance on Kristaps Porzingis rumors

The Dallas Mavericks have won 11 of their last 15 games as they have made a significant run up the standings. Luka Doncic is working his way back into the MVP race. Kristaps Porzingis has returned to his All-Star form as the Mavs look to be a force in the playoff race.

Their slow start has them sitting eighth in the Western Conference. They would be in the play-in tournament if the season ended today. Dallas is two games back of sixth and 4.5 out of grabbing homecourt in a first-round playoff series. The trade deadline takes place on March 25 and is presenting some difficult decisions for the Mavericks.

The surprising rumor of the season has been Porzingis being shopped. Owner Mark Cuban and head coach Rick Carlisle denied it, but there have been three reports to the contrary. Cuban did his best to put an end to the rumor on Tuesday morning.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban shuts down Kristaps Porzingis rumors

Cuban was on Live with Kelly and Ryan on March 16 where he discussed a host of topics. Host Ryan Seacrest asked the Mavericks owner about the KP rumors. See his response below courtesy of ESPN.

Fans have seen Cuban deny the rumors on multiple occasions. It should come as no surprise. Now is not the time to trade Porzingis. The Mavericks had the LA Clippers on the ropes with KP in the lineup, and Dallas is an elite team when healthy. They have to give it one more shot to see what Luka and the Unicorn can accomplish in the postseason.

The Mavs would have to take a step back to trade Porzingis. They are not going to move him for another superstar. Dallas has designs of making the playoffs and going on a run. They need all the talent they can get to accomplish those goals. Expect Kristaps Porzingis to be a Maverick after the March 25 deadline.

There will be plenty of Dallas Mavericks rumors before the trade deadline. Keep it locked to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest, plus analysis that cannot be found anywhere else. Do not miss it.