Dallas Mavericks: 5 Kristaps Porzingis trades to consider this offseason

Kristaps Porzingis trade the Dallas Mavericks could pull off: 3. Get a first-round pick

This would be a trade that sets up another deal for the Mavericks. Yes, trading Porzingis for Al Horford is a significant downgrade, but Dallas could acquire some picks in the swap. The Thunder would get some immediate help for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and their young roster while sacrificing two picks.

The Thunder hold 17 first-round picks from now through the 2026 NBA Draft. There is no way they can make all of those selections. Oklahoma City controls the draft for the next five years, but they will have to make trades at some point. Would they be willing to give up a first-round pick to acquire Kristaps Porzingis?

Horford is owed $53.5 million over the next two seasons. Dallas would be getting off their commitment one year sooner and would have an additional first-round pick to deal. The Mavericks want a second star, so grabbing another draft choice gives them three tradeable first-rounders if they can remove the protections from the 2023 pick owed the Knicks. It may not be enough to acquire a star, but it gets them closer.

There is almost no way the Dallas Mavericks make this move this offseason, but it is their chance to acquire a first-round draft pick.

Next: No. 2