Dallas Mavericks: Pass or pursue on 4 proposed Kristaps Porzingis trades

Pass or purse on Kristaps Porzingis trade for Dallas Mavericks: 3. Kemba to Dallas

My colleague, Mark Nilon, at Hardwood Houdini proposed this deal. Josh Richardson would have to opt-in on the final year of his contract to make this trade possible. It would hurt the Mavericks losing Jalen Brunson, but they get some draft capital that would help them make additional moves.

Dallas is trying to build a title contender around Luka Doncic in 2022 and beyond. Making this deal would give them three tradeable first-round picks if they can remove the protections on the first-rounder they owe the Knicks in 2023. That gets them into star acquiring territory. The Celtics are selecting 16th in this draft. The Mavs would need a second deal lined up to make this swap worth it.

Dallas Mavericks should pursue a trade with the Celtics but pass on this deal.

The Mavericks should be looking to acquire Marcus Smart from Boston. They need an elite perimeter defender to pair with Luka Doncic in the backcourt. The Texas native has made the All-Defensive first-team twice and would immediately help Dallas jump up the standings. The Mavs should pass on Kemba and picks to try to acquire Smart from the Boston Celtics.

Next: No. 2