Dallas Mavericks: 5 pivotal changes that could still happen this offseason

Dallas Mavericks pivotal change that could still happen: 2. KP trade

Kristaps Porzingis struggled this season. His regular-season averages were strong, but KP struggled to protect the rim. He never quite regained his athleticism and lateral quickness following offseason meniscus surgery. Things went from bad to worse in the playoffs after the Mavericks drew one of the worst matchups in the league for the Unicorn.

Porzingis was a decoy in the playoffs. He pulled Kawhi Leonard off Luka Doncic but would go multiple possessions without touching the ball. KP averaged 13.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 0.7 blocks over the seven games. That is not enough production from a max contract player.

Owner Mark Cuban said the Mavericks need to acquire a second star this offseason. That tells fans all they need to know about how management is viewing KP moving forward. Will Porzingis be okay with slipping to the number three option? Is the relationship with Luka workable?

The Dallas Mavericks owe Kristaps Porzingis $101 million over the next three seasons. Trading him will not be easy, but doing so would be a pivotal change for the organization. Getting his contract off the Mavs books would give the front office flexibility to improve the roster. Dallas must wait for the right offer, though.

Next: No. 1