Dallas Mavericks: Pass or pursue on 5 recent hypothetical trades

Should Dallas Mavericks pass or pursue on hypothetical trade?: 2. Trading for Kemba

In Favale’s piece, he detailed how the Mavs could acquire Kemba Walker from the Thunder.

The draft pick is top-six protected and hinges on the Mavericks’ previous obligations to the New York Knicks. Dallas could be trading their two least desirable contracts in this move for a four-time All-Star.

Walker was traded from Boston to Oklahoma City this offseason. He has struggled with injuries in recent years, and his knees are a question mark. Can the Mavericks count on Kemba to be healthy and productive in the playoffs?

Dallas had interest in the 31-year-old point guard when he was a free agent in 2019. Kemba chose the Celtics over Dallas. Would they try to acquire him again this summer?

Verdict: Dallas Mavericks should pass on this Kemba Walker deal

The Mavs are giving up a valuable pick swap and arguably the best player right now. KP is also five-plus years younger than Walker. Yes, Dallas gains some financial flexibility by making the move, but how healthy is Kemba? Should the Mavericks gamble on another injured star? That did not work as planned with KP. Grabbing a 31-year-old point guard with a history of knee injuries is too scary. The Dallas Mavericks should pass on this trade and look for upgrades elsewhere.

Next: No. 1