Dallas Mavericks: 5 things they can learn from Kristaps Porzingis trade

Thing Dallas Mavericks can learn from Kristaps Porzingis trade: 1. Injury history matters

The Mavs should have learned this lesson before trading for Kristaps Porzingis. They signed Wesley Matthews fresh off Achilles surgery in 2015, and he never recreated his Portland numbers. Dallas has one of the best medical and performance evaluation staffs in the league, but some players just cannot stay healthy.

Kristaps Porzingis played 72 games during his rookie season. He suited up for 66 in year two. In the last four seasons, KP has topped 50 games one time. This is the first year the Unicorn ended the season healthy, but knee injuries limited him to 50 of the Mavericks’ 79 games, including the postseason. After six years in the NBA, it is a safe bet to assume Porzingis is going to miss significant time every season.

The Dallas Mavericks must buy lower or avoid trading for players with lengthy injury histories going forward. Luka Doncic’s prime years are too valuable to waste. Having a second star or key role player missing time in the playoffs could be the thing that holds the Mavs back. Injuries happen, but Dallas must do their best to avoid them. That includes not acquiring talent that has racked up several in recent years.

The Dallas Mavericks can learn a lot from the Kristaps Porzingis trade. How will they use the lessons this offseason? Stay tuned to find out.