Dallas Mavericks acquire Moses Brown in Josh Richardson trade

The Dallas Mavericks traded Josh Richardson to the Boston Celtics. The move was announced on Friday evening, and it appeared the Mavericks would only be receiving a trade exception in the swap. Richardson was exercising his player option and finding a new home in Boston. It allowed the Mavs to clear cap space in their pursuit of free agents.

The deal was officially announced on July 31 with Moses Brown heading to Dallas in the swap. It came as a surprise as Brown is under contract for three more years at under $2 million per season. He showed flashes last season for the Thunder and has plenty of potential.

Here is a closer look at what Moses Brown brings to Dallas and how his addition impacts the deal for the Mavericks.

Dallas Mavericks acquire Moses Brown in Josh Richardson deal with Celtics

Brown is a 7’2 big man with a 7’3 wingspan. The 21-year-old averaged 8.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 21.4 minutes per game last season playing for the Thunder. He gives Dallas a young developmental center that can make an impact on both ends of the floor. He is a standout rebounder that can protect and finish around the rim.

Brown is a fantastic value. ESPN’s Bobby Marks breaks it down below.

The 7’2 big man’s $1.7 million salary will eat into the Mavericks cap space slightly. They may need to trade him away in a separate deal to clear some room, but other teams will be interested in the talented 21-year-old big man.

The Dallas Mavericks are far from done making moves. They want to add a marquee free agent this offseason. Kyle Lowry appears to be at the top of their list, but he will be heavily pursued. The Mavs got off Josh Richardson’s contract and acquired a talented young big man in the process. Consider it a smart first move by new general manager and president of basketball operations Nico Harrison.