Mavericks could have golden opportunity to trade for Finals point guard

The Dallas Mavericks already have one of the deepest backcourts in the league, but a great opportunity might lead them to add even more talent. If the Indiana Pacers make veteran point guard T.J. McConnell available, Dallas should seriously consider making a move.

McConnell played a key role in the Pacers’ 2024–25 NBA Finals run. He averaged 9.5 points, 5.2 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. He energized the second unit with his defense and playmaking, earning a reputation as one of the NBA’s best backup point guards. For Dallas, his steady presence would fill a critical gap while Kyrie Irving is out.

The Mavericks have already brought in D’Angelo Russell this offseason, raising questions about backcourt balance. Russell adds scoring and 3-point shooting, but he plays best with the ball in his hands. He struggles on defense, and fitting him next to combo guards like Jaden Hardy or Brandon Williams could be a challenge for head coach Jason Kidd.

T.J. McConnell would be a dream fit in Dallas

Even with Russell on the team, McConnell adds a layer Dallas needs. He doesn’t prioritize his own scoring; instead, he runs the offense, sets the pace, and helps teammates. Pairing Russell with McConnell could work well in lineups without Irving, providing a blend of scoring and playmaking. Russell can roam and find shots while McConnell manages the setup on offense.

Defensively, McConnell covers for Russell’s shortcomings. He’s a fierce on-ball defender who pressures opposing guards and disrupts their flow. This allows Kidd to mix and match backcourt pairings based on the matchup. That flexibility would be crucial in the playoffs, where defensive weaknesses can be exploited quickly.

The Mavericks don’t yet know how long Irving will be out, but his injury history means they need to prepare for stretches without him. For now, Russell will take on much of the responsibility, with Williams, Dante Exum, and Hardy stepping up. That’s a risky strategy for a team aiming for a deep playoff run.

McConnell would help lessen that burden. He can manage bench-heavy units when Russell rests or play alongside him for balance. Dallas would always have a true floor general, which has been a problem in previous seasons when Irving was unavailable.

The Pacers have a reason to consider trading McConnell since Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard are firmly in place. Dallas could offer a future second-round pick or a back-end contract to start negotiations. His $8.7 million salary is manageable, and the Mavericks wouldn’t need to give up core players to acquire him.

For Dallas, this would be a low-cost move with the potential for a significant impact in the playoffs. Veteran stability at point guard can swing a playoff series, and McConnell has already shown his worth on that stage.

The Mavericks may look guard-heavy on paper, but depth matters only if it's dependable. Russell provides offensive firepower, while McConnell ensures structure and defensive intensity. In a season where every small advantage could decide who navigates the tough Western Conference, Dallas should act quickly if the chance to land McConnell arises.