Mavericks' inevitable summer trade decision keeps getting tougher by the day

The Dallas Mavericks continue to show poise and perseverance, as the team finds different ways to win games. The team defeated the Orlando Magic 101-92 on Thursday to capture their second win this week. Dallas is 3-1 in their last four games, and remains half a game behind the Sacramento Kings for the 9th-place spot in the Play-In Tournament.

One big part of their success has been the return of Anthony Davis. Davis made his long-awaited return on Monday against the Brooklyn Nets. Dallas beat Brooklyn 120-101, as Davis scored 12 points and had six rebounds in 27 minutes. His presence alone helped space the floor for Dallas and open up the offense. Coach Jason Kidd's approach to preserving Davis and not overworking him is a strategy the Mavs must continue if they hope to have him fully healthy next season.

It was clear the Mavs needed Davis to return this season. The team is 3-0 whenever he plays. Both of Dallas' wins this week came at the hands of Davis. His ability to return early speaks volumes to the type of competitor he is. Davis is a true warrior, unafraid of any challenge. This might be key to winning Mavs fans over, as his return will be key to Dallas making a deep playoff run.

Jaden Hardy's progression is forcing the Mavs into a tough choice

Jason Hardy is another player who will be key in helping Dallas make a playoff run. His production and availability will be critical during the team's final eight games. The team is currently without players Kyrie Irving and Dante Exum for the season, and Hardy's presence will be important. Hardy could become an important asset, depending on what happens with Brandon Williams.

Hardy has done a great job taking advantage of his opportunities. He had a breakout game on Thursday, helping defeat the Magic. Hardy was the team's leading scorer, as he scored 22 points and had three rebounds. He also set a career high with five 3-pointers in the first half. Hardy finished the game shooting 83.3 percent from the 3-point line.

This marked the second game in a row in which Hardy scored above 15 points. He scored 15 points and shot 77.8 percent against the New York Knicks earlier this week. Hardy was the team's third-leading scorer and has proven to be a valuable asset. Currently, he is averaging 11.2 points per game and shooting 52 percent overall in March.

His recent offensive production is nothing new. Back in January, Hardy had a surge of games where he scored 15 or more points during a five-game stretch. He had his best game on January 9 when he scored 25 points and shot 55.6 percent from behind the 3-point line. His past surge had Mavs fans questioning his trade speculation, as he was playing a valuable role.

Hardy's most recent performances have fans once again questioning his future status. There were some fans in October who believed his inconsistency was a reason to trade him. However, this time, his recent high level of production could be another motive for Dallas to pull the trigger.

Next year, Hardy will be in the first year of his three-year $18 million contract extension he signed back in October. This means he is getting roughly $6 million per season. This is actually the perfect amount for Dallas, as the team is not stuck in a massive contract. It gives the Mavs more options if they were to trade him.

His level of production would be the main reason teams might want to trade him. Hardy is a savvy guard who isn't afraid to shoot the ball and can score from different angles of the court. He has shown that he can take over games and loves being a valuable option. Hardy's high level of production, though, could also be a reason the Mavs might hold onto him.

As mentioned, the Mavs will go into next season without Irving and possibly Exum, depending on whether they re-sign him or not. So, it's possible the team could opt to keep him, as they will need all the help they can get. His recent production could also be a reason to keep him on the roster. Hardy would be with the team for reassurance, as he has shown he is someone they can count on.

The next eight games will be critical for Hardy, as he continues to make a case for the team to keep him on the roster. If Hardy can change Mavs fans' minds, then it's possible he could be a Maverick long term. The Mavericks will have a tough decision to make this offseason. Nico Harrison, don't mess this one up.