Mavericks must trade Jaden Hardy now to unlock perfect final roster move

The Dallas Mavericks might be just one roster change away from completing their 2025–26 team. However, they may need to part with one of their young guards to do it. Jaden Hardy has shown moments of scoring talent, but with a $6 million salary and the team’s depth at guard, he stands out as the likely candidate to be traded. Moving Hardy could create a roster spot for Dennis Smith Jr. and provide Dallas with the final piece they need, as the Mavs just signed Smith Jr. to an Exhibit 9 contract yesterday.

Hardy came into the NBA with high expectations as a strong scorer. He has had moments in Dallas where he seemed like a future Sixth Man of the Year candidate. However, his consistency has been a significant issue. With the Mavericks already deep in the backcourt, his opportunity for substantial playing time seems limited. Dallas must balance Hardy’s potential against the team’s current needs.

The challenge has been finding a trade for him. Hardy’s $6 million salary makes it tough to find teams interested in acquiring him. Dallas has explored trade options without success. Earlier this offseason, the team waived Olivier-Maxence Prosper instead of Hardy to make room for Dante Exum. This decision highlights the difficulty of moving the young guard. The Mavericks did not want to lose Prosper, a promising defensive wing, but they struggled to offload Hardy's contract, leaving them with few choices.

Dennis Smith Jr.'s fit makes so much sense in place of Jaden Hardy

In this context, trading Hardy isn’t about giving up on him; it’s about maximizing the Mavericks’ opportunity. Getting rid of his $6 million salary would give the Mavericks more financial and roster flexibility if they can get someone to take it on without having to give up draft capital. This flexibility is crucial for a team trying to balance veteran star power with young players like Cooper Flagg and Dereck Lively II.

Smith Jr. has completely changed his game since his first time with the Mavericks. He’s no longer just an athletic scorer; he has become one of the NBA’s toughest on-ball defenders and a reliable backup playmaker. The Mavericks need his defensive skills in the backcourt, especially since Kyrie Irving is likely to miss some games. Smith’s ability to guard multiple positions while running the offense in short stretches would provide Jason Kidd with a dependable option when the stars are on the bench.

What’s great about this move is that it wouldn’t cost the Mavericks any draft picks. If they can find a team willing to take on Hardy without requiring additional second-round picks, it would be a perfect scenario. Hardy would get a chance to develop in a new setting, Dallas would create a roster spot, and Smith Jr. would fill a clear need.

There’s also an emotional aspect to consider. Smith Jr. is a fan favorite who didn’t get a chance to thrive during his first stint with the Mavericks. Bringing him back now, as a veteran aware of his role, would be a feel-good story that also makes sense for the team.

The Mavericks have an opportunity to make one more strategic move before the season starts. Trading Hardy for salary relief and keeping Dennis Smith Jr. could be the ideal finishing touch for a team aiming for a championship. Sometimes the easiest solution really is the best one.