Former NBA exec says the quiet part out loud about trade to save Mavericks' season

The Dallas Mavericks finalized their roster this past week, as the team signed Moussa Cisse to a two-way contract. The move closed out Dallas' final two-way spot and further added to the motion that the team is focused on size and defense. The Mavs were bound to add another center to their roster, as Cisse joins Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, Anthony Davis, and Dwight Powell in the frontcourt.

The move now signifies the team is focused on Nico Harrison's defensive vision. If you remember, one of the reasons Harrison traded Luka Doncic was because he believed in the old school philosophy that defense wins championships. It seems Dallas is following his dream by adding an abundance of bigs.

Seems like a great idea, right? Well, one former NBA Vice President of Basketball Operations believes this is something the Mavs should proceed with caution. The former NBA executive thinks that with Kyrie Irving out, Dallas could lack the backcourt depth to succeed.

A trade may be the only way to help balance the Mavericks

Two weeks ago, Zach Lowe hosted John Hollinger on his weekly podcast to discuss the outlook of teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks. When it came to Dallas, Hollinger explained that the confusion of Anthony Davis playing the four or five and Irving's status still has him questioning their outlook.

Basically, with so much confusion in the air, Hollinger suggested a solution that might break fans' hearts.

"The thing that would make me more optimistic about Dallas is an in-season trade. They have (Daniel) Gafford on a pretty good deal. If they moved him, moved (P.J.) Washington and got some guards or wings, like true wings," Hollinger said.

He goes on to explain that the Mavs' roster is "so top-heavy" and with Irving out, Dallas could lack the offensive qualities Irving possessed.

Right now, there is no timetable as to when Irving will return. In the summer, Irving refused to answer as to when he would be back on the court, including the playoffs. This is something that scares fans for a couple of reasons.

For starters, the Mavs will need Irving's replacement, D'Angelo Russell, to play to his full potential. Last season, Russell had a down year. He averaged a career low 12.6 points per game, splitting time between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets. He also shot a poor 39 percent from the floor and struggled to replicate his past success. Plus, his defense is sometimes a liability.

Assuming Russell fails to improve, then Dallas will be forced to rely on Dante Exum and Brandon Williams. This is a gamble itself. Exum is an improved defender from Russell, but struggles to stay on the court. His past history of injuries proves he is someone the Mavs can't trust.

Williams, on the other hand, proved he can compete at the next level. He had a breakout year last season and was an exciting player to watch. The issue would be his ability to play at a consistent level and be an everyday guard.

Now, Dallas does have Jaden Hardy and Ryan Nembhard, but they need to improve on the defensive side of the ball.

So, maybe Hollinger is right. With injuries and inexperience being a factor, Dallas might need another backcourt player to help relieve the pressure of Irving's absence. Not to mention, the Mavs do have the assets to bring a guard or wing. Until then, Mavs' fans will have to ride out the season and hope the team's defensive mentality works in their favor.