Mavericks' underrated silver lining from Anthony Davis trade is already paying off

The Dallas Mavericks' Anthony Davis trade has definitely gotten some flak over the last few days, but one of the most underrated silver linings from the entire deal is already beginning to show itself. Marvin Bagley III has the potential to be a long-term piece in Dallas, and his first game as a Maverick proved just that and more.

Trading Davis was all about creating future cap flexibility and acquiring draft assets for Dallas, but it could turn into much more if Bagley III pans out over the final 30 games of the year. His money is going to come off the Mavericks' books regardless after this season, and Dallas being able to have a little less than half of a season to test him out is one of the best parts about the Davis trade.

Bagley III is just 26 years old, and he would fit into their timeline beautifully as they look to build a contender around Cooper Flagg.

Marvin Bagley III is filling a major Mavericks need

In his first game as a Maverick against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night, Bagley III finished with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks, and the Mavericks should definitely explore keeping him as a backup big man for next season and beyond. He was finishing strong around the bucket, crashing the offensive glass, and protecting the rim well, and he's exactly what Dallas needs as they enter this new era.

The future of the Mavericks' frontcourt is already looking strong, as they have Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford under contract, but they need a reliable third option. Both Lively II and Gafford have struggled with injuries during their time in Dallas, and Bagley III would give them great insurance at that spot.

He could start when needed or come off the bench, and the Dwight Powell role seems like it's his for the taking if the Mavericks don't re-sign him. Powell has become a fan favorite in Dallas over the last 11 years due to his hustle, heart, leadership, and reliability, but his time with the Mavericks could be coming to an end soon.

He is on an expiring contract, and his role has shrunk considerably over the last three seasons. Powell is no longer the type of guy that Jason Kidd should feel comfortable playing heavy minutes if they're trying to contend for a title as soon as next season, and Bagley III would be an easy replacement.

His athleticism and ability to finish above the rim would match that of Powell when he was in his heyday, and he likely wouldn't cost much either. Bagley III is entering unrestricted free agency this summer, and Dallas could prioritize bringing him back if the rest of the season goes well.

His playstyle would complement Gafford and Lively II's game well, as he can set solid screens, pass out of the short roll, and catch lobs, and he could emerge as one of the positives of this deal. Acquiring Bagley III is the type of low-risk, high-reward type of move that the Mavericks needed when moving off Davis, and fans should be excited about his potential moving forward.