Should Dallas Mavericks pass or pursue early season B/R hypothetical trades

The Dallas Mavericks dropped their season-opener to the Suns in disappointing fashion. They had a 22-point lead in the third quarter, but Phoenix stormed back to win and get a small bit of revenge after being knocked out of the playoffs by Luka Doncic and company last season.

One game is too early to panic. The Mavs play their home opener on Saturday night, but fans should still not worry, even if Dallas slips to 0-2. They start the season with four difficult games, and the team is still trying to integrate Christian Wood and JaVale McGee. Give it time.

Bleacher Report put together a massive trade article featuring one deal for all 30 teams, and the Mavs appeared twice. Should Dallas pass or pursue those trades?

Pass or Pursue Bleacher Report hypothetical Dallas Mavericks trade dealing Reggie Bullock

For the Cavaliers, they had Cleveland acquiring Reggie Bullock from Dallas. Yes, the Cavs need a 3-and-D wing, but this trade made little sense for the Mavericks. See the hypothetical deal below.

Mavericks receive: Cedi Osman, Raul Neto, and 2023 second-round pick

Cavaliers get: Reggie Bullock

First, Dallas would have to cut Facundo Campazzo, who they just signed to make this trade. Bleacher Report notes that Neto is unable to be traded until Dec. 15, so there would be a bit of time to wait here too. Also, Bullock was a starter and key piece of the team’s run to the conference finals last season. Why would the Mavericks, who have Luka Doncic, downgrade on the wing to pick up one second-round pick?

Sure, Raul Neto gives them another playmaker, but he has struggled mightily in the playoffs in his career, including his assists virtually disappearing.

Verdict: Pass

This trade is a hard pass because the Dallas Mavericks want to contend for a championship this season. The race is wide open, so downgrading on the wing does not make sense, especially when they are just picking up a third-string point guard and a meaningless second-round draft choice.