Grade the Trade: How could the Dallas Mavericks pull off a deal for D’Angelo Russell?

Building a D’Angelo Russell trade for the Dallas Mavericks

Creating a trade is not cut and dry here because of Russell’s salary. The Mavs would have to get creative to make something work, but that is why general manager Nico Harrison has stacked up several mid-tiers salaries in recent years. Here is a hypothetical trade that would work for both sides.

Dallas Mavericks receive: D'Angelo Russell and Naz Reid

Minnesota Timberwolves acquire: Tim Hardaway Jr., Josh Green, JaVale McGee, 2027 1st round pick, 2025 2nd round pick

Would Minnesota be willing to take on the contracts of Tim Hardaway Jr. and JaVale McGee? They are stuck over the salary cap with Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert locked in as their core for the foreseeable future. Having cost-controlled assets can be an advantage in that situation.

Josh Green helps boost the Timberwolves' defense and gives them a young wing to develop. Tim Hardaway Jr. gives them a floor spacing boost and an outside shooting threat. JaVale McGee could take over as the backup center as Naz Reid heads to Dallas in this trade. Minnesota also nets two draft picks for two expiring contracts in the deal.

This trade only makes sense for the Mavs if they plan on re-signing Russell and/or Naz Reid. Both are talented players, but is the duo enough to push the Dallas Mavericks into title contention? Why would Dallas make this trade?