4 Dallas Mavericks who improved their trade value in 2023

The Dallas Mavericks shockingly missed the playoffs after an epic late-season collapse that saw them win just seven of the final 25 games. They sunk from fourth to 11th in the Western Conference over the final two months. Luka Doncic put up MVP-caliber numbers, but the team’s defense, rebounding, rim protection, and late-game woes caught up to them.

Dallas was just too small and did not have enough defense after trading for Kyrie Irving. The 31-year-old superstar played well, but the roster around him needed improvements. Irving is an unrestricted free agent this summer, and he may have already played his last game in Dallas. If Kyrie is back, the Mavs must improve the roster around their two stars if they plan on making a run in 2024.

Dallas awaits the lottery to see if they can keep their top ten draft pick, but even that won’t be enough. The Mavericks need to upgrade in multiple areas, and they must trade for some of the pieces. Dallas has limited assets, but these four players improved their stock, despite the team’s down year.

Dallas Mavericks who improved their trade value in 2023

4. Tim Hardaway Jr.

THJ missed the Mavs run to the conference finals after breaking his foot in January 2022. The 31-year-old had to prove that he was healthy and could return to his previous level after the injury and surgery.

He was a bit rusty earlier on, but Hardaway Jr. was outstanding from Dec. 1 to end of the regular season as the 6’5 wing averaged 15.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 32.6 minutes per game while making 41.0 percent of his 3-point attempts. Hardaway Jr. has transformed into an elite catch-and-shoot option and a key piece of the Mavs offense.

When he scored 18-plus, Dallas was 16-9 on the season. In each of those contests, THJ hit at least three 3-pointers. The Mavericks needed his scoring and shot-making, and other teams do too.

Tim Hardaway Jr. has two years at $34.1 million left on his contract, and any team that needs a shooting boost should consider him. The Dallas Mavericks shopped him at the trade deadline, and they could do it again this offseason.