Why Dallas Mavericks must avoid Trae Young trade at all costs

Luka Doncic and Trae Young on Dallas Mavericks means both would have to sacrifice

Doncic and Young faced similar scrutiny coming into this season. Both were known for their outlandish usage and their penchant for dominating the ball. They were two of the top three players in time of possession for three straight years, but Young had Dejounte Murray join his squad and the Mavs traded for Kyrie Irving in February. Could two of the most ball-dominant players adjust?

The results were mixed. Luka and Kyrie just did not have enough time on the court together to make a definitive statement. Young’s time of possession dropped to fourth as former Maverick Jalen Brunson took his place in the top three. Young and Doncic struggled to move off the ball and find ways to create open looks without having it. It is something each man will look to improve this offseason.

Now imagine them playing together. It would certainly just be the two taking turns early on, and that would take away from what makes Young great. He is a wizard with the ball in his hands, but Dallas does not want to limit Luka Magic. Unless one or both embraced playing more off the ball, this partnership could quickly get messy.

Ultimately, the Dallas Mavericks must avoid Trae Young for one simple reason.