5 Biggest needs for the Dallas Mavericks ahead of the trade deadline

2. A new starting power forward

As mentioned in the previous slide, the Dallas Mavericks have holes at both the starting power forward and small forward spots. They don't necessarily need to make a move for both positions, but their priority at the trade deadline since the start has seemed to be upgrading at the power forward spot.

This has easily been the weakest point on the Mavs' roster, as the only true power forwards on the roster are Grant Williams, Maxi Kleber, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper. Williams has significantly underperformed since his hot shooting streak from the beginning of the season ended, Kleber has been a major disappointment, and Prosper has been bouncing back and forth to the G League.

They have no reliability at this position, and the trade market is the best way to address this.

Dallas' most likely targets at the power forward position seem like Kyle Kuzma and P.J. Washington, and either player would help the Mavs and their need for more size. If the Mavs want another go-to scorer, they can consider a move for Kuzma. If they want a defensive-minded four who can play some small-ball five, they should trade for Washington.

Either player would be great fits, and only time will tell if Dallas will make a move for one of them. Kuzma's asking price could also be going down, and the Mavs are a team that could chase him while including their 2027 first-round pick.