5 Bold predictions for the Dallas Mavericks’ offseason

2. Mavericks acquire Deandre Ayton in desperation trade

The Mavs offseason begins to fall apart ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft, so the franchise is forced to take a swing on Deandre Ayton. The former number-one overall pick is immensely talented, but he has struggled to put it all together. Fans are clamoring for better defense, improving his jumper, and being more consistent.

Ayton averaged 18.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in 30.4 minutes per game last season in Phoenix. The 24-year-old had five 30-point games and scored in single-digits ten times. Ayton became the team’s third scoring option after the Suns acquired Kevin Durant.

The Mavericks made a desperation trade for Kyrie Irving in February, and they pull off a similar move here. Luka Doncic and Deandre Ayton share an agent, and the duo knows each other well. Ayton has plenty of untapped potential, and he wants a change of scenery.

He has the size and athletic ability to be a dominant rim protector that averages 20 points and ten boards per game, but can the Mavs unlock it? Suns fans often get frustrated with Ayton’s effort and lackluster play. Without improvement, Dallas will have overpaid for the 6’11 big man.

The Dallas Mavericks acquire the former number one overall pick after they realize Kyrie Irving will not be back next season.