Mavericks dodged a bullet by not pursuing rumored trade target

The Dallas Mavericks' offseason has gone swimmingly well, as they were able to acquire key roster pieces, including Klay Thompson, Naji Marshall, and Quentin Grimes, without giving up a first-round pick.

They brought in Thompson in a sign-and-trade involving six teams for the first time in the history of the NBA. Fortunately, the Mavs only had to give up one second-round selection to complete the transaction. But in an interesting turn of events, the organization netted a second-round pick to make up for the one it sent out.

Meanwhile, Dallas signed Marshall to a three-year deal without all the complications of a multi-team trade and obtained Grimes from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Tim Hardaway Jr. and three second-rounders.

Mavericks dodged a bullet by not pursuing trade for Jerami Grant

With almost no cap space and feasible trade assets remaining, the Mavs are unlikely to go after a big fish in the remainder of the offseason. That means not pursuing Portland Trail Blazers star Jerami Grant, although that option was probably thrown out the window after the Los Angeles Lakers hired JJ Redick as head coach.

Recent reports about Grant have shown that Dallas is likely better off not chasing after the veteran forward because the Blazers have apparently made it hard for the Lakers to land the coveted trade target. According to Sean Highkin of The Rose Garden Report (subscription required), Portland is trying to collect two first-round picks from Los Angeles in exchange for the former second-round draftee.

Is Grant worth that much? The jury's out on that question.

It's interesting to note, though, that he has averaged 20.8 points per game in the past four seasons, has developed into a legitimate threat from beyond the arc, and possesses the athleticism and length that make him a solid defender.

The asking price for Grant may prove to be justifiable, but the Mavs are still better off forgoing their reported interest in him.

In addition to having a nearly empty cupboard of draft assets, Dallas would have also had to deal with the former Team USA member's rich contract and injury history. He is entering the second season of a five-year, $160 million extension, which has a $36.4 million player option for the 2027-28 campaign. And while his production on the court is nothing to scoff at, he has actually had trouble staying on the floor, never having made more than 63 appearances in a season the past four years.

The Mavs faithful should be thankful the franchise didn't have to give up a lot to bring in another star and complementary players.

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