6 Early Dallas Mavericks predictions for the 2023 trade deadline

The Dallas Mavericks are off to a solid 10-6 start, and fans are excited about the potential of this squad.

Although Dallas' defense has struggled, Dallas' offense has been on fire (for the most part).

Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are firing on all cylinders, and Tim Hardaway Jr. is making his case to be in the Sixth Man of the Year conversation.

6 Early Dallas Mavericks predictions for the 2023 trade deadline

Other than Dallas' star duo and Hardaway Jr., other players are starting to settle in as well. Dereck Lively II has been a phenomenal starting center, and Derrick Jones Jr. has been a great fit in the Mavericks' starting lineup.

There is plenty to be excited about if you're a Mavericks fan, but there's a chance that this team could look different once the trade deadline rolls around.

Dallas is known for always looking to improve at the trade deadline, and they have made two massive moves over the last two years, as they traded Kristaps Porzingis in 2022 and traded for Irving in 2023.

Here are six early predictions for the Mavs for the trade deadline.

6. Maxi Kleber will be traded

After having a poor start to the season and battling injuries, Dallas could look to move Maxi Kleber at the trade deadline.

Kleber is in year one of his three-year, $33 million contract extension, and if he doesn't improve once he returns from his toe injury, Dallas could look to send him elsewhere.

In five games played this season, Kleber is averaging 3.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 0.2 blocks per game. Kleber has been bad on both ends of the floor, and he isn't producing as much as they need him to.

During Dallas' playoff run in 2022, Kleber was one of the x factors for the Mavs. His ability to protect the rim, play solid defense when needed on the perimeter, and stretch the floor were crucial. He looked like someone who would be in Dallas' core for years to come, but a torn hamstring and dislocated toe later, it seems that Kleber may never return to his peak form.

Kleber could still fully recover and return to being a great piece off the bench, but it may be best if Dallas moves him while they can.