6 Early Dallas Mavericks predictions for the 2023 trade deadline

5. Tim Hardaway Jr. will not be moved

After being in trade rumors all summer long, Tim Hardaway Jr. has proved that Dallas shouldn't trade him.

Hardaway Jr. is averaging 17.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game while shooting 39.6 percent from downtown. His improved efficiency has been crucial, and he continues to maintain a high 3-point percentage despite shooting extremely difficult shots.

Keeping Hardaway Jr. is likely best for Dallas, as he has been great off the bench and provides a spark that Dallas needs. Hardaway Jr. has also shown an ability to score some off the dribble and looks good in transition.

Along with Hardaway Jr.'s improved offense, he has also shown an improvement on the defensive end of the floor. Although he still makes an occasional mistake off the ball, Hardaway Jr. isn't as much of a liability as he has been in the past. He has also been one of the best charge-takers in the NBA and has accepted his sixth man role.

Hardaway Jr. and the Mavs were in a bit of an awkward position heading into the season, as he didn't seem to be on the same page as head coach Jason Kidd regarding his role, but that notion has been silenced now.

With his importance to the offense, Dallas should keep Hardaway Jr. unless they get an offer they can't deny.