Grade the Trade: Mavericks land Grant Williams in three-team trade

The Mavs get their defensive wing, Spurs add a veteran

The Mavs have added their preferred free-agent wing defender Grant Williams. With the addition of Williams, Dallas sent out forward Reggie Bullock to San Antonio.

Going into the offseason, General Manager Nico Harrison made it clear that the Mavs would prioritize adding defensive-minded players. This trade accomplishes part of Harrison's goal, as Williams is a stout defender.

Although Bullock himself is labeled as a "3-and-D" wing, Williams is eight years younger than Bullock and can do something on the defensive end that Bullock cannot - guard bigger power forwards and centers.

Furthermore, Williams is nearly as accurate of a three-point marksman as Bullock. Williams is a career 37.9% three-point shooter, while Bullock sits at 38.4% for his career. Although Bullock attempts more threes per game, Williams' percentage should remain relatively similar upon increased volume playing next to All-Stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

Sure, Williams has played with stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, but he's never played with a player who has Doncic's passing acumen. Williams actually shot better on wide-open threes (no defender within 6+ feet) than Bullock last season. Williams shot 41.2%, while Bullock shot 37.6%.

The Williams for Bullock swap is by no means a downgrade in shooting for the Mavericks. However, Williams' shooting isn't the most important aspect of his play. His defensive versatility is.

The Celtics, at risk of losing Williams for nothing, made a play by shipping off Williams and receiving a few second-rounders as compensation. After the trade, the Celtics have managed to stay below the Second Apron of $182 million, as their current cap figure is about $177 million.

Next, we'll look at each team's grade in the three-team deal.