Grade the trade: Mavericks land massive center upgrade in 3-team proposal

Would the Dallas Mavericks accept this trade?

This is exactly what the Mavs are hoping for before the trade deadline. They must wait until Jones’ trade restriction is lifted in mid-January. Dallas can survive the early season with their current group, but adding some rebounding and a big man in the middle is key before the deadline.

Jonas Valanciunas is not the perfect fit. The Mavericks would love to add a stout rim protector that can block shots and makes opposing players think twice about attacking the paint. Valanciunas is a skilled offensive big man that can space the floor, but his rim protection is lacking.

Still, JV is a massive upgrade over Dwight Powell, Richaun Holmes, and rookie Dereck Lively II at the five. He gives Dallas more offensive firepower and an elite rebounder to end possessions. The Mavs would be all over this trade, especially at just the cost of Tim Hardaway Jr.

Grade: A

Swapping THJ for an above-average starting center is a massive win for the Dallas Mavericks. They have depth after adding Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and Olivier Maxence-Prosper this offseason. Dallas is searching for exactly a trade like this, and the only thing that keeps it from being an A-plus is Jonas Valanciunas’ lack of rim protection.

Will the Dallas Mavericks pull off a trade for a starting center? Who can they land? Stay tuned to find out.