Grade the Trade: Mavericks land elite center and shooter in mock blockbuster deal

Jan 29, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Buddy Hield (24) and Indiana Pacers
Jan 29, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Buddy Hield (24) and Indiana Pacers | Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
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Grading the trade for the Dallas Mavericks

For the Dallas Mavericks, this trade is an easy decision to make. You essentially replace Tim Hardaway Jr.'s. shooting with Buddy Hield's 42.5 percent clip from behind the arc. Pair that with the addition of Dallas native Myles Turner, and you have your formula for the next championship.

The Mavericks lose the one valuable trade asset they still have left, but to acquire a legit bonified third star alongside Doncic and Irving could become a three-headed monster we have never seen in Dallas before.

Turner's ability to space the floor while also being a pick-and-roll threat would be deadly for any opposing defense. On the other side of the floor, Turner has churned out multiple seasons in a row where he has compiled multiple blocks per game. This could be exactly what Dallas is missing for a championship.

The case for Hield would be simple as well. His ability to be an elite shooter would be instantly felt alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. He and Seeth Curry would be two of the best shooters from behind the arc in the league and being on the same team would only bolster this offense more.

The league would be put on notice if this trade ever went through, and Dallas would become instant title contenders. This deal ultimately falls on the Pacers if they are willing to trade Turner. Turner's addition in a deal like this would be unlikely, but Indiana could be fed up with Turner's lack of availability.

Buddy Hield and Myles Turner would instantly be vaulted into the starting rotation alongside the addition of Grant Williams. Pair them with one of the most star-studded backcourts in the league with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and you have your championship core right there.

Potential starting lineup: Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Buddy Hield, Grant Williams, Myles Turner

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