Grade the Trade idea: Mavericks land new starting center in James Harden blockbuster

NBA trade season is officially here and there could me multiple superstars moving around the league.

We've already seen Jordan Poole, Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, Marcus Smart, and Kristaps Porzingis all switch teams within the last few weeks, and more trades could be coming soon.

Some of the most recent superstar trade rumors include the Philadelphia 76ers' star guard James Harden.

Grade the Trade idea: Mavericks land new starting center in James Harden blockbuster

Harden was traded to the Sixers in the middle of the 2021-22 season and has been there ever since. He averaged 21 points, 6.4 rebounds, 10.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in 79 games played for Philadelphia. Harden has been a big part of what the Sixers do, but the superstar could be looking to play elsewhere next season.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, "James Harden is opting into his $35.6 million deal for next season – in order for the 10-time All-Star and the 76ers to work together on a trade out of Philadelphia." The Sixers have also reportedly already started talking to teams regarding potential trades for Harden, and according to Sam Amick (subscription required), his preferred destination is the Los Angeles Clippers.

This is the third time that Harden has requested a trade, and both of the previous times he landed at his preferred destination (Nets and 76ers). Superstars are holding more and more leverage on where they land in trades, as it seems they often get their way when specifying where they want to be traded.

Here we discuss a deal that lands Harden in Los Angeles, and the Dallas Mavericks get involved by filling their gaping hole at starting center.