Grade the Trade: Mavs land James Harden in mock 4-team Damian Lillard megadeal

Grade the trade for the Dallas Mavericks

Trading for James Harden would be a risk for the Dallas Mavericks, but it would certainly improve the ceiling of their roster, especially at this price tag.

Incoming: James Harden

Outgoing: Jaden Hardy, Tim Hardaway Jr., Maxi Kleber, 2027 1st-Round Pick

The trio of Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Luka Doncic is a bit clunky, as all three are guards who aren’t particularly great on the defensive end, but the offensive upside would be incredible.

Plus, the Mavericks wouldn’t be giving up too much in this trade. Jaden Hardy is a young player with potential, but Tim Hardaway Jr. and Maxi Kleber are tradable. The biggest risk in terms of assets would be losing their last tradable first.

However, the major issue with this trade for the Mavericks is the fact that Harden is entering the final year of his contract. He would be able to up and leave next summer if he wants.

Plus, while Irving defended him on Twitter, some rumblings coming out of the Brooklyn Nets camp hinted that Harden was sick of Irving’s antics when he requested out.

If he and Irving aren’t on good terms, then the Mavericks would have no reason to even consider this trade, as it would backfire in their face.

However, if the two stars can work it out, Dallas would create an elite offensive engine and improve their title hopes next season. Is the long-term risk worth it? 

Grade: C+