3 Dallas Mavericks players listed as 'top NBA trade candidates'

2. Tim Hardaway Jr.

Tim Hardaway Jr. has seemingly been in trade rumors for the entire time he has been with the Dallas Mavericks, and this summer was no different.

Hardaway Jr. was "expected" to be traded at one point in the offseason, and he didn't even know if he would be back. Although Dallas tried to move him all summer, they may be glad they hung on to him.

Hardaway Jr. has been one of the best bench scorers in the NBA, as he is averaging 16.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 3.3 3-pointers made per game. He has been excellent for Dallas, and this high level of play could be elevating his trade stock.

HoopsHype listed him as a top trade candidate because of "his production as one of the top bench scorers this season and tradeable salary ($17.9 million)." Dallas could look to move Hardaway Jr. and make an upgrade, but that could end up being a bad idea in the end.

Hardaway Jr. plays great next to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and his role off the bench is perfect for him. It fits his play style much better and he provides a much-needed spark that only he can bring.

Dallas should move him if it means they land a third piece to add to their core, but they are likely much more hesitant to move him than they were during the summer.