The Dallas Mavericks will be aggressive on the trade market as they look to upgrade their roster around Luka Doncic. Rumors suggest they are interested in another ball handler, and a center upgrade. Dallas attempted to upgrade at the five this offseason, but the signing of JaVale McGee has not worked out, and Christian Wood has played his best next to another big man.
Dec. 15 will be a key day for the trade market. Players that signed contracts in the offseason become eligible to be traded on that date, which opens up a bunch of new scenarios for teams. With the G League showcase coming up, teams will be meeting in person and there will be plenty of trade chatter.
Ahead of that, Shams Charania dropped his latest rumors (subscription required) where he mentioned the Mavericks as one of four interested parties on a John Collins trade with the Hawks. Get the latest here.
Rumors: Dallas Mavericks interested in John Collins trade
It feels like Collins has been named in rumors every year, and Dallas has been interested since at least the 2021 trade deadline. The 6’9 forward is currently sidelined by an ankle injury and he is having his worst season since his rookie year.
In Dallas, Collins would be asked to take more shots, be a key rebounder, and offers them a versatile big man that can both space the floor and be a pick-and-roll partner for Luka Doncic. Christian Wood has played well with the Mavericks, and Collins has a similar skill set with added defensively ability. The 25-year-old could explode in Dallas playing next to number 77.
The Jazz, Wizards, and Nets were also mentioned as interested in John Collins. Will the Mavs be the team that trades for him? The Hawks appear motivated to make moves as they are facing some internal drama (subscription required). Do not be surprised to see Collins dealt, but where remains the question?
The Dallas Mavericks will canvas the market, but can they find a trade that suits them? Stay tuned to find out.