5 Trade deadline moves that would boost Mavericks, 5 they must avoid

9. Avoid: Trading Dereck Lively II

The Dallas Mavericks have reportedly denied all trade offers for Dereck Lively II so far this season, and teams have been calling about him, but they must continue to keep this mindset with Lively II.

Lively II has been vital for Dallas' success all season long, and without him, this team may have been a bottom-five team in the Western Conference.

This season, Lively II is averaging 8.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. He has been the true rim protector that the Mavs have needed for years, and it looks as if he will be anchoring Dallas' defense for years to come.

Dallas must avoid trading Lively II because he has already turned into one of the best assets that they have. Other than Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Lively II may have the most trade value on this team. The Mavs must use him as a building block for the future, as he and Doncic have outstanding chemistry.

As Lively II continues to develop and play more with Doncic and Irving, his play will rise even more. Dallas is clearly better when he is on the floor, and trading him could throw things all out of whack.

Trading Lively II would be a massive mistake, as he has all-star potential, but it looks like the Mavs wouldn't even think about moving him.