6 Dallas Mavericks who are expendable, and 6 they can't afford to trade

The Dallas Mavericks are sitting at 12-8 and fourth place in the Western Conference after Wednesday night's victory over the Utah Jazz. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are clicking after having a bit of a rough start last season and players around them are stepping up as well.

Dereck Lively II has been the third most important player on this team behind Irving and Doncic, and Tim Hardaway Jr. has played his way into the Sixth Man of the Year race.

Dallas fans should be excited about the future of this team, but it looks as if they are at least one move away.

6 Dallas Mavericks who are expendable, and 6 they can't afford to trade

Their defense is not the best and rebounding is still an issue. Thus, it looks like the best way to improve this team is through the trade market. Dallas is known for making moves at the deadline, and I don't see this year being any different.

Here are six Dallas Mavericks players who are expendable and six that they can't afford to trade.

12. Expendable: Richaun Holmes

Even though Richaun Holmes has become the Mavs' backup big over the last few weeks due to Maxi Kleber's toe injury, he is not someone who should be untouchable on this roster.

Holmes was recently listed as one of the Mavs' top trade candidates due to Dallas' already packed frontcourt and his moveable contract. He seems like someone who could get moved at the deadline, and his role could easily be replaced.

Although Dwight Powell hasn't been the best during his minutes this season, he wouldn't be a massive drop-off from Holmes. They could also look to add a backup rim protector via the trade market to fill in for Holmes.

Fans should also remember that Holmes was included in rumored draft day trade talks when the Mavs were talking with the Phoenix Suns about a potential move for Deandre Ayton. Holmes isn't untouchable by any means, and I don't think it would shock anyone if he is playing for a different team once the trade deadline rolls around.