6 Win-now Dallas Mavericks trade targets if Nico Harrison wants to go all-in

Dec 26, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Bojan Bogdanovic
Dec 26, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Bojan Bogdanovic | Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
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2. De'Andre Hunter

De'Andre Hunter might just be the most difficult player on this list to trade for. He's a 26-year-old forward capable of defending multiple positions and scoring in a myriad of ways.

Unlike Dorian Finney-Smith and Royce O'Neale, Hunter relies on other methods of scoring besides the three ball. About 43 percent of Hunter's looks come from beyond the arc. He shoots 20 percent of his attempts at the rim, 15 percent from 3-to-10 feet, and 16 percent from the mid-range.

The Mavericks lack a solidified scoring option behind Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Tim Hardaway Jr. Hunter would provide just that, but more along the lines of a 3A or 3B scoring option alongside Hardaway Jr.

Despite Hunter's overall usefulness, the Hawks have been worse with him on the floor this season. However, take Hunter's on/off splits with a grain of salt. Atlanta is also worse with Dejounte Murray, Clint Capela, and Onyeka Okongwu on the floor.

The Hawks have struggled mightily this season despite a well-constructed roster. Atlanta sits at 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 12-18 record. Some players have begun receiving interest on the trade market already.

It might be time for the Hawks to shake up the roster. And with depth at the forward spot, Hunter may be collateral. The Atlanta wing is owed $90 million over the next four seasons. And while his play has been good, he may never justify the price tag in Atlanta.

On the Mavericks, Hunter would be given the option to start at either forward spot. Additionally, Hunter is used to playing with two ball-dominant guards, Murray and Trae Young, thus the transition would be seamless.

If Dallas were to make a move on Hunter, a draft pick, a bigger contract (think Grant Williams, Richaun Holmes, or Maxi Kleber), and a young player would likely be required to acquire Hunter's services.

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