Rumors: Mavericks exploring Dorian Finney-Smith trades

The Dallas Mavericks face some difficult decisions in building a title contender around superstar Luka Doncic. They need more talent on their roster, but the front office is facing luxury tax concerns as the 22-year-old superstar’s contract extension kicks in this summer. How can the Mavs jump into title contention without hamstringing their future?

Dorian Finney-Smith and Jalen Brunson both enter unrestricted free agency at the end of this season. JB’s breakout fourth season will have teams willing to pay him like a starting point guard, and Doe-Doe’s versatility makes him the ideal player for any contending roster. The Mavericks have their Bird rights, but will they be able to retain both players?

Rumors suggest the Mavs front office could get ahead of the situation by trading Finney-Smith before the Feb. 10 deadline. Michael Scotto discussed it on the HoopsHype podcast, and Jake Fischer confirmed the rumor in his latest article on Bleacher Report. Will the Mavs trade away their starting wing?

Rumors: Mavericks exploring Dorian Finney-Smith trades

The Mavs do not want to lose Finney-Smith in free agency without getting a return, but they should be exploring other avenues to lower their payroll. Doe-Doe has transformed into a strong 3-and-D forward that would have a starting role on almost any team in the league. Dallas signed him to a value contract back in 2019, and they need to find a way to retain him long-term.

Fischer noted the Pacers as a suitor for Finney-Smith, but they would be far from the only team interested in acquiring the 28-year-old. Contending teams will be lining up, but it is hard to imagine the Mavericks improving their roster this season in the deal. The team’s defense is likely to take a step back, which is counterintuitive to head coach Jason Kidd’s philosophy.

The Dallas Mavericks are looking to upgrade at the trade deadline, and the rumors are just starting to heat up. Be sure to check back to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest as Feb. 10 approaches.