Rumors: Mavericks viewed as most likely to land Myles Turner by execs

The Dallas Mavericks are searching for an upgrade at the five. Head coach Jason Kidd has made it clear that he views Kristaps Porzingis as a power forward, and the team has struggled to get consistent production from their centers. The Mavs waived Willie Cauley-Stein to keep Marquese Chriss to shake things up a bit. Dwight Powell averages just 7.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, despite starting most of the season.

Dallas has been rumored to be chasing Pacers center Myles Turner for weeks. Indiana wants to shake up their roster and splitting up the Turner and Domantas Sabonis pairing is the most logical move.

Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus filled fans in on the latest rumors on Jan. 17, and he uncovered plenty about the Mavericks. Here is a look at the latest.

Rumors: Mavericks viewed as most likely to land Myles Turner

Pincus went deep on the Turner to Dallas rumors. He noted that multiple rival executives view “the Mavericks as the favorite for Turner with Dwight Powell and one of Dorian Finney-Smith or Jalen Brunson”. Rick Carlisle has long viewed Powell as one of his favorite players, so a reunion in Indiana should come as no surprise. The Mavs are also rumored to be shopping their two soon-to-be unrestricted free agents.

Turner is currently dealing with a foot injury, and it is worth monitoring. The Mavericks and other teams are likely to steer clear if the 6’11 big man is forced to miss an extended stretch.

Dallas would love to add one of the best shot-blockers in the league, especially with head coach Jason Kidd’s emphasis on defense this season. Turner also stretches the floor and is one of the league's top defensive anchors.

Can the Mavs pull off a deal for Turner without giving up draft compensation? Indiana wants to win now, so swapping role players could be a path to both teams improving. It is a situation worth monitoring moving forward.

The Smoking Cuban will have all the Dallas Mavericks rumors and analysis for supporters ahead of the Feb. 10 trade deadline, so please check back with us often for all the latest.