The Dallas Mavericks are on the hunt to solidify their roster, aiming to build on their impressive 2024 NBA Finals run. Despite their success, depth issues and a lack of stability limited the team’s ability to capitalize on their playoff momentum. With limited trade assets, Dallas must make each move count, identifying players who will fit seamlessly with their current lineup and maximize their postseason potential. Here’s a look at the Mavericks’ trade needs and three potential targets that could help push them over the edge.
Dallas Mavericks Trade Target
Limited Assets, Big Needs
To compete at the highest level, the Mavericks must address several key areas. They need a reliable point-of-attack defender who can take the pressure off Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Additionally, a stretch big would be invaluable, adding versatility to the bench and enabling Dallas to go small when needed. Lastly, the team needs consistent role players who can thrive in structured, high-pressure environments and maintain availability throughout the season.
John Konchar: Back-Up Wing Stopper Target
John Konchar could be a key addition for Dallas, bringing defensive grit and savvy off-ball movement to the team. Known for his work as a wing-stopper, Konchar would be an ideal candidate to help stabilize the Mavericks’ perimeter defense. Konchar’s off-ball abilities align well with Doncic’s elite playmaking. Though his jump shot is still a work in progress, his growing ability to find open spaces would complement Doncic’s style.
Konchar’s strengths align with the Mavericks’ needs for depth and defensive stability. He could serve as a steady point-of-attack defender from the bench, and his ability to play off the ball would let Doncic leverage his passing vision, setting up Konchar for open perimeter shots.
Taurean Prince: Veteran Shooting PF Target
Taurean Prince, a forward known for his reliable shooting, brings exactly the type of stretch-four versatility that Dallas needs in its small-ball lineups. Prince’s shooting creates vital spacing, giving Doncic and Irving ample room to attack the basket. Beyond his offensive contributions, Prince’s experience and ability to rotate defensively would strengthen the Mavericks’ schemes.
Prince’s shooting efficiency is invaluable. He would give Dallas a floor spacer who can spot up in half-court sets, opening up scoring lanes for their offense. Defensively, his experience enables him to execute on rotations and hold his own in matchups, making him a playoff asset.
Dorian Finney-Smith: 3-and-D Veteran Target
Bringing back Dorian Finney-Smith would fill a glaring need for Dallas and offer a familiar veteran presence. Finney-Smith, a proven 3-and-D player, has the flexibility to guard multiple positions and enough offensive capability to keep defenses honest. His understanding of the Mavericks’ system and his chemistry with Doncic would help him quickly reintegrate, adding reliable defense and leadership to the rotation.
Finney-Smith would upgrade the Mavericks’ perimeter defense while supplying around league-average accuracy from the three-point line. His return to Dallas could be seamless, offering a steady presence on both ends of the floor. Finney-Smith’s leadership and rapport with the team would also ensure he is a vocal and strategic contributor, helping the Mavericks stay disciplined in critical moments.
How These Players Elevate the Mavericks’ Depth and Title Aspirations
Each of these players would address specific needs for Dallas while blending into the Mavericks’ existing system. Doncic’s elite playmaking would elevate each of these targets, maximizing their effectiveness on the floor. Konchar’s defense, Prince’s shooting, and Finney-Smith’s leadership would reinforce Dallas’ depth and add the consistency often lacking in playoff runs.
Adding any combination of these players could ease the load, fortify the bench, and give the Mavericks a well-rounded lineup. For a team looking to build on its NBA Finals appearance, the right Dallas Mavericks trade targets could make all the difference in solidifying another championship-contending season.
