With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching on February 6th, the Dallas Mavericks find themselves once again at the center of trade speculation. As the Mavs aim to maximize the Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving era, General Manager Nico Harrison is likely to continue his streak of wheeling and dealing at the deadline. Let’s dive into three proposed trades that could shape the Mavericks’ season—and grade their impact.
Trade 1: Mavericks receive Matisse Thybulle; Trail Blazers receive Maxi Kleber
The Proposal
This swap sends defensive stalwart Matisse Thybulle to Dallas in exchange for Maxi Kleber. Nico Harrison has long been a fan of Thybulle, previously extending him an offer sheet in 2023.
Why It Works
- Thybulle’s defensive prowess: Dallas badly needs a wing defender, and Thybulle is one of the league’s premier stoppers on the perimeter. He could be a vital cog in containing opponents’ top scorers, a glaring weakness for the Mavs.
- Kleber’s struggles: Maxi Kleber’s offensive production has dipped this season, making his departure more palatable.
Concerns
- Thybulle’s shooting: While Thybulle thrives on defense, his offensive limitations (career 32.5% three-point shooter) could hinder spacing alongside Doncic and Irving.
- Injury risk: Thybulle hasn’t played this season due to an ankle injury, raising concerns about his immediate impact.
Grade: B-
Thybulle’s defensive presence could elevate the Mavs’ perimeter defense, but his offensive liabilities and injury history temper the excitement.
Trade 2: Mavericks receive Santi Aldama; Grizzlies receive Jaden Hardy, Olivier-Maxence Prosper
The Proposal
The Mavericks trade young assets Jaden Hardy and Olivier-Maxence Prosper to the Memphis Grizzlies for versatile forward Santi Aldama.
Why It Works
- Aldama’s fit: Aldama is a modern forward with playmaking, rebounding, and shooting skills, making him an ideal fit alongside Doncic and Irving.
- Dallas’ win-now mentality: Hardy and Prosper have potential but haven’t earned Jason Kidd’s trust, and Dallas can’t afford to wait for their development.
Concerns
- Giving up on young talent: Hardy showed promise before his ankle injuries, and Prosper’s energy has been a bright spot. Moving on from both for a solid but not elite player like Aldama feels short-sighted.
- Aldama’s expiring contract: There’s no guarantee the Mavs could retain him beyond this season.
Grade: B
Aldama’s skills align well with Dallas’ needs, but giving up Hardy and Prosper feels like a steep price for a rental.
Trade 3: Mavericks receive Andre Drummond, Adem Bona; 76ers receive Spencer Dinwiddie, Dwight Powell
The Proposal
Dallas swaps Spencer Dinwiddie and Dwight Powell for backup center Andre Drummond and young forward Adem Bona.
Why It Works
- Drummond’s rebounding: The Mavs desperately need help on the boards, and Drummond remains one of the league’s best rebounders.
- Bona’s potential: As a developmental prospect, Bona could be a long-term solution in the frontcourt.
Concerns
- Minimal roster improvement: Drummond’s impact is limited, and Bona is more of a project than an immediate contributor.
- Powell’s value: Dwight Powell is a locker room leader and a trusted veteran. Trading him for minimal returns could disrupt team chemistry.
Grade: D-
This trade does little to move the needle for Dallas. Drummond addresses rebounding, but the Mavericks would lose more than they gain.
Final thoughts
Of the three proposed trades, acquiring Matisse Thybulle offers the most upside, but none of these deals are transformative enough to vault Dallas into serious contention. The Mavericks’ best path forward may involve targeting more significant upgrades or holding onto their assets for a blockbuster trade in the offseason.
Dallas’ trade deadline strategy will likely shape not only their 2025 playoff run but also the franchise’s long-term trajectory. Let’s see if Nico Harrison can pull another rabbit out of the hat.