The Dallas Mavericks have some major decisions to make after firing general manager Nico Harrison.
The Mavericks can either begin to build around rookie sensation Cooper Flagg or look to continue contending with veteran All-Stars Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson. Given Davis’ inability to stay healthy, Thompson’s regression in recent years, and their 6-15 record, the former route appears more likely to happen under new management.
Trading for an All-Star who better fits Flagg’s timeline is a potential way to start down that path.
Mavericks Predicted To Trade for LaMelo Ball
The Charlotte Hornets (6-14) simply are once again failing to compete with LaMelo Ball at the helm.
Because of this, the Hornets could look to move on from Ball and instead continue their rebuild around Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. PFSN’s Brandon Austin predicts the Hornets could trade Ball to the Mavericks in the coming months.
“Though the Mavericks still face questions about their broader roster and future assets, Ball’s youth and skill set offer a fresh direction, especially as they potentially contemplate moving on from Anthony Davis,” Austin wrote. “Ball’s ability to set up teammates and stretch defenses could complement Flagg’s two-way versatility and create a dynamic new core.”
Ball is just 24 years old, so it’s more than possible his best years in the NBA are ahead of him. He is averaging 19.5 points, 8.5 assists, and 6.2 rebounds on 37.9% shooting and 28.1% shooting from three-point range in 13 appearances this season.
His statistics being down could work in Dallas’ favor, as it could cost significantly less to pry the former No. 3 pick from Charlotte.
When healthy, Ball remains an electrifying player to watch. Not to mention, he offers the Mavericks a sense of security because he has four seasons remaining on his five-year, $203 million contract.
It’s tough to say exactly what the Hornets would request in return for their franchise cornerstone, but the sooner the Mavericks commit to building around Flagg, the better.