Nick Angstadt here, the host of the daily Locked On Mavericks podcast, with your daily Locked On Mavericks newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Mavericks and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
The Dallas Mavericks Are Making Trade Calls
Nov 3, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Dwight Powell (left) speaks with Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison (right) before the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Orlando Magic at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron/Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The Dallas Mavericks have been one of the most active teams on the phones for the trade market, according to recent reports. As the trade deadline approaches, it’s crucial to examine what calls General Manager Nico Harrison should be making to improve the team’s roster.
One of the primary targets that comes to mind is Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans. Jones, a 26-year-old elite wing defender, could be the missing piece that elevates the Mavericks’ defense to the next level. While the Pelicans have previously stated they’re not interested in trading Jones, we’ve seen how quickly things can change in the NBA.
The addition of an elite defensive wing like Jones could significantly impact the Mavericks’ performance, similar to how Lu Dort affects the Oklahoma City Thunder’s defense. Jones’ ability to lock down opponents could raise the floor of the team and provide more flexibility in defensive schemes.
Another potential target to consider is Matisse Thybulle of the Portland Trail Blazers. Thybulle, an All-Defensive team member, could be an intriguing option for the Mavericks. His contract matches up well with Maxi Kleber’s, making a potential deal more feasible.
Exploring Other Options
While focusing on defensive improvements, it’s also essential to consider offensive upgrades. Kyle Kuzma of the Washington Wizards is a name worth revisiting. Despite previous reluctance to join the Mavericks, rumors suggest he may now be open to the idea. Kuzma’s scoring ability and versatility could provide a significant boost to the team’s offense.
It’s crucial for Harrison to make calls and assess the trade value of current players like Quentin Grimes and Maxi Kleber. Understanding their market value can help in making informed decisions as the trade deadline approaches.
The Mavericks should also keep an eye on potential multi-team deals, especially those involving high-profile players like Jimmy Butler. Being involved as a third or fourth team in such transactions could present opportunities to acquire valuable assets or players that fit the team’s needs.
For more insights and a deeper dive into potential trade targets and strategies for the Dallas Mavericks, tune into the Locked On Mavericks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Mavericks Podcast:
- The impact of Lonzo Ball’s potential availability
- Assessing the value of versatile backup big men
- The importance of adding offensive firepower to complement Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving
The Cavs, the Thunder, and the joy of a job well done
Jan 8, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Caris LeVert (3) during the first half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. | Ken Blaze/Imagn Images
The ESPN broadcast had its usual coach interview at the start of the fourth quarter, but the dialogue was far from typical. Instead of anodyne coach-speak, a smiling Kenny Atkinson marveled at the basketball being played before him.
“What a great basketball game,” the Cavaliers coach gushed. “I wish I could just sit back and watch it.”
As someone who did precisely that, I can say that Atkinson sure wasn’t wrong.
Cleveland/OKC had something for everyone. There were loud dunks, post moves, occasional but far from overwhelming flurries of three-pointers, high-level shotmaking, ping-pong ball movement, and great all-around defense (despite what the final score might indicate).
The major players exerted maximum effort on both sides and played more than their usual share of minutes. Coaches unveiled tactical adjustments at a lightning pace, counters to counters at a rate you usually only see in the playoffs. There was even a lot of zone defense (which, if you read Basketball Poetry, you would’ve been prepared for!). The refs were largely inobtrusive and inconsequential.
Frankly, if you didn’t like this game, there’s not much hope for you.
Something that struck me halfway through an exquisite third quarter: everyone on the court was simply doing their job. I don’t love how that sentence reads on paper; it makes it sound like a dull affair, people clocking in and clocking out before going to a chain bar with flashing neon signs instead of character for their preferred domestic light pilsner of choice.
That couldn’t be further from the truth. What is an NBA player’s job if not to entertain?
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Analysis A look at the state of zone defense in the NBA. Who’s running it, and who isn’t? (Basketball Poetry)
Must Read NBA greats think this D-II coach is a basketball genius. So why don’t you know who Jim Crutchfield is? (The Athletic)
Analysis Is this the worst rookie class in modern NBA history? Jared Dubin examines box-score production to compare this year’s rookies to the past. (Last Night in Basketball)
Watch The Dallas Mavericks’ win over the Lakers highlighted the team’s resilience and determination, showcasing their ability to fight back even in challenging circumstances. (Mavs Moneyball)
Ranking Analyzing the Mavericks’ upcoming schedule, the next 19 games are ranked based on their winnability, providing insights into which matchups could be more favorable for Dallas. (Mavs Moneyball)
Preview The Trail Blazers will clash with the Mavericks at American Airlines Center at 8:30 PM ET. Read the preview.(NBA)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Must-Add Players and Surprising Drops
Jan 7, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. (11) is defended by Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins (22) during the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images | John Hefti/John Hefti-Imagn Images
As we approach the NBA trade deadline, it’s crucial to stay on top of the fantasy basketball waiver wire. Let’s dive into the most added and dropped players over the last 48 hours, and discuss some must-roster options for your fantasy teams.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. tops the list of most added players on Basketball Monster. While he’s had two solid games recently, I’m cautious about his long-term value, especially if Jimmy Butler is traded. Remember, any incoming player in a Butler trade could easily take over his role and minutes.
Ryan Dunn is another popular add, likely due to the Suns’ five-game week. However, he’s not a long-term hold for 12-team leagues. Use him for the extra games this week, but be prepared to move on quickly.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is seeing increased opportunities with Paul George out, making him a solid short-term add. Naji Marshall has also been playing well and is worth considering, despite a recent poor shooting night.
The Dallas Mavericks suffered a controversial loss to the New Orleans Pelicans in a game marred by a missed goaltending call. How did the Mavs respond without Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and what impact did the officiating have on the NBA game’s outcome?
The Dallas Mavericks are searching for their next elite defender to complement Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Can the Mavs find a hidden gem like they did with Derrick Jones Jr. last season to bolster their NBA championship aspirations?
The Dallas Mavericks suffered a heartbreaking loss to the Denver Nuggets despite building a 19-point lead. How did the Mavs, playing without Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, manage to compete against a healthy Nuggets squad featuring Nikola Jokic?
