Mavs Rated Winners In Hardaway Jr. Trade for Grimes

The Dallas Mavericks have solidified their position as the clear winners of the Tim Hardaway Jr. trade, setting the stage for what could be considered an elite offseason. As the dust settles on this pivotal move, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the Mavs have not only improved their roster but also opened up new possibilities for team building.

Following the Mavericks’ NBA Finals loss to the Boston Celtics, speculation about Tim Hardaway Jr.’s future with the team was rampant. Despite a record-setting performance in Game 4 of the Finals, where he knocked down five three-pointers, Hardaway’s departure seemed inevitable after completely falling out of the rotation. The team had previously explored trading him, and even Hardaway himself was uncertain about his status for the 2023-24 season.

Dallas traded Hardaway Jr. and three second-round picks to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Quentin Grimes. This trade has been hailed by analysts, including Bleacher Report ’s Dan Favale, as Dallas’ biggest win of the summer. The move not only brought in a talented player in Grimes but also provided the Mavericks with much-needed financial flexibility.

By moving Hardaway Jr.’s contract, the Mavericks gained the ability to fully utilize the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. This trade played a crucial role in creating cap space for the arrival of Klay Thompson, a move that would have been significantly more challenging with Hardaway Jr. still on the books. Additionally, it simplified the process of signing Naji Marshall, further bolstering the team’s depth.

While Hardaway Jr. had his moments in Dallas, the acquisition of Grimes represents a clear upgrade for the Mavericks. Grimes may not possess the same explosive scoring potential as Hardaway, but he brings a well-rounded skill set that fits perfectly into Jason Kidd’s system.

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He’s an elite defender who takes pride in guarding the opposition’s best players, a trait that aligns well with Kidd’s defensive philosophy. Offensively, Grimes is a capable shooter both off the catch and off the dribble, with a solid mid-range game. He’s also focusing on improving his playmaking skills this offseason, which could add another dimension to his game.

The Tim Hardaway Jr. trade represents a significant win for the Dallas Mavericks. By moving on from Hardaway, the team has not only upgraded their roster with Quentin Grimes but also created the financial flexibility needed to make additional moves. As the Mavericks look to build on their recent success, this trade could be remembered as a key turning point in their pursuit of an NBA championship.