The Dallas Mavericks had a tremendous run in the 2023-24 campaign by making the NBA Finals as the sixth seed in the West with a 50-32 record. Led by superstars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving , the Mavericks were a very talented team that just couldn’t overcome the mighty Boston Celtics. Looking ahead to this summer, the Mavericks will look to massively re-tool the roster and could engage in an impossible blockbuster deal and acquire superstar target Kevin Durant .
Kevin Durant’s time in Phoenix could be up after failing to make an impact with the Suns, finishing with a 49-33 record before getting swept in the first round of the playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. No doubt, Durant would welcome a chance to play in Dallas, and here is the blockbuster deal that could somehow be offered.
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Tim Hardaway Jr, Josh Green, Daniel Gafford, Jaden Hardy, 2024 Second-Round Pick (BOS), 2025 Second-Round Pick (TOR)
This is a blockbuster trade of epic proportions and seems almost impossible to happen, but here is the full breakdown and grade for the Mavericks and Suns.
Dallas Mavericks Create The Most Skilled Big Three In NBA History
The Dallas Mavericks made a remarkable run to the NBA Finals in 2024, led by the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, their bench depth proved to be a limiting factor in their quest for a championship. By trading away key bench players like Tim Hardaway Jr., Josh Green, Daniel Gafford, and Jaden Hardy to acquire Kevin Durant, the Mavericks are betting on the creation of a historic Big Three.
Even at 35, Durant remains one of the premier scorers in the league, seamlessly fitting into an off-the-ball role while Luka orchestrates the offense. The superstar forward averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game on 52.3% from the field, 41.3% from three, and 85.6% from the free-throw line. These numbers indicate Durant has still got it and has at least two more seasons at a superstar level.
This trade doesn't just add a third star to the mix; it reunites Durant with Irving, who share a close friendship and on-court chemistry. This exciting reunion enhances the Mavericks' dynamics, as Durant’s presence can elevate the team, making them the most skilled Big Three in NBA history and formidable contenders in the West.
Phoenix Suns Re-Tool Around Superstar Devin Booker
The Phoenix Suns, with their Big Three of Durant, Devin Booker , and Bradley Beal , faced challenges in balancing three high-volume scorers. By trading Durant, they can retool their roster around Booker, their 27-year-old superstar entering his prime, allowing him to fully embrace the role of the team's leader after posting 27.1 points and 6.9 assists per game on 36.4% from three. Beal, who was not at his best as a third option (18.2 PPG), can now find his rhythm as the secondary scorer. The additions of Tim Hardaway Jr., Josh Green, Daniel Gafford, and Jaden Hardy provide the Suns with much-needed depth and versatility.
Green (8.2 PPG and 3.2 RPG on 38.5% from three) and Gafford (11.0 PPG and 7.6 RPG) bring defensive prowess and high-energy play, while Hardaway Jr. has the potential to bounce back from a subpar season. Meanwhile, Hardy, at just 21, offers promise as a talented young shooting guard. This trade offers the Suns a balanced roster that can support Booker and Beal effectively, positioning them for sustained success.
What Grade Should The Trade Be?
Dallas Mavericks: A+
The Dallas Mavericks receive an A+ for this trade as they acquire one of the best scorers in NBA history in Kevin Durant, forming a formidable Big Three with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. This move addresses their need for an additional star to complement their existing duo, significantly enhancing their championship aspirations. Durant's ability to score efficiently from anywhere on the court and his experience in high-pressure situations make him an invaluable asset.
His presence will also open up more opportunities for Luka and Kyrie, making the Mavericks' offense nearly unstoppable. By pulling off this trade, the Mavericks demonstrate a bold commitment to winning now, leveraging their assets to maximize their potential for immediate success. Moreover, the synergy between Durant and Irving, coupled with Luka's playmaking skills, creates a dynamic and versatile offensive powerhouse.
The Mavericks' willingness to part with key bench players and future draft assets showcases their determination to build a championship-caliber team around their core stars. While they sacrifice depth, the acquisition of Durant significantly boosts their chances of contending for an NBA title, making this trade an unequivocal win for Dallas. This aggressive move positions the Mavericks as serious contenders in the Western Conference, likely making them come out as favorites over the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Oklahoma City Thunder.
Phoenix Suns: C-
The Phoenix Suns receive a C- for this trade, as it signifies a step back in their pursuit of an immediate championship by trading away Kevin Durant, a top-tier talent. While the trade allows them to retool around Devin Booker, it raises questions about their ability to remain competitive at the highest level. The return package of Tim Hardaway Jr., Josh Green, Daniel Gafford, and Jaden Hardy, along with second-round picks, provides depth and future potential but lacks the star power to replace Durant's impact.
The addition of defensive-minded players like Green and Gafford can help improve the Suns' overall team balance, and Hardy's youth offers some promise for the future. However, the trade significantly reduces the Suns' ceiling and places immense pressure on Booker and Beal (turning 31 years old) to carry the team. While this approach might benefit the Suns in the long run, it comes at the cost of sacrificing a prime opportunity to compete for a championship with a proven superstar.
Related: Stephen A. Smith Says The Phoenix Suns Want To Trade Kevin Durant Right Now
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