Mavericks trade rumors: Desperate situation in Dallas ahead of deadline due to injury rash

Kyrie Irving has returned to the Dallas Mavericks lineup. Unfortunately, Luka Doncic injured his ankle prior to the game against the Philadelphia 76ers and was placed on the injury report. As a result, the team has lost six of its past eight games, and a cloud of intensity is gathering. Moreover, the gap they were aiming to close at the start of the season is now even wider. As trade season approaches and injuries continue to mount, teams may be forced to address these issues explicitly.

According to Dallas' own reporter, the Mavericks are teetering on the brink of “must trade” mode. Last season, despite initially looking healthy and promising, the team faced struggles that ultimately led to their elimination from the playoff race. This year, it's clear they're determined to avoid repeating some of that history.

With a current season record of 26 wins and 23 losses, the Mavs are in 8th place, just ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers. This means that errors are minimized. With the trade deadline just days away, waiting for the roster to become healthy is not a viable option for the Mavericks.

Mavericks injury report: Update on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving's availability for tonight's game against the Bucks

Even at optimal health, the team faced the challenge of being one of the smallest teams. The lack of a reliable power forward and center has been a sensitive area for them all season. Now, if the Dallas Mavericks want to stay in the game, they have no choice but to climb the conference ladder. Additionally, if you want to participate in a competitive conversation, you'll need to make strategic changes to your roster.

Who can pair up with Luka Doncic and others?

Unsurprisingly, the Dallas Mavericks are actively pursuing long wings, with potential targets including Kyle Kuzma of the Washington Wizards and PJ Washington of the Charlotte Hornets. However, given the immediate concerns, the team might shift focus if a more defensively reliable power forward comes on the team's radar. His defense currently ranks 24th this season with a 117.9 rating, but the Mavericks hope to improve in the coming weeks.

This begins a debate involving former Maverick Dorian Finney-Smith, Golden State Warrior Andrew Wiggins and Portland Trail Blazer Jerami Grant. Additionally, names like Daniel Gafford and Miles Bridges have also been linked to the Mavericks in recent mentions.

View this story – Shaquille O'Neal surprises 'dummy' Charles Barkley with a mystery call in new show premiere

Assessing tradeable assets indicates that the Mavericks' first-round pick is only extended through 2027, potentially allowing them to part with some young talent. Dallas has always made high-profile trades around the midseason deadline over the past two seasons, so fans are now hoping for a potential blockbuster contract.