The Dallas Mavericks are actively pursuing moves to strengthen their roster, aiming to improve their chances of clinching the NBA championship in a season where they face a challenging road in the highly competitive Western Conference.
Despite having two Hall-of-Fame caliber talents in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, star power hasn't translated into consistent success for the team. They encountered difficulties in previous years, notably missing out on the play-in tournament last season as the 11th seed.
The offseason brought significant changes, including the selection of two first-round draft picks (Cason Wallace and Dereck Lively II) and the acquisition of players like Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and Dante Exum.
While these moves have contributed to a slight improvement, the Mavericks hold the eighth spot in the Western Conference with a 26-23 record. However, they face challenges, having gone 3-7 in their last ten games, including an ongoing two-game losing streak.
To rejuvenate the struggling team, a dynamic trade might be the key to turning things around.
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Who Should the Dallas Mavericks Trade For Between Andrew Wiggins and Miles Bridges?
The case for Andrew Wiggins
Andrew Wiggins could be a legitimate third option behind Doncic and Irving for the Dallas Mavericks. Notably, he played a crucial role as the undisputed second-best player behind Stephen Curry on the Warriors team that secured the NBA championship in 2022, showcasing his championship pedigree.
Wiggins possesses a natural ability to slash to the basket and is a valuable two-way player, providing an added defensive dimension to a Mavericks team that currently lacks in that department.
However, it's important to acknowledge that Wiggins is experiencing an underwhelming season with Golden State, a trend that has persisted since the previous season.
In 42 games this year, he averages 12.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. The 28-year-old is on the first year of a four-year, $109 million contract, earning $24.3 million in the 2023-24 season.
The case for Miles Bridges
Bridges is currently averaging 20.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 36 games this season. As a tall 6-foot-7 wing, he possesses all the intangibles needed to elevate the Mavericks to the next level.
While the 25-year-old player may be outperforming Wiggins statistically, it's important to note that he currently operates under a one-year contract valued at $7.9 million.
As he approaches unrestricted free agency this summer, there's a risk that he might explore other opportunities and potentially sign a more lucrative deal elsewhere, leaving the Mavs with the possibility of losing him without receiving compensation in return.
The verdict:
The Mavericks might find more stability in opting for Wiggins, a safer bet due to his longer-term contract and proven championship experience.
While it comes with a higher price tag in the salary cap, it could be a more secure deal, especially when compared to Bridgers, who is on a one-year contract and comes with off-court controversy.
Wiggins's known skill set, coupled with his championship background, could make him a more appealing choice for the team's long-term objectives.
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