The trade deadline effects are showing all around the league. Rumors are growing rampant. Many players are unsure if they will remain on the roster. We have already seen some moves happen too, with Pascal Siakam to the Pacers being the most significant. Another franchise that has been heavily linked to making a trade is the Dallas Mavericks.

The organization took a gamble in the offseason by signing Kyrie Irving to a 3-year $120 million extension despite them missing the playoffs after his arrival last season. Luckily, their gamble paid its dividends. Luka Doncic and KAI have looked formidable, and more importantly, a duo who are making the team better.

In Irving’s injury-ridden season so far, he has been the perfect complimentary for Luka Magic. The Slovenian has been on a tear, averaging 34 points per contest. The Mavs are looking to capitalize on the potency of their star duo. One move could put them into contention. However, there are a few hurdles to cross.

Luka Doncic might have to bid adieu to this teammate

ESPN senior writer and NBA insider Brian Windhorst did a thorough analysis of the much-anticipated trade deadline. With little over a week remaining, all teams have different motives. Everyone wants to make the golden trade that turns the tide. Picking out each player’s trade pawn, Windhorst suspects the Mavericks will trade Richaun Holmes.

The 6’10” forward is just returning from injury. Limited to 21 games, Holmes is majorly out of the rotation. He is averaging only 9.6 minutes per game and has started just once for Dallas. He is the fourth choice center for the Doncic-led side. His downgrade majorly happened due to Derrick Lively II’s splendid rookie season.

Holmes is under a $12 million contract this season. If clubbed with a few more players and their 2027 first-round pick, the Mavericks could formulate an enthralling trade offer. The only drawback to Holmes is his player option for next season. In trade exceptions, the Mavericks do have a reserve of $5 million. Yet, they can’t use it the most because they are only $3 million below tax.

According to Windhorst, the Mavericks won’t just casually dip into the trade exception they have created. The only way they will is if it is for “something special”.

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The only person who fits the description in the context of the team is Kyle Kuzma. The rumors mills claim the Wizards forward is a target for Dallas. His depreciating contract is a major reason the deal makes sense. Kuzma is a long forward who can stretch the floor and be a competent third-option scorer. Additionally, his size makes him a tough defensive matchup, something the Mavericks are desperately yearning for.

Whether he fits the ‘special’ mold is entirely up to the Mavs. They will have to offer Holmes, possibly Maxi Kleber, and some draft compensation. It will benefit the Mavericks as they would get a contributing forward in return, somewhat similar to what Christian Wood was for them.

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It will be a big commitment if they decide to take on Kuzma. But is it the only way they can make Luka Doncic’s majestic season count? Let us know what you think they should do in the comments below.