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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Kyrie Irving has made his return to the Dallas Mavericks lineup. However, unfortunately, Luka Doncic finds himself on the injury report due to an ankle injury ahead of the clash with the Philadelphia 76ers. As a result, a cloud of intensity looms over the franchise as they have lost 6 of their last 8 games. Moreover, the gaps they aimed to fill at the season’s start are now widening. With the trade season approaching, the team might be compelled to address these issues definitively as injuries continue to take a toll.

As per Dallas’ own reporter, the Mavericks are teetering on the edge of a ‘must-make-a-trade’ mode. Last season, despite initially appearing healthy and promising, the team faced struggles that eventually led to their elimination from the playoff race. This year, it is evident that they are determined to avoid a repeat of that part of their history.

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With a current season record of 26-23, the Mavs find themselves just ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers for the 8th spot. This means that they have a minimal margin for error. As the trade deadline looms just days away, waiting for the roster to get healthy is not a viable option for the Mavericks.

Read More – Mavericks Injury Report: Update on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving’s Availability Status for Tonight’s Game vs Bucks

Even at their optimal health, the team faced the challenges of being one of the smallest teams. Lacking a dependable power forward and center has been a sensitive area for them all season long. Now, if the Dallas Mavericks want to stay in the game, the only is to climb up the conference ladder. Additionally, if they wish to be part of the contending conversations, they need to make some strategic shifts in their roster.

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Who can pair up with Luka Doncic and Co?

Not surprisingly, the Dallas Mavericks are actively pursuing lengthy wings, with potential targets including Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards and PJ Washington from the Charlotte Hornets. However, given their pressing concerns, the team might shift focus if a more defensively reliable power forward emerges on their radar. Currently ranked 24th in defense with a 117.9 rating this season, the Mavericks are eager to improve in the coming weeks.

This opens up discussions involving former Maverick Dorian Finney-Smith, Golden State Warrior Andrew Wiggins, and Portland Trail Blazer Jerami Grant. Additionally, recent mentions also link names like Daniel Gafford and Miles Bridges to the Mavericks.

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When evaluating tradable assets, the Mavericks’ first-round pick only extends to 2027, indicating a likelihood of parting ways with some of their young talents. Fans are now anticipating a potential blockbuster deal, as Dallas has consistently made headline-grabbing trades around the mid-season deadline in the past two seasons.