NBA Rumors: ‘Aggressive’ Mavericks Could Target Ex-Lakers Star in a Trade Amid Stalled Talks With Pascal Siakam

The Dallas Mavericks have started the season as they mean to go on. With the season almost reaching its halfway mark, the Mavericks currently occupy a guaranteed playoff spot. Furthermore, they managed to accomplish this feat despite Kyrie Irving being sidelined for a significant portion of the season due to injuries. Luka Doncic’s outstanding form has played a pivotal role in Dallas’ impressive performances this season.

Despite establishing themselves as one of the best teams in the Western Conference, the Mavs are on the lookout to further improve their roster. However, their “aggressive” pursuit of Pascal Siakam and Jeremi Grant has stalled. And, the Mavs have shifted their attention towards former Laker, Kyle Kuzma.

Mavericks interested in Kyle Kuzma

The competition for the NBA title in the Western Conference is intensifying, with numerous teams competing for the eight available playoff spots. The Mavericks have performed admirably so far this season. But they belong to the group of teams that may not have the caliber to contend for the NBA title. However, the Mavs’ hierarchy is trying to change that. In recent days, reports have emerged that the Mavs have shown interest in Wizards’ star, Kyle Kuzma after their “aggressive” pursuit of Siakam and Grant has stalled.

The Mavericks have been put off by the price tag that the Raptors and Blazers have quoted for Siakam and Grant, respectively. They view the price tags as “a little too steep”. As a result, the Mavericks have started to monitor Kyle Kuzma as another option. While acquiring Kuzma could enhance the Mavericks’ offensive capabilities, it doesn’t address their primary issue of defense. On the other hand, both Siakam and Grant are known for their outstanding defensive skills. Opting for a trade involving Siakam or Grant would be a more sensible move for the Mavericks than acquiring Kuzma.

Is trading for Siakam the right move?

The Mavericks possess two of the best backcourt players in the league. However, they lack quality in frontcourt options. While Grant Williams, Derrick Jones Jr., and Dante Exum are all good players, they lack game-changing qualities, which superstars like Siakam possess. A trade for Siakam would instantly make the Mavs one of the favorites for the title.

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However, trading for Siakam comes with risks. Siakam is currently on an expiring contract and if the Mavs were to trade for him, then they would need a guarantee that Siakam would resign with them in the offseason. This makes a trade for Pascal really complex. However, the Mavs pulled off such a trade for Irving last season, so they could decide to take a chance again. After all, you can’t win the lottery, if you don’t buy a ticket.

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