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The Dallas Mavericks tested whether to look for a “perimeter defender” at the NBA trade deadline of Feb. 6 before, according to The Athletic's. Christian Clark.
If this is the path the Mavs pursue, Clark dismissed one potential candidate, saying there is “little faith in NBA circles” that the New Orleans Pelicans would move forward Herb Jones.
Shams Charania of ESPN reported on Dec. 10 that teams have shown increased interest in players on the Pelicans team, Jones included, with a team that got off to a scary start. However, NBA Insider Marc Stein and Jake Fischer followed up on Dec. 15 saying New Orleans was “naturally inconsistent” with any offer for the 26-year-old.
For the Mavericks, improving their defense before the deadline would make sense as this is a concern as long as their team revolves around Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Neither is a good defender, which leaves Dallas vulnerable when attacking.
The Mavs are here 11 p.m defensive level (110.8), which is up from 18th place finish in 2023-24, on NBA.com. They bolstered their defense in the offseason by adding Klay Thompson and Naji Marshall, while Dereck Lively II continues to excel as a rim protector in his second season.
However, going through the Western Conference in the playoffs means facing a combination of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Ja Morant, Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards and Devin Booker. Whoever wins in the East will also boast a formidable rear.
Improving their defense wouldn't be a bad idea for the Mavericks.
