NBA Rumors: Dallas Mavericks Linked To 3 Players on Trade Front

The Dallas Mavericks have proven themselves as a true force in the Western Conference, winning 11 of their last 13 games, and moving up into the middle of the playoff pack. But they still feel they need another piece to give Luka Doncic a little more help, and solidify their roster. 

According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, although the Mavericks have backed off their pursuit of the injured Myles Turner, they have been linked to Jerami Grant of the Detroit Pistons, the Atlanta Hawks' John Collins, and the Boston Celtics' Marcus Smart. 

Pincus reports that the Mavs are a "dark horse" team in the chase for the coveted Grant. He mentions free agent-to-be Dorian Finney-Smith and Dwight Powell as the pieces that could be sent to Detroit in return. However, as we reported earlier today, the Pistons have their eyes on two particular big men if they are to deal Grant. 

Collins has been on the Dallas radar for a while now, as they made a run at him at last year's trade deadline and in the offseason. And while his name has also swirled around Ben Simmons talks, it's unlikely Atlanta will be able to meet Philadelphia's exorbitant price, so the Mavs should certainly continue to do their due diligence with the Hawks.  

The Dallas #Mavericks have been linked to Marcus Smart, according to @EricPincus. #Celtics pic.twitter.com/Ip8lGBa0CB

— Boston Sports Tok (@BostonSportTok) January 24, 2022

Smart would bring another strong defensive piece to the Mavs' backcourt, and a backup point guard should they be forced to deal another free agent-to-be Jalen Brunson. 

The Mavs are hoping to advance farther into the playoffs this season than the 1st round, something they haven't done since their championship season over 10 years ago. 

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