Mavs Make Significant Trades Before Deadline
Gafford and Dinwiddie Acquired
The Dallas Mavericks have made a pair of trades before Thursday's deadline, acquiring Daniel Gafford from the Washington Wizards and Spencer Dinwiddie from the Brooklyn Nets. In exchange, the Mavericks traded Kristaps Porzingis and a second-round pick to the Wizards, while sending Cason Wallace to the Oklahoma City Thunder for Dereck Lively II.
Impact on Mavs Defense
Daniel Gafford is expected to provide an immediate boost to the Mavericks' interior defense. The Mavericks currently allow 53.5 points in the paint per game, which ranks among the worst in the league. Gafford's rim protection and rebounding ability should help shore up this weakness.
Dinwiddie Adds Scoring Punch
Spencer Dinwiddie brings a scoring punch to the Mavericks' backcourt. He is averaging 17.4 points per game this season and is a capable playmaker. Dinwiddie's addition should help take some of the pressure off Luka Doncic and provide the Mavericks with another offensive option.
Washington Acquires Shooting
The Wizards, on the other hand, acquire a much-needed shooting threat in Kristaps Porzingis. The Latvian big man is shooting 37.6% from three-point range this season, which would be a significant upgrade for the Wizards. Porzingis' presence should help open up the floor for Bradley Beal and others.
Thunder Add Young Talent
The Thunder, who are rebuilding for the future, add a promising young prospect in Cason Wallace. The 19-year-old guard is considered one of the top defenders in the 2023 draft class. Wallace should fit in well with the Thunder's young core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey.
Overall Impact
These trades have the potential to significantly impact the playoff races in both the Eastern and Western Conferences. The Mavericks have addressed their biggest weakness by acquiring Gafford, while the Wizards have added a much-needed shooting threat. The Thunder, meanwhile, have added a promising young player to their roster.
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