Mavericks looking to trade for former MVP to form big three

The James Harden trade saga continues, with a new suitor emerging to acquire the former MVP. The latest sportsbook odds have given the Mavericks a 14/1 (+1400) chance.

After months of rumors regarding Harden potentially rejoining the Rockets were put to rest by their head coach, and recent reports of the 76ers struggling to find a trade for Harden, the Mavericks may enter the picture to form a big 3 with their current star backcourt of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

After trading for Kyrie Irving during the middle of last season, the Mavericks struggled to find chemistry, resulting in a negative record and them missing the playoffs. Following a preseason sweep to the Timberwolves, they may be looking to add another talent to reshape their roster.





Is Harden a Good Fit For the Mavericks

At first glance, Harden may not appear to be a good fit for the Mavericks. Current stars Luka and Kyrie have a similar play style and position, and with none of the three being considered great defenders, they may become a liability on one end of the floor. However, their offensive capabilities would be nearly unguardable. With the modern NBA adopting a more positionless style of basketball, such a move is not completely absurd. You can even see the 2022 Champion Golden State Warriors making a similar move by acquiring Chris Paul earlier this summer.

Harden also has a lot of experience in a small-ball lineup. During his prime years as a Rocket, they had several successful seasons, including one with 65 wins and multiple Western Conference Finals appearances. He also spent two seasons alongside other star guards, Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul, so he has proven capable of playing alongside guards. Additionally, he spent some time on the Brooklyn Nets with Kyrie Irving. Although injuries and controversies kept them off the court in games, they spent a lot of time in training and off-court together.

I think what it comes down to, in the end, is the coach's game plan. The Beard is not necessarily, on paper, what the Mavericks need, but if they plan to play a small-ball, heavy 3-point-based offense similar to the one that led the Rockets one game away from the 2018 NBA Finals, then Harden is undoubtedly a huge asset for the Mavericks to obtain. As things stand, the Clippers are currently the odds-on favorites to land a James Harden trade, but don't count Dallas out of the running just yet.

Credits
Si.com