Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Toronto Raptors
Mavericks Eye Raptors’ Kelly Olynyk in Potential Trade Deadline Move
The Dallas Mavericks could be looking to bolster their frontcourt depth ahead of the trade deadline, and Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley has floated an intriguing idea involving Toronto Raptors big man Kelly Olynyk. In his latest piece on potential NBA trades, Buckley proposed a deal that would send Olynyk to Dallas in exchange for forward Maxi Kleber, guard Jaden Hardy, and a second-round pick.
With rookie center Dereck Lively II sidelined until at least the playoffs, the Mavericks find themselves in need of a reliable rotational big. Olynyk, averaging 7.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists on an efficient 51% shooting from the field and an impressive 49% from beyond the arc, could provide Dallas with a versatile frontcourt presence capable of contributing immediately.
A Logical Addition to the Rotation
While Olynyk’s numbers aren’t overwhelming, his value lies in his ability to provide stability and floor-spacing off the bench. The Mavericks are unlikely to pursue blockbuster trades before the deadline, as they believe their current roster is capable of making a strong postseason push. However, adding a veteran big like Olynyk could ease the workload on Daniel Gafford, who is currently carrying the majority of the minutes at center.
Dallas currently sits at 26-22, holding the 8-seed in the Western Conference. Trading for Olynyk wouldn’t dramatically shift the team’s trajectory, but it would allow them to move off Kleber’s contract while adding a capable 12-15 minute-per-game contributor. The biggest hurdle might be including Jaden Hardy in the deal, as the young guard remains a valuable asset with long-term upside.
A Full-Circle Moment for Olynyk?
Interestingly, Olynyk was originally drafted by the Mavericks in 2013 before being traded to the Boston Celtics on draft night. If this deal were to come to fruition, it would mark a homecoming of sorts for the veteran big man.
While it remains to be seen whether Dallas will make a move before the trade deadline, Olynyk’s skill set and experience could make him a logical addition as the team gears up for a playoff push. Whether or not the Mavericks are willing to part with Hardy to make it happen is another question entirely.
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