Are the Mavericks looking to deal for a $160 million player?

The Dallas Mavericks are allegedly in talks to add another difference-maker to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Mavericks reportedly “checked in on” Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant’s availability.

Grant is starting the second year of a $160 million contract signed with the Blazers in 2023. Given the team’s rebuilding situation, Grant has become one of the most sought-after trade assets in the league.

The 30-year-old is a dynamic offensive weapon who can spread the floor and even generate his own shots on occasion.

In his first two seasons in Portland, Grant averaged 20.7 points while shooting 46.3% from the field and 40.2% from beyond the arc. In addition, he averaged at least 19 points per game over the last four seasons.

Grant’s 7’2″ wingspan allows him to guard many spots, comparable to Derrick Jones Jr.’s defensive role with the Mavericks this season. Dallas could lose Jones in free agency if they only offer him the $5.2 million taxpayer’s midlevel exception due to their cap problems.

Grant would be a definite upgrade over Jones, but he would most likely cost the Mavericks some assets in any deal. With the Blazers in rebuild mode, a draft pick or two would almost certainly be included.

Since their loss to the Boston Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals, the Mavericks have been quite active in trade talks. Dallas has reportedly put one experienced player on the trade block in an effort to shake up their roster.

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