The Dallas Mavericks recently made it to the NBA Finals and are now strategizing on how to not only return but also secure the championship. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving will remain the key players for the Mavericks, but additional support is needed after being outmatched by the Boston Celtics. One potential trade target this offseason could be Jerami Grant.
According to Ian Begley of SNY, Dallas is among “several teams” that have “inquired about Grant’s status in Portland.” Grant has just completed his second season with the Portland Trail Blazers and has four years remaining on his contract after signing a five-year, $160 million deal last summer.
### Jerami Grant’s Situation with the Blazers
Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) shoots over Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant (9) during the first quarter at the American Airlines Center.
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports.
Jerami Grant signed a long-term deal with the Portland Trail Blazers before Damian Lillard requested a trade. Grant had a solid season, averaging 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, shooting 45.1% from the field and 40.2% from three-point range. However, the 30-year-old played only 54 games and missed the last month of the season.
The Blazers finished the season with a 21-61 record, the worst in the Western Conference, and ended up with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft after falling from their initial No. 4 slot. With Portland in a rebuilding phase, general manager Joe Cronin might consider trading Grant while his value is high due to the lengthy control left on his contract. Conversely, there’s no urgent need to trade him, and the Blazers could aim to become competitive again with Grant’s help, requiring a substantial offer to make a deal.
### What the Mavericks Have to Offer
The Mavericks are reportedly looking to trade Tim Hardaway Jr. this summer. Hardaway is set to earn over $16 million in the final year of his contract in 2024-25, providing a good salary match for a potential trade. Josh Green, who is making over $12 million next season, could be a valuable trade asset. PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, key players in the Mavericks’ NBA Finals run, are unlikely to be moved unless for a significant star upgrade. Maxi Kleber, with his $11 million salary, is another trade candidate.
Dallas also has future draft picks available for trade, including 2025 and 2031 first-round picks, which can be moved on the night of the 2024 draft. They owe first-round picks this year, in 2027, and 2029, with swaps owed in 2028 and 2030. The Mavericks can swap firsts in 2025, 2026, and 2031 and have four second-round picks available as well.
### Grant’s Fit on the Mavericks
The Mavericks achieved considerable success with their new roster after the trade deadline, with PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford contributing significantly. Derrick Jones Jr. found his place in the starting lineup and is a priority in free agency.
While Washington and Jones played crucial roles, Grant would be an upgrade as a versatile two-way player who excels in shooting from deep. Playing alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving would make Grant even more effective, allowing him to focus more on defense. Acquiring Grant could also allow Dallas to bring either Washington or Jones off the bench, assuming both return, enhancing their depth. Whether the Blazers are willing to trade Grant remains uncertain, but it’s a prospect worth exploring for Dallas.
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