The Dallas Mavericks were just four wins away from clinching their second franchise title. To seize this rare opportunity, they might look to free agency to strengthen their roster. One free agent reportedly on their radar is Tobias Harris.
According to Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes, the Mavericks are among the teams showing interest in the Philadelphia 76ers forward. Haynes detailed what the Mavericks might need to do to acquire Harris.
“Utah, Detroit, San Antonio, Dallas, and New Orleans. For Dallas and New Orleans, these would likely have to be sign-and-trade deals. These teams are expected to show some level of interest in Tobias Harris this summer.”
The 76ers could potentially absorb some of the Mavericks’ contracts, such as those of Tim Hardaway Jr. and Maxi Kleber. However, since both teams share similar championship aspirations, the Sixers might not be interested in those players. A third team might need to be involved for a sign-and-trade to work. Harris is concluding a five-year, $180 million contract.
Tobias Harris Unlikely to Stay with the Sixers: Report
Harris has spent the last five-and-a-half years with the Sixers, who paid him like a superstar. However, he didn’t quite meet those expectations. According to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer, Harris is unlikely to remain with the Sixers.
“Tobias Harris is likely on his way out,” Pompey wrote on April 19. “His tenure with the 76ers is expected to end after their postseason. Several NBA executives think he might join the Detroit Pistons in free agency. But there are multiple teams interested in the 13-year veteran, who has career averages of 16.3 points and 6.2 rebounds.”
Harris has shown he can score efficiently, though not consistently at an All-Star level. He has faced criticism for not living up to his contract, but with a more fitting deal, he might avoid such scrutiny.
With the Mavericks, Harris would likely be the third scoring option behind Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Dallas’ lack of a third option contributed to their NBA Finals loss to the Boston Celtics. Harris could fill that gap.
Jerami Grant Suggested as ‘Dream Fit’ for Mavericks
Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer explained why Jerami Grant would be an appealing trade target.
“Grant is a versatile defender who fits into any switching defense and is a reliable shooter who can also drive and score at the rim. He’s capable of creating off the dribble. Much like Porzingis for Boston, Grant might now want a more balanced role.”
O’Connor elaborated on why Grant would be a “dream fit” for the Mavericks.
“Imagine Grant, with his scoring ability, receiving passes from Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving instead of Maxi Kleber. Grant would thrive with more open looks. His ball-handling skills could also reduce some of the burden on Luka and Kyrie.”
Grant and Harris play similar roles, indicating the Mavericks’ desire for a scoring wing. It doesn’t have to be Grant or Harris specifically, but acquiring such a player could help the Mavericks overcome their recent challenges.
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