The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly open to exploring trades involving Klay Thompson, D’Angelo Russell, and Daniel Gafford, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. The move could signal a significant shakeup as Dallas seeks to improve a struggling 9-16 start to the season.
Thompson, 35, is in the second year of a three-year, $50 million deal, averaging 11.0 points per game over 21 contests. Russell, 29, is in the first year of a two-year, $11.6 million deal, contributing 11.2 points and 4.3 assists per game through three starts. Gafford, 27, plays at center and is in the final year of a $40 million deal, having already signed a $54 million extension starting next season; he averages 8.9 points and 6.4 rebounds across 12 games.
Dallas’ roster also includes Anthony Davis, who is posting 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 10 games. Despite Davis’ production, the Mavericks have struggled in the Western Conference, sitting 11th with a -4.3 point differential. The team has scored 111.8 points per game while allowing 116.1, ranking near the bottom in both categories.
Thompson’s veteran shooting could appeal to playoff contenders seeking perimeter scoring, while Russell offers playmaking depth. Gafford provides a rim-protecting presence that could help teams with defensive gaps. The Mavericks’ willingness to move multiple players indicates a desire to reset their roster around younger talent like Cooper Flagg and Max Christie.
The Western Conference remains competitive, with Oklahoma City leading at 23-1 and the Lakers and Nuggets tied at 17-6. Dallas faces a challenging climb to reach a playoff spot and may view trades as way to reset the roster. Their 9-16 record has left them 14.5 games behind the top-seeded Thunder.
