NBA Trade Rumors: Teams That Should Trade For Brook Lopez

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Jan 29, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Zaza Pachulia (27) guards Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeat the Nets 91-79. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks have one of the better defensive players in the NBA in starting center Andrew Bogut. His presence as a rim protector was instrumental to the Golden State Warriors’ success in 2014-15 and 2015-16.

The Mavericks don’t necessarily need this trade, but Lopez is locked up through 2018 and would provide an invaluable offensive balance in the post.

Dirk Nowitzki is 38 years old and rapidly approaching the end of his Hall of Fame career. By trading for Lopez, owner Mark Cuban would be giving his franchise player a slightly better shot at making another deep postseason run.

Bogut’s defense would be missed, but Lopez is an outstanding shot-blocker with vast offensive superiority—a combination that Rick Carlisle can utilize well enough to help build a 50-win team.

For Brooklyn, the appeal in doing this trade would be Bogut’s expiring contract and the potential to land a first-round draft pick. Lopez is due $22,642,350 in 2017-18, and while he may be a high-quality player, Brooklyn needs cap space.

If the Nets could somehow convince the Mavericks to give up Bogut’s expiring contract, Dwight Powell, and a first-rounder, this would be a win for both sides.