Dallas Mavericks: 5 moves to make in hopes of playoff contention
By Jordan Daly
3. Trade for Mike Conley
Recently, the Memphis Grizzlies accepted the fact that it is time to rebuild, and placed key veterans Mike Conely and Marc Gasol on the trade block. Conley, a 31-year-old point guard in his 12th season in the league, is exactly what the Mavericks need.
Conley is having the second-best season of his career in terms of scoring. He’s averaging 20.1 points, 6.3 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. His experience, his ability to lead a team and his determination to score the ball would be a huge difference-maker in Dallas. He’s an extremely effective two-way player that the Mavericks would be lucky to have.
With Conley’s contract lasting through the 2020-21 season and J.J. Barea out for the season, he could be a long-term asset the Mavericks should look into trading for. One deal that would work out for both sides is sending Dennis Smith Jr., Wesley Matthews and a 2021 first round pick to Memphis for Mike Conley.
Memphis wants to start a rebuilding phase, so taking on Matthews would be perfect as his contract ends after this season. The Grizz would also receive DSJ to serve as their new franchise point guard, plus an unprotected first-rounder in 2021.