Dallas Mavericks: Why they should get in on the James Harden sweepstakes

Conclusions

Intriguing fit aside, Harden and Doncic won’t be paired together in Dallas if Houston doesn’t receive an offer they like. One way Dallas could improve its chances at getting Harden is by showing a willingness to take on Eric Gordon’s contract. The 2016-17 Sixth Man of the Year is owed at least $54 million over the next three years and his numbers have dipped for the second straight year.

Since Tilma Fertitta bought the franchise, the Rockets have been very thrifty with their contracts to avoid paying the luxury tax. Dumping the long-term money owed to the soon to be 32-year-old Gordon would alleviate some worries about crossing the luxury tax threshold. Gordon is a decent scorer, so it’s not like Dallas is taking on a contract with absolutely no value.

The lack of stellar assets Dallas is willing to part with is the ultimate obstacle to clear, and it could be a very difficult one. But if the Mavericks can do it, they should acquire Harden. Simply put: a backcourt with two lethal scorers that flaunt playmaking wizardry is a recipe for success. The Mavericks already have one, and they should pursue the one that’s on the market.

Doncic, with his step-back triples and flashy passes, has often been compared to a young Harden. Having the master and the apprentice in the same backcourt would be nightmare fuel for every opposing defense. Pairing them is an opportunity that Dallas should undoubtedly look to seize upon.