The Dallas Mavericks are preparing for an active offseason as they build around Anthony Davis and the anticipated No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. With Kyrie Irving sidelined until at least January due to ACL surgery, the team is prioritizing reinforcement in the backcourt to maintain offensive stability during his absence.
Bleacher Report analyst Grant Hughes identifies the Los Angeles Lakers’ guard Austin Reaves as a potential trade target who could immediately take on a leading role in running the offense. Reaves’ familiarity with Davis and proven scoring ability make him a logical fit for Dallas as they seek to maintain momentum.
Trade dynamics: Mavericks consider Lakers’ Austin Reaves for backcourt boost
In his June 12 report on trade possibilities across the NBA, Grant Hughes argues that Austin Reaves represents the top guard option available for Dallas without forcing the Mavericks to trade their coveted No. 1 overall draft pick. Reaves’ ability to handle the primary ball-handler duties is especially valuable while Kyrie Irving recovers from his injury.
“With Kyrie Irving sidelined by a torn ACL, the Dallas Mavericks need somebody to run the offense,”
Hughes stated.
If they aren’t going to trade the No. 1 overall pick and remain committed to building a win-now operation around Anthony Davis, they’re short on the blue-chip assets it’ll take to get a great one.
“Austin Reaves has never been an All-Star, but he’s on the high end of what Dallas could potentially land,”
he added.
Plus, we know the lines of communication between the Mavs and Los Angeles Lakers are wide open.
Proposed trade details and Lakers frontcourt needs
Hughes suggests the Mavericks could offer a package including their promising sophomore center Dereck Lively II, known for his rim protection and shot-blocking, alongside versatile forward P.J. Washington. This deal would meet the Lakers’ known demand for frontcourt reinforcements after trading away Anthony Davis to Dallas.
“Would L.A. part with Reaves (who’s extension-eligible this summer) for a depth-boosting package built around P.J. Washington and Dereck Lively II?”
Hughes questioned.
The latter certainly established chemistry with Luka Dončić when they played together and would be a battle-tested defensive anchor and lob-catcher the Lakers need.
Reaves is entering his fifth NBA season and is under contract through 2026 with a player option for 2026-27, which he is expected to decline to pursue a lucrative free-agent deal. Thus, Dallas would likely need to offer a significant financial commitment to retain him beyond this season.
Austin Reaves’ impact potential and statistical profile
Reaves averaged solid numbers over 73 games during the 2024-25 season, contributing 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, while shooting efficiently from the field and three-point range. His combination of scoring and playmaking ability could help stabilize the Mavericks’ offense in Irving’s absence and potentially complement Irving when he returns.
Dallas’ young center Dereck Lively II, while not definitively recognized by the Lakers as a top-tier big man, shares traits such as youth, defensive skill, and floor spacing similar to Mavericks’ forward Daniel Gafford. Lively’s chemistry with Dončić and defensive presence add value to the proposed trade package.
Potential benefits and next steps for Mavericks’ roster strategy
Targeting Austin Reaves aligns with Dallas’ goal of securing a reliable guard to manage offensive responsibilities and maximize the team’s win-now window, centered on Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg. The proposed trade could also reunite Luka Dončić with familiar teammates, smoothing team chemistry amid a period of transition.
With ongoing conversations likely between the Mavericks and Lakers, Dallas appears positioned to leverage its expanding assets to negotiate a deal. Acquiring Reaves could provide the crucial backcourt stability Dallas needs both during Kyrie Irving’s rehabilitation and beyond, securing a key piece for the team’s competitive future.