NBA Trade Rumors: Dallas Mavericks expected to pursue trade for Andre Iguodala
What's the rumor?
The Memphis Grizzlies are currently attempting to offload the final-year of Andre Iguodala's contract, and the team is adamant that the veteran won't be offered a buyout. In regards to a possible trade destination, ESPN's Brian Windhorst is reporting that league executives believe the Dallas Mavericks could make a move in the coming weeks:
"One place is shaping up as a possibility as you talk to executives out there. Executives believe that the Mavericks are a team to watch when it comes to the Andre Iguodala landing spot. If the Mavericks get serious about this and they want to boost themselves on the defensive end that's a place they can go."
In case you didn't know...
Iguodala played a key role on a Golden State Warriors team that made five straight trips to the NBA Finals between 2015 and 2019, although the 35-year-old was traded to the Grizzlies during the offseason as the Warriors cleared the necessary cap space to complete a sign-and-trade for D'Angelo Russell.
Also read: NBA Rumors: Andre Iguodala is unlikely to join the Los Angeles Lakers
The former Sixers man has struggled with injuries over the past two years, although he returned to form during the 2019 playoffs as he averaged 9.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists over 21 appearances.
The heart of the matter
The Mavericks currently possess one of the best offenses in the NBA, although defense has been a problem, and they are currently allowing 110.2 points per game. As an elite defender, Iguodala would bring balance to the team, while also providing the Mavs with someone who could potentially guard superstars such as LeBron James in the postseason.
What's next?
The Mavericks will be looking to bounce back from Tuesday's disappointing defeat to the LA Clippers when they face the Phoenix Suns on Friday night.
Also read: NBA Power Rankings Week 6: Los Angeles Lakers continue to dominate as the Dallas Mavericks make their move