NBA Trade News: Dallas Mavericks Trading For Zach Randolph of Memphis Grizzlies
The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly open to make moves before the Feb 20 trade deadline, according to the team's top front office man. And with Memphis Grizzlies All-Star forward Zach Randolph on the trading block, the Mavs could make a gamble and grab the double-double machine.
Despite infusing All-Star caliber talents such Monta Ellis and Jose Calderon, and no to be snubbed the resurging play of franchise player Dirk Nowitzki, the Mavs (24-17) are still fighting for a playoff spot in a very competitive Western Conference race.
Rebounding and interior defense has been the Achilles Heel of the Mavs all season long, as the ball club ranked 28th in rebounding at 40.2 boards per game. They also allowed bunch of the 102 points their opponents scored in the game on the shaded lane.
Mavericks President of Team Operation Donnie Nelson didn't rule out the possibility of acquiring additional help via trade, especially someone who can help the team jack up its rebounding totals per game.
"You never say never, but we do like the team,'' Nelson said to the Fort-Worth Star-Telegram. "With nine new faces we're not looking for reasons to change. But that being said, if an opportunity presents itself that can take us over the top we certainly have to look at it.''
Z-Bo in Big D?
Though he's not 20 and 10 guy anymore, Randolph is averaging 16.4 points and 10.4 rebounds while shooting 44 per cent from the field. However, the fast maturity of young forwards like Quincy Pondexter and Ed Davis has made Z-Bo dispensable. Randolph will become an unrestricted free agent after this season, allowing him to pick a team of his choice.
Grizzlies have made money-saving moves before and they might do it again this season. And with the lure of this summer's free agency period becoming more irresistible, the Grizz could pull off a trade that would send Z-Bo to another team in exchange for draft picks or young talent.
Apparently, the Mavs seem to be a perfect partner for the Grizz in a trade involving Randolph. The Mavs have draft picks and young talents to hammer the deal without compromising their nucleus while the Grizz will gain some salary relief as they lay down the foundation of their future.
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