With the Dallas Mavericks sitting at 5–13 and still searching for an identity in the post–Luka Dončić era, a trade scenario from Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey has brought new attention to the franchise’s long-term direction.
Bailey suggested Dallas could explore a deal centered on Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball as a potential path to reshape the roster around Cooper Flagg.
Bailey wrote that the current team “fits Luka far better than it fits Cooper Flagg (or Anthony Davis),” and argued Dallas may need to “get aggressive in trying to rebalance the team.”
With Davis averaging 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in five games before his injury, Bailey noted his skill set remains elite — but may not align with Dallas’ developmental arc.
LaMelo Ball’s Offensive Engine Compared Favorably to Davis
Ball, who is averaging 21.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 9.3 assists in 10 games, was framed as a cleaner long-term fit alongside Flagg due to his playmaking and perimeter shooting.
Bailey emphasized that while Ball “isn’t a perfect fit next to Flagg,” he would provide “more for his (and the rest of the team’s) offense than Davis.” Bailey added that Ball “would set up easy, open looks for Flagg,” and his shooting could “make the middle of the floor a little clearer for Flagg’s slashing.”
The report stressed that Ball would not serve as a Luka Dončić replacement, but he could deliver the passing, creation, and pace Dallas sorely lacks.
Bailey’s hypothetical framework: Anthony Davis for LaMelo Ball, Grant Williams, Liam McNeeley, a top-5 protected 2028 first-round pick, and a lottery-protected 2030 first-round pick.
Charlotte Hornets’ Turbulence Adds Intrigue to Scenario
The Hornets, now 4–13, have faced their own early-season struggles.
Ball recently rejected a Yahoo! Sports report claiming he is open to a trade, calling it “false info” and reiterating, “I love being here.”
Even so, other reporting across the league indicates Charlotte has signaled a willingness to listen to offers for the 23-year-old guard, whose combination of scoring and playmaking continues to draw interest.
Davis remains one of the league’s most monitored trade candidates should Dallas decide to pivot. Marc Stein reported that the Mavericks “intend to field any trade interest” leading up to the deadline, and Shams Charania noted teams are waiting to evaluate Davis’ health once he returns.
ESPN has also described the Mavericks’ shift toward “sustained success and sustained growth” around Flagg and younger talent.
Former Mavericks governor Mark Cuban has pushed back against speculation, telling The Athletic: “We won’t. We want to try to win.”
Bailey’s scenario ultimately highlights the crossroads facing Dallas: pursue immediate competitiveness with Davis, or lean into a timeline that matches Flagg’s ascent. As Davis works toward a return, and Ball continues to produce despite Charlotte’s struggles, the Mavericks’ evaluation window is only beginning.
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