In a significant move that could reshape the rosters of both teams, the Dallas Mavericks are reportedly in discussions to trade guard Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Quentin Grimes. This potential trade, first reported by NBA insider Marc Stein, comes as the Mavericks look to reconfigure their lineup following their loss in the NBA Finals to the Boston Celtics.
Tim Hardaway Jr. has been a key player for the Mavericks, finishing the season as the team’s third-leading scorer. He averaged 14.4 points per game, shooting 40.2% from the field and 35.3% from beyond the arc. Despite these solid numbers, Hardaway’s role diminished during the playoffs, leading to speculation about his future with the team.
Hardaway is currently in the final year of a four-year contract he signed with the Mavericks before the 2021-2022 season, with a cap hit of just over $16 million. Trading him would free up significant cap space for the Mavericks, allowing them to pursue other free agents to bolster their squad. This move is seen as a strategic salary dump to create financial flexibility for the team.
Marc Stein reported that the trade is still in the works, with the framework being developed. However, one potential scenario involves Quentin Grimes heading to Dallas. Grimes, who began his NBA career with the New York Knicks, joined the Pistons this past season. He has averaged 7.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game in his career. Grimes played college basketball for the Kansas Jayhawks and the Houston Cougars.
If the trade goes through, it would be a homecoming of sorts for both players. Hardaway, who played college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines, would return to the Great Lakes State with the Pistons. Grimes, born in Houston, would find himself back in Texas, just a few hours north in Dallas.
The potential trade has gained traction, with both teams actively discussing the details. For the Mavericks, this move is part of a broader strategy to re-sign Derrick Jones Jr., who excelled on a minimum contract this season. Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison has labeled re-signing Jones as a top priority for the offseason.
Jones played a crucial role for the Mavericks during the 2023-2024 season, appearing in every playoff game and starting in each one. He averaged 9.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, all career highs. His performance has made him a valuable asset, and the Mavericks are keen to retain him. Trading Hardaway would open up the $12.9 million mid-level exception, which could be used to re-sign Jones.
For the Pistons, acquiring Hardaway would add a veteran presence to their young roster. Hardaway’s experience and scoring ability could provide a significant boost to the team. On the other hand, Grimes, who was acquired by the Pistons at the trade deadline, has seen limited playing time and could be considered expendable under the new management and coaching staff.
The Mavericks have been exploring trade options for Hardaway for some time. His tenure with the team has been marked by ups and downs, including an injury that kept him out of the 2022 playoffs and a reduced role in the 2024 playoffs. Moving Hardaway’s contract would not only provide financial relief but also allow the Mavericks to focus on players who have shown more consistent performance.
As the Mavericks prepare for the 2024 NBA Draft, they hold the 58th overall pick, the last pick in the draft. While it’s unlikely they will find an impact player with this pick, the team is also rumored to be interested in other prospects, including Bronny James, son of LeBron James. However, their primary focus remains on reshaping their current roster through strategic trades and signings.
The potential trade between the Mavericks and Pistons highlights the ongoing efforts by both teams to improve their rosters and build for the future. As discussions continue, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this trade unfolds and what impact it will have on both teams in the upcoming season.
Source: Marc Stein, Heavy.com
