NBA Rumors: Mavericks Looking For Big Man To Fill Void Left By Powell

KEY POINTS

Mavericks considering Joakim Noah
Mavs looking for temporary replacement to Dwight Powell
Dallas could check G-League or foreign leagues for backup center

The Dallas Mavericks suffered a huge blow when center Dwight Powell saw an abrupt end to his 2019-20 NBA season due to an Achilles injury. The 28-year-old Canadian suffered the injury in the team's loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Now, the Mavs are looking for the best available big man to fill in the void.

Though there are several names to consider in the NBA trade rumor mill, Dallas has reportedly contacted veteran Joakim Noah for a possible stint. This season, the 34-year-old has often been seen trying out for spots on different teams. He suited up for the Grizzlies last season, playing only 42 games.

According to Tim MacMahon of ESPN, a concern by the Mavs is Noah's ability to stay healthy. The 9th overall pick of the 2007 NBA Draft reportedly suffered an injury last summer but was fully healed by November. Looking at his playing history, the last time played at least 80 games was way back during the 2013-13 NBA season when he was still with the Chicago Bulls. When he left Chicago in 2016, the most he played was 46 games per Basketball-Reference.com.

If Dallas and Noah come to terms, the Mavericks will need to make some roster moves to accommodate the two-time NBA All-Star. As of this writing, no names have been mentioned.

Noah holds career averages of 8.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. With the Grizzlies, he normed just 7.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. Though his production is not that impressive, Noah is one of the players who possess a high basketball IQ. He does the little things to help his team.

It is possible that Noah will remain an option for Dallas. With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, the Mavs could be skimming the market for available big men. Andre Drummond of the Detroit Pistons is being shopped, same with Dewayne Dedmon. However, the Mavs need to do the math to match the salaries of players on their wish list.

Head coach Rick Carlisle could also look at the G-League for candidates. Looking overseas could also help. One player who could fit is Donnie Motiejunas who is currently playing in the Chinese Basketball Association. He could be another option once the CBA season comes to a close.