NBA Rumors: Mavericks Searching For Third Star To Join Doncic, Porzingis

KEY POINTS

Dallas Mavericks could land Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Bucks fail to seal a new deal
Mavericks could trade up in the coming 2020 NBA Draft
Mavs are open to trading anyone except for Doncic and Porzingis

Like most teams this NBA offseason, the Dallas Mavericks are exploring options. The former NBA champion team is searching for a third superstar to join them, possibly the missing link that Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis need.

A name that surfaced recently is Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. The “Greek Freak” has yet to sign a potential max deal with his current team although that may happen this season.

But until that happens, other clubs are keeping tabs. The Mavericks are no exception.

Joining the Mavs is a possibility if the Bucks fail to lock up the two-time NBA MVP. Strengthening that possibility is that the Greek star is part of a close family bond with Donnie Nelson and Tony Ronzone.

In 2018, the 25-year-old forward also gave high praise for Doncic, branding him as someone who will make an immediate impact and an exciting player, Marca reported. The Slovenian guard did not disappoint and lived up to the hype.

"People in the NBA sometimes forget that in the EuroLeague competition, they play very well and very hard. It's harder than the NCAA," Antetokounmpo said. "You have to be very good to stand out in the EuroLeague, and Luka is."

Antetokounmpo would praise Doncic when their teams collided last August. Doncic had a big night finishing with triple-double numbers.

In the eyes of Antetokounmpo, Doncic made his teammates better.

“Makes his teammates better. Talented. Really talented. One of the most talented players I’ve ever played against,” Antetokounmpo stated.

Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo on Mavericks’ Luka Doncic (36 points, 14 rebounds, 19 assists): “Makes his teammates better. Talented. Really talented. One of the most talented players I’ve ever played against.” pic.twitter.com/AC6nKc42rz
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) August 9, 2020

Hence, the Mavericks are likely to rebuild around Doncic and Porzingis rather than trade either away.

Dallas could be one player short of winning another NBA title but need to figure out who to dangle. No names were mentioned although there is one thing clear – only Doncic and Porzingis are not up for grabs, for now, the Dallas Morning News reported.

As for the 2020 NBA Draft, the Mavericks own the 18th and 31st pick. It will be interesting who Mark Cuban and Rick Carlisle have in mind.

If not Antetokounmpo, they could find yet another star in the mix to join Doncic and Porzingis. As of this writing, no names have been suggested.