NBA Trade Rumors: Mavs Simply Exploring, Won't Deal Away Star Center

KEY POINTS

Kristaps Porzingis was rumored to be traded to the Golden State Warriors
Mavs owner Mark Cuban says the Porzingis trade is not happening
Porzingis continues to work on recalling his old form with the Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are struggling, and one reason seen is the inconsistent play of Kristaps Porzingis.

Considering he is coming off an injury, it hardly comes as a surprise. Hence, it makes no sense to immediately conclude that Mavs owner Mark Cuban is contemplating trading the Latvian center.

According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Mavs allegedly kicked tires on a possible trade involving Porzingis. Injuries have hampered his play, and the $158.2 million investment of the Dallas Mavericks is not living up to expectations.

When asked to shed light on the Porzingis trade, Cuban responded to the rumor and said that it was pretty inaccurate.

He also ripped an unnamed executive from the Western Conference, capping it by saying no trade discussions were going on.

"It's not accurate," Cuban stated to Dallas Morning News reporter Brad Townsend. "We have not discussed him in a trade at all. Has not happened."

. @mcuban elaborates, in stronger terms. pic.twitter.com/Oaldstvpba
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) February 23, 2021

Most know what the 25-year-old is capable of doing. Along with Luka Doncic, the 7-foot-3 form a lethal 1-2 punch if both are healthy.

The No. 4 overall pick of the 2015 NBA Draft is in the second year of his five-year deal with the Mavs, and it would be surprising if Cuban and the Mavs give up on his this early.

Seeing Kristaps Porzingis in a Golden State Warriors’ uniform makes sense. The center spot is a position that head coach Steve Kerr would love to fill.

Rookie James Wiseman has been holding up, but there is a pretty big disparity compared to what the Latvian brings.

Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks Getty Images | Kevin C. Cox

An NBA trade at this point makes no sense. It would take much to match the financial package that Porzingis has, and the Dubs' best chance is perhaps one of their big three plus other assets.

For now, it makes little sense unless the Mavs are serious. If so, it may need a conduit team to materialize.

Regardless, this possibility is shelved for now. Cuban has set the record straight and likely wants to wait a little bit more.

The Mavericks may be struggling, but there is still time for Porzingis to recall his old form and get back into the NBA groove.