The Dallas Mavericks’ offseason began after their NBA Play-In Tournament loss to the Memphis Grizzlies last month. Fan enthusiasm remained low until the team won the NBA Draft Lottery two weeks ago, earning the right to select top prospect Cooper Flagg.
Many fans have expressed skepticism about GM Nico Harrison’s leadership following the controversial Luka Doncic trade, with some even calling for his dismissal by owner Patrick Dumont. While Harrison appears to be staying, new reports offer insight into the team’s offseason strategy especially how they plan to build around Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Flagg.
A key goal for Dallas is finding a temporary starting point guard to replace Irving while he recovers from an ACL tear. One top target has now emerged: Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Mavericks are expected to explore trade scenarios for the veteran guard.
Challenges in Acquiring Jrue Holiday
Holiday’s defensive prowess, playmaking, shooting, and leadership make him an ideal fit in Dallas. However, a trade for him would be complicated. Holiday still has three years and $104 million remaining on his contract. To acquire him, Dallas would likely need to part with valuable role players and draft picks an expensive price, especially since the team will already be over the second tax apron after signing Flagg.
Additionally, Holiday is nearly 35 years old, so bringing him in would age the roster further. Despite his strong fit with head coach Jason Kidd’s system, the Mavs must be cautious—financial restrictions due to the second apron could severely limit their flexibility, just as they experienced with the Caleb Martin trade last season.
Still, Holiday would bring elite perimeter defense, offensive stability, and veteran leadership. His ability to share playmaking duties and defend top opposing guards would make him a seamless partner for Irving when healthy.
Whether or not a trade materializes, Holiday remains a highly appealing target. With expectations high and the fallout from the Doncic trade still fresh, every move Dallas makes this summer will be under close scrutiny.
