The Dallas Mavericks are off to a strong start in the 2024-25 season, sitting at the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference with a 16-9 record. However, they’ve suffered some close losses, with seven of their nine defeats coming by single digits. Despite the presence of Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, the team could still use additional help, particularly on the perimeter, to boost their championship aspirations.
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans, who had high hopes for a title push after adding Dejounte Murray in the offseason, have been derailed by injuries. With a disappointing 5-20 record, the Pelicans are now positioned at the bottom of the West and are likely to shift their focus toward rebuilding. This has led many to speculate that the team could look to move key players in exchange for assets to retool for the future.

One player drawing significant interest is Herb Jones, who could be an ideal addition to the Mavericks’ roster. The defensive standout and 2024 All-Defensive First-Team selection would be the perfect “3-and-D” option for Dallas. This trade proposal would send Jones, along with Daniel Theis, to the Mavericks in exchange for Daniel Gafford, Olivier Maxence-Prosper, and two future draft picks—one of which is a 2025 second-round pick and a 2031 first-round pick. The trade would see the Mavericks lose Gafford, a reliable center, and a distant draft pick, but Jones’ defensive abilities could be worth the cost.
Adding Jones would address a critical need for the Mavericks: point-of-attack defense. While the team has a solid core, they’ve struggled to defend opposing stars on the perimeter. Jones is capable of guarding some of the league’s best players, making him an immediate upgrade to the Mavericks’ defense. His versatility would also provide Dallas with more flexibility on both ends of the floor. If acquired, Jones could become a starting small forward, potentially pushing Klay Thompson to a bench role and strengthening the overall lineup.
For the Pelicans, trading Jones would provide an opportunity to gather valuable assets as they look to retool for the future. With injury concerns surrounding Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, New Orleans may need to make tough decisions to reshape the roster. Gafford, a 26-year-old center, could be an ideal fit for the Pelicans’ needs in the middle. Along with the draft picks, this trade would give the Pelicans the flexibility to build around Dejounte Murray and other emerging players like Olivier Maxence-Prosper, who shows promise as a future contributor.
For the Mavericks, acquiring Jones would solidify their championship push. A starting five featuring Luka, Kyrie, Jones, PJ Washington, and Dereck Lively would give the team a well-rounded, two-way unit capable of competing at the highest level. Jones’ defensive prowess would elevate the Mavs’ already top-10 defense, while his shooting would provide a much-needed upgrade on the wing. With Jones on a manageable contract through 2027, the Mavericks would have a long-term piece to complement their star duo of Doncic and Irving. Instead of chasing another high-profile star, this move could prove to be the perfect addition to a team already in strong contention for a title.