NBA Trade: Hornets, Mavericks link up for second year in a row

Hornets and Mavericks Make Another Deal for the Second Year in a Row

The Charlotte Hornets should consider reaching out to the Dallas Mavericks once again.

Last season, the two teams executed a significant trade where the Hornets sent PJ Washington and two second-round picks (including one in 2028) to the Mavericks in exchange for Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and a 2027 first-round pick. They also acquired Josh Green in a six-team deal. This year, a similar collaboration could happen.

Mock Trade Between the Hornets and Mavericks

With Nick Richards no longer on the roster, Cody Martin is now the most valuable trade asset the Hornets have, and he’s a perfect fit for what the Mavericks need. Dallas is looking for wing depth with Luka Doncic currently sidelined, and Martin provides a defensive boost, capable of guarding multiple positions.

This mirrors last year’s deal for PJ Washington, but Martin, primarily a backcourt defender, offers a different dynamic. The trade logic remains the same, and both teams could once again exchange players and picks.

In this mock trade, the Hornets send Martin along with three second-round picks (from Denver in 2026, Phoenix in 2031, and a 2031 pick) to the Mavericks in exchange for Quentin Grimes, Dwight Powell, and a 2030 first-round pick. This deal benefits both teams.

The Mavericks gain frontcourt depth and defense without disrupting Luka Doncic’s return, plus they acquire three second-round picks, which they currently lack. Dallas only has two tradeable second-round picks.

For the Hornets, they receive an expiring contract in Grimes, who can offer shooting guard depth with Brandon Miller out indefinitely. Powell has a $4 million player option next season, and could be flipped for additional assets or retained as a cost-effective veteran big man. However, the real value for Charlotte lies in the 2030 first-round pick, as the team is in desperate need of future assets.

Dallas improves its frontcourt depth and perimeter defense, which is crucial given the defensive struggles of Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, both of whom have defensive ratings above 109. Meanwhile, the Hornets acquire more assets and potential trade or buyout candidates. At 24, Grimes could be auditioned as a long-term piece for Charlotte’s roster.