The Dallas Mavericks are entering the trade market with an unusually open stance, making it clear that nearly every player can be discussed – however, two names remain firmly off the table as talks intensify.
Dallas has struggled to find consistency this season, sitting at 13-23 and searching for answers, with postseason hopes fading, the front office is evaluating aggressive options to reset momentum quickly.
According to the Stein Line, the Mavericks are willing to entertain trade conversations involving most of the roster but only Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving are considered completely untouchable at this stage.
That distinction highlights Dallas‘ short- and long-term thinking as the 19-year-old Flagg represents the franchise’s future core, while Irving remains central to any immediate competitive rebound once healthy.
Injuries have played a major role in the team’s uneven campaign with extended absences and fluctuating availability, particularly involving Davis, have left the rotation unsettled and forced younger players into larger roles.
During Irving‘s absence, Flagg has stepped into increased responsibility. His development has been one of the few bright spots, even as the team continues to feel the void left by Irving‘s missing presence.
Irving remains sidelined with a torn ACL, yet his influence has not disappeared and he has stayed active around the team, offering guidance that has resonated inside the locker room.
“Kai is an incredible human being,” Flagg said, per The Dallas Morning News. “He’s looked out for us this whole year & for me, ever since I got here, just been a really good vet for me.
“He’s just a kind-hearted person. That’s a really cool gift & really cool thing to do, and it’s gonna be a lot of fun.
As Dallas weighs potential deals, the organization appears determined to protect leadership and upside. Any move must complement Flagg‘s growth and Irving‘s eventual return to action.
Mavericks reveal what they want if they trade Anthony Davis
If Anthony Davis is moved, Dallas reportedly has a clear priority as the Mavericks are focused on acquiring the New Orleans Pelicans‘ 2026 first-round pick in any serious discussion.
With Davis owed $58.5M next season and holding a $62.7M player option after that, Dallas must balance cap flexibility with upside, all while keeping its two untouchables firmly in place. And per Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, that draft asset has stalled talks with Atlanta, the most aggressive suitor.
“I can tell you with certainty that the Mavericks have been trying to pry away that New Orleans Pelicans pick,” Mannix said to the Open Floor podcast. “That has been on the mind of the Mavericks‘ front office for some time now.”
Beyond Atlanta, teams like Golden State, Toronto, and Detroit have shown interest. League insiders expect Davis to be moved before Feb. 5 as Dallas prepares for a Flagg-centered era.
Marc Stein wrote, “The Hawks are a real-deal suitor for Davis,” while noting Atlanta‘s potential willingness to part with Zaccharie Risacher in the right scenario.
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