Why a Clint Capela-for-Christian Wood swap makes sense for Hawks, Mavs

The Dallas Mavericks may not be finished upgrading their roster and could add Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela as a rim protector, per veteran NBA reporter Marc Stein.

If Dallas aims to make a deal, swapping Christian Wood, who played well offensively last season (16.6 PPG) but struggled defensively, for Capela makes sense for both teams. Dallas can bring Wood into the trade conversation via sign-and-trade.

The Mavericks and the Hawks are in a similar position. The Hawks were eliminated in the first-round last postseason, while the Mavs failed to make the playoffs altogether.

The Hawks have a gifted backcourt duo of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. After trading John Collins this offseason, Atlanta could be looking for a consistent third-scoring option. Wood can provide that and more. In addition to scoring efficiently, Wood has the ability to space the floor. He could offer flexibility for Atlanta to play alongside rising center Onyeka Okongwu.

For Dallas, the fit is obvious. 

With Doncic, Irving and shooters like Seth Curry and Grant Williams, the offense is set. Defense is going to be the limiting factor for this team. Capela would raises their defensive ceiling. He is also one of the best rebounders in the game.

Last season, Capela averaged four offensive rebounds per game. Dallas would be a much better team if Doncic and Irving were given second-chance scoring opportunities. Lastly, Capela could be an elite lob threat while playing with Doncic.

That's why a Capela-Wood swap makes sense. Dallas would get the defender it needs. The Hawks would acquire another scoring option behind Young and Murray.