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Mavs pursuing power forward to bolster playoff-ready roster?
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Mavericks are 31-23 and currently sit fifth in the Western Conference. At the moment they are just 1.5 games out from having home court in the NBA playoffs.

Given the injury woes that have plagued this squad, Luka Doncic’s persistent weight issues and just the overall level of competition they face off against regularly – it’s hard not be impressed by what this group has accomplished.

For all the talk about how Jason Kidd would ruin everything, his unorthodox approach seems to be working quite well.

Because of how well Dallas has played thus far, an obvious question has presented itself: what moves will they make ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline?

According to Matt Moore of Action Network, the Mavericks are actively looking to upgrade certain parts of the lineup.

“The Dallas Mavericks were shopping for a center for much of the season, but have shifted in recent days to pursuing a power forward,” he wrote.

“Kristaps Porzingis’ revival this season has made Dallas focus on a stretch four to play next to Porzingis. They’ve re-entered the talks for [John] Collins and have made calls about [Pascal] Siakam.”

That said, there is one player Dallas considers off the table for any prospective deal.

“Similar to Collins with Atlanta last season, the Mavericks looked at the market for Jalen Brunson as he was the best option for an upgrade,” Moore continued.

“However, Dallas’ mindset has changed and they are expected not to trade Brunson and instead to commit to an extension in the offseason.”

Over the past few weeks there has been some chatter regarding a possible deal between the Mavs and New York Knicks, but it is increasingly looking like nothing will martialize.

Beyond that, the Mavs have been connected to two big names. Time will tell what will happen there.

The next few days will be interesting to watch. Dallas is currently a very good team, but not a title contender. One trade could change that, though.

Will the Mavs be able to make that trade? Time will tell.

This article first appeared on Game 7 and was syndicated with permission.

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