Trade & FA 2024-25:

[KillerLeft]

I agree that a Portis level trade isn't necessarily needed/likely, but from a pure talent perspective, getting Portis for Maxi+Hardy (or Exum/Powell) is a no brainer. He's been a top 6-MOY candidate for the last 4 years. He's been a 10ppg stretch big with pretty solid defense. I can see why Nico was interested in him and I can still see the fit now as a backup big.

As much as I want OMax to take that next step, I can't rationally say he's ready for big time minutes on a championship level team. He will get there one day. But if the Mavs are serious about winning, it's time to load up with good vets. Portis qualifies as that AND he's only 29. 

Again, I'm not pining for this trade, but it makes sense.

Not sure it does make sense. For either team, really, given how good Kleber is still when he plays (which has been a lot so far this season) and the hopes the Mavs seem to have for Hardy, but more importantly, what's the carrot for Milwaukee? They're trying to win a championship, too.