The Dallas Mavericks are considering whether to acquire a key perimeter defender before the February 6 trade deadline, according to Christian Clark of The Athletic.
One player they may target is the Pelicans’ Herbert Jones, a recent All-Defensive First Team selection. However, it’s believed the Pelicans are unlikely to part with Jones despite their current struggles this season.
Mavericks Updates:
Kyrie Irving sat out Monday’s game against Sacramento, with the team citing right shoulder soreness. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that it was primarily a case of load management after Irving played 79 minutes in back-to-back games last week. The Mavericks will continue to monitor his minutes as Luka Doncic recovers from his calf strain.
Irving is expected to play tonight, though Dereck Lively is listed as questionable for the Houston game due to a hip issue, according to Mike Curtis of the Dallas Morning News. Klay Thompson, who missed Monday’s game due to illness, is also available.
Forward P.J. Washington expressed surprise over his one-game suspension for his involvement in a scuffle against Phoenix on Thursday. “I didn’t feel like I tried to do anything maliciously,” Washington said to Curtis. “I just tried to protect my teammate and that was it.” Despite his suspension, he returned with a strong 28-point performance on Monday, although Dallas lost to Sacramento.
