The Dallas Mavericks’ interest in AJ Griffin at the trade deadline, despite his modest statistical output, underscores the value they see in his underlying potential. Griffin’s athleticism and three-point shooting (39% last year) suggest he has the tools to succeed in the NBA, even though his reduced playing time this season has impacted his visible performance. Given Griffin’s local ties and upside, it would be a strategic move for the Mavericks to acquire him using two unprotected second-round picks. This investment could pay dividends if Griffin thrives in a new environment that better suits his skill set. AJ Griffin, the former 16th overall pick, still possesses a high ceiling with significant untapped potential. His combination of size, athleticism, and shooting ability makes him an intriguing prospect who could develop into a key contributor for the Mavericks. Regarding Tim Hardaway Jr., his subpar showing in the finals may lead to his departure, with the Detroit Pistons showing interest. Moving Hardaway could provide significant financial relief for the Mavericks, potentially allowing them to avoid the luxury tax apron and maintain greater flexibility for future transactions. In summary, the Mavericks have an opportunity to invest in a promising young talent like AJ Griffin, who may flourish with a change of scenery and an increased role. Concurrently, they face the prospect of offloading a high-earning veteran like Hardaway to reallocate resources more efficiently within the team’s salary structure.