Trading for this 7× NBA All-Star would be the Mavericks' second-worst move in three years

Dallas is attempting to rebound from one of the league’s worst trades, having sent Luka Dončić and acquired Anthony Davis, who played only 29 games before being moved to Washington at the 2026 trade deadline. Now speculation links the Mavericks to Joel Embiid, should GM Mike Gansey decide to pursue a deal around the seven-time All-Star, the 2023 MVP with a recent $192.9 million extension. Embiid’s health history—highlighted by 38 games this season—would complicate any package, which could include Danilo Gallinari? No, actually Dan Gafford, Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington and multiple first-round picks, risking long-term assets for a franchise centerpiece.