Damian Lillard Trade: Dallas Mavs Target Portland Trail Blazers' Jrue Holiday Next?

Following his trade to the Portland Trail Blazers with Damian Lillard going to the Milwaukee Bucks, Jrue Holiday could be headed elsewhere, and the Dallas Mavs are in the position to make an offer.

After a wild afternoon saw Damian Lillard finally get his wish in a trade away from the Portland Trail Blazers, the Milwaukee Bucks saw their former championship point guard Jrue Holiday get shipped to Portland as part of the blockbuster three-team deal.

In the wake of that situation, the defensive-specialist guard remains up for grabs after ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Blazers "remain engaged elsewhere" about a potential trade for Holiday. That is an announcement that is sure to bring suitors clamoring due to the two-way ability of the former All-Star.

Enter the Dallas Mavericks … maybe. Despite having a backcourt that is already filled to the brim with All-Stars in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Holiday, who is 33 years old, still has a lot left in the tank and would be a valuable piece — whether that’s in a sixth-man role or starting at the three in a small-ball lineup.

Luka Doncic shoots a 3-pointer over the outstretched arm of Jrue Holiday / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Holiday's defense brings exactly what the Mavs need on the opposite side of the court. With Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving's defensive shortcomings at times, a consistent and talented defender on the perimeter would be a welcomed site despite the Mavs losing some overall size across the board.

Additionally, the addition of Holiday would bring in a veteran presence at the guard that could help the development of Dallas' younger players like Jaden Hardy. Hardy has had his defensive troubles in the past, and Holiday's mentorship on that side of the ball would be a welcome inclusion in the locker room.

A trade for Holiday only brings up one question for the Mavericks. In this situation, the team must decide which of its young players it would be willing to give up for the former Bucks guard. Holiday's $36.8 million deal would require the Mavericks giving up bigger contracts. Tim Hardaway Jr. ($17.8 million) is a prime candidate along with Richaun Holmes and his $12.0 million deal. Would the Mavs give up Josh Green or Hardy in order to make a deal?

That’s hard to say, given that the Mavs have seemingly committed to getting younger and building for the future. But with the assets to make the deal, and the need to find perimeter defense, they are in the prime position to make an offer for Holiday if they desire to do so.