UPDATE: Dallas Mavericks show trade interest in promising Hornets forward

As the Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors have engaged in serious trade talks centered around Pascal Siakam, the Dallas Mavericks may not have the assets to make a trade for him.

This may discourage fans, as adding Siakam to this team could have made them NBA Finals contenders, but their recently reported trade interest in a different player from the Eastern Conference could be the better option anyway.

According to a report by Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Mavericks have shown interest in trading for Charlotte Hornets forward P.J. Washington.

Rumors: Dallas Mavericks show trade interest in promising Hornets forward

He was someone who many Mavs fans wanted them to make a sign-and-trade for over the summer as he was a restricted free agent, but Dallas reportedly never showed interest in him.

It has been reported for weeks that Dallas wants to upgrade at the power forward position, and Washington could be the perfect fit next to Dereck Lively II and to start with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

This season for the Hornets, Washington is averaging 12.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game while shooting 42.2 percent from the field and 31.0 percent from 3-point range.

Washington’s scoring numbers and efficiency have dipped this season, but that could give the Mavs the perfect opportunity to make a trade for him. They can strike when his value is a bit lower, and maybe they could get away without having to give up a first-round pick.

Washington would be a good fit in Dallas due to his defensive versatility, ability to shoot off the catch, and his upside. He is only 25 years old and is a great piece for now but also for the future. His ability to play power forward and small ball center would be perfect, and the Mavs could have a building block for the future in Washington if they trade for him.

NBA Trade Rumors: Top Five Landing Spots for Pascal Siakam - Sports Illustrated