The New Orleans Pelicans suffered a tight home loss against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday with a final score of 137-136. Trey Murphy III led the way for New Orleans with 32 points, as Murphy, Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray, and CJ McCollum each scored 23+ in a losing effort.

Meanwhile, New Orleans continues to struggle on defense, which has been a problem for the team all season long. The Pelicans rank 28th in defensive rating (117.5) and are dead last in defensive rebounding percentage. New Orleans is allowing opponents to score 117.7 ppg on the year and has allowed 10 straight opponents to score 110+ points.

J-Mac is wagering on the Mavericks to not make the postseason — and no, the play-in doesn't count. Find out why he's fading Dallas in this spot.

"Despite sending a 2024 first to New York as part of the Kristaps Porzingis trade, Dallas is allowed to trade or swap its 2025 first. The Mavericks can also trade a 2031 first. One thing to watch is the Mavericks taking back more salary if a trade were to occur. Dallas is $526,000 below the first apron and is not allowed to exceed it."

Nico Harrison and the Mavs reach the trade deadline in a much different position than in 2024, with Luka Doncic and several players out because of injuries.