The Mavericks decided to make a move quickly to replace center Dwight Powell (torn Achilles) by bringing in Cauley-Stein. While the former is a better scorer, the latter is stronger defensively and is a better rebounder and shot blocker. Cauley-Stein could start for Dallas, who would move Kristaps Porzingis (who played center in Powell's absence) back to his natural power forward position.

The Warriors are obviously rebooting this season after losing Kevin Durant to Brooklyn and Klay Thompson and Steph Curry to injury. Cauley-Stein was not an important piece for Golden State during this transitional period. So, the Warriors acquired a second-round pick in '20 (which originally belonged to Utah) as the return for their starting center. This move helps both squads.

Cauley-Stein moves to a contender, which is good, but may lose some fantasy value in the process (which is bad). Dallas will need him to play solid defense and rebound the ball (for the most part), so his offense could take a hit as a member of the Mavericks. Porzingis should be helped by Cauley-Stein's addition, while Omari Spellman, Marquese Chriss and Kevon Looney may be helped by Cauley-Stein's departure from Golden State. None of the three are recommendable options, however.