For years, the Dallas Mavericks have been looking for an excuse to play Jaden Hardy in a meaningful role; now they have that chance. It didn't take long for the Mavericks to realize that competing at the top of the Western Conference might be impossible, and while that doesn't officially mean the team should be pro-tanking, Dallas should now take chances with younger players, including Hardy, who has yet to unleash his full potential.
It's safe to say that Hardy's current role with the Mavericks is one where they seem to expect the youngster to be traded at the deadline, and while historically he hasn't played up to the expectations of a rotation-worthy guard, the Mavericks should play Hardy in the chance that his trade stock rises.