According to The Charlotte Observer, the Dallas Mavericks are seen as the team that’s the biggest threat to lure Kemba Walker away from the Hornets.

Two sources with knowledge of the Mavericks’ thinking expect Walker, the Hornets’ three-time All-Star point guard, to be that team’s top target when NBA free-agency begins July 1. Although the Mavericks are only 27-39 this season — second-worst record in the Western Conference — they will have both the salary-cap flexibility to offer a free agent a maximum contract this summer and an appealing future to pitch with abundant young talent on the roster. This summer, Walker becomes an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his eight-season NBA career.

The 3x All-Star has said Charlotte has become home and that he’d like to finish the job of making the Hornets a winning franchise. He has been with the Hornets the entirety of 8-year NBA career.

But as the Hornets fall short of their postseason goals, and Kemba nearing a critical time in his NBA tenure, the urge to win and make more money might supersede his desire to remain in Charlotte.

The Mavericks provide him an opportunity for both.

A “Big 3” of Kemba Walker, Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis would be a lethal combo for the Mavs. 💪🐴#MFFL #Mavs pic.twitter.com/PLhrh2WixQ — Mavs Nation (@MavsNationCP) April 15, 2019

In Dallas, alongside Luka and Porzingis, Kemba Walker and the Mavs would be a lock to make the postseason. As Luka develops and Porzingis heals, their chances of success increase — especially in a conference that is due to get thinned out. The Warriors are on track to lose Durant, the Rockets will get a step slower as their veterans age, and the Thunder continue to face injury concerns with their roster.

It is an ideal scenario for all sides, and it will be intriguing to see what Walker decides as he enters a very important moment of his NBA career.