As the Dallas Mavericks’ offseason unfolds, it’s clear this period has been one of the best in franchise history. Even if their move to sign-and-trade for Klay Thompson doesn’t pan out as hoped, the Mavericks have firmly established themselves as a new hotspot for prospective free agents. The culture within their front office has undergone a complete transformation from a few years ago.
The Mavericks have built a championship-level organization across all facets, making them a much more attractive destination with President of Basketball Operations Nico Harrison at the helm. High-profile free agents are no longer just a dream for Dallas, especially with Kyrie Irving and others actively recruiting players to join the team.
Despite most of Dallas’ free agency signings being completed, rumors have circulated about the Mavericks potentially adding another ball handler or point-of-attack defender to fill the final roster spot. With both Josh Green and Tim Hardaway Jr. traded this offseason, there is a noticeable gap in their bench’s two-guard position.
Mavericks Miss Perfect Chance to Sign Russell Westbrook
While Dallas could look internally to address this issue, adding a rotation-caliber defender who can also handle the ball could be the final piece needed to propel this team back to the NBA Finals. The Mavericks were rumored to be considering various targets fitting this profile, but they let one slip away to a top Western Conference contender, as it appears Russell Westbrook will sign with the Denver Nuggets after being bought out by the Utah Jazz.
To be clear, the Mavericks were never explicitly mentioned as a suitor for Westbrook once he was traded from the LA Clippers to the Jazz and subsequently bought out. However, his energy off the bench could have been invaluable for Dallas.
The Mavericks were interested in adding backcourt depth, and Westbrook would have been a solid addition. Fans might question how Westbrook could have helped the team, given his subpar shooting performance in the first round of the Playoffs against Dallas this past spring. However, the 35-year-old guard remains a great athlete capable of setting up offensive actions and bringing contagious defensive energy.
In the right role, Westbrook would have thrived for the Mavericks off the bench. He remains an elite driver and transition finisher, capable of alleviating some of the playmaking burden from Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic. Although his shooting has declined in recent seasons, Westbrook could have contributed significantly in other areas, even if there are likely better candidates to fulfill Dallas’ need for another playmaker and perimeter defender.
The Mavericks still have time to address this need before the start of next season. While it’s not an immediate crisis given their successful offseason, it could be the difference between making another Finals run in a stacked Western Conference.
For all the latest updates on the Dallas Mavericks throughout the rest of the offseason, stay tuned.
Leave a Reply