The Dallas Mavericks have had a glorious few months. During the NBA playoffs, they found their groove as a defensive team, led on offense by Luka Dončić. They used that formula to great success, making their first Finals appearance in 13 years. Even though they lost, the future seems bright for a relatively young team.
However, rather than standing pat, Dallas made some savvy moves to further bolster the roster and address its needs. While it remains to be seen how successful they will be, there is enough pie in the pudding for fans to be optimistic about their chances.
However, in a league as competitive as the NBA, every team can always get better. Whether it is major moves for loitering teams or around-the-edges moves for contenders, stagnation is never the answer.
So, while the Mavericks walk into next season with a deep roster that fits together well, they could look into improving it down the line.
When that comes to pass, which players make the most sense for a repeat trip to the NBA Finals?
Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers
Jerami Grant would be an ideal name to take over the starting power forward spot. While PJ Washington had an extraordinary series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, his consistency remains a question mark.
On the other hand, Grant is a much more proven commodity. Not only is he a lock for 20 points per game, but he’s a much more efficient shooter than Washington.
Simultaneously, his defense would arguably make him the best defender on the team. Even though an increase in offensive responsibility has taken away from his defense, he should flourish on a team like Dallas.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Dallas Mavericks Updates
With Luka and Kyrie on the team, Jerami might have the best looks of his career. His offensive efficiency, along with defensive versatility would make him a perfect fit for the Mavericks.
Dorian Finney-Smith, Brooklyn Nets
Here is a reunion Dallas should definitely go after. Dorian Finney-Smith built a name for himself with the Mavericks. As a 3-and-D wing, his year-on-year improvement has made him a legitimate starter on any roster.
However, for a Brooklyn Nets team on the rebuild, he is an inevitable trade piece. The Mavericks could use a big body for their starting 3 slot. Smith, with his familiarity, could slot in effortlessly.
Not only would he bring A+ defense night in and night out, but he can also stretch the floor. A consistent 40% shooter from distance, DFS has the reliability Dallas was missing in the Finals.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dorian Finney-Smith, Brooklyn Nets, Dallas Mavericks Updates
With a ton of playoff experience under his belt, Do would be one of the better options for the Mavericks.
Malik Beasley, Detroit Pistons
The case for Malik Beasley is a little different but equally essential. During the NBA Finals, one of the biggest weaknesses for the Mavericks was their three-point shooting.
Throughout the series, their shooters were more miss than hit, creating too large a gap. So, finding consistent knockdown shooters is paramount for the Mavs. That is where Beasley steps in.
For the entirety of his career, Malik has been a catch-and-shoot specialist. He would occupy a similar role for Dallas after a career year with the Milwaukee Bucks.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Malik Beasley, Detroit Pistons, Dallas Mavericks Updates
Shooting a career-high 42% from 3-point territory, he also was playing the best defense of his career. At $6 million, it is a relatively risk-free investment for Dallas to make. And one that could net some sweet results.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
Local News
Comments / 0