The Dallas Mavericks fought hard but they simply did not have enough to win the 2023-24 NBA championship against the Boston Celtics. It was a more than impressive season for the Mavericks and even Luka Doncic has to admit this year has to be considered a success. The Slovenian had an impressive Finals debut by posting 29.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game but he did not get enough help.
Kyrie Irving struggled in the Finals by posting 19.8 points per game on 41.4% from the field and 27.6% from three, but he still has high hopes that the Mavericks can come back next year to win it all. While it might be possible with the team as currently constructed, the Mavericks will need to retool their roster this summer with a few key steps to give Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving the right pieces.
Re-Sign Derrick Jones Jr.
Re-signing Derrick Jones Jr. should be a priority for the Dallas Mavericks as they look to solidify their roster for a title run in the 2024-25 season. Jones Jr. had a standout season despite only earning $2,709,849, demonstrating his value on both ends of the court. Averaging 8.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while shooting 34.3% from beyond the arc, he provided crucial contributions as a versatile forward.
His performance in the playoffs was even more impressive, with averages of 9.0 points and 3.6 rebounds per game on 37.7% shooting from three-point range. Jones Jr.’s athleticism and ability to connect with Luka Doncic in pick-and-roll situations made him an excellent lob partner and an integral part of the Mavericks’ offensive schemes. At 27 years old, he still has room to grow, particularly in improving his three-point shooting.
Jones Jr. can be retained on a team-friendly deal for two or three years, offering the Mavericks a cost-effective solution to maintain their depth and athleticism off the bench. His high-flying dunks and competitive edge provide a spark that energizes the team, both in regular season games and high-stakes playoff matchups.Â
Land Mikal Bridges In A Blockbuster Trade
The next step is to engage in a blockbuster trade for budding All-Star swingman Mikal Bridges who fits the Dallas Mavericks’ mold as an elite defender and shot-maker from the perimeter.
Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Mikal Bridges
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Tim Hardaway Jr., Jaden Hardy, Josh Green, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, 2025 First-Round Pick Swap
Acquiring Mikal Bridges in a blockbuster trade would be a game-changer for the Dallas Mavericks, transforming them into serious title contenders. Bridges’ reputation as an elite defender and an excellent scorer perfectly fits the Mavericks’ needs. This past season, he averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 37.2% from three-point range.
His versatility on both ends of the court is invaluable; he made the 2021-22 All-Defensive First Team and finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting that same season. With his ability to guard multiple positions, Bridges would instantly upgrade the Mavericks’ defense, providing the team with a lockdown perimeter defender who can take on the toughest assignments night in and night out.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Bridges brings significant offensive capabilities to the Mavericks. His scoring ability and efficient shooting make him an ideal third option behind Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Bridges excels as a spot-up shooter, which complements Doncic’s playmaking and Irving’s scoring perfectly.
Furthermore, his ability to run the floor and finish on the fast break adds another dimension to the Mavericks’ offensive attack. Bridges’ experience with the Phoenix Suns, where he played a crucial role in their run to the 2021 NBA Finals, demonstrates his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and his readiness to contribute to a championship-caliber team. By replicating his role from Phoenix, he can seamlessly integrate into the Mavericks’ system and provide the team with consistent and reliable production.
Although losing four bench players and a 2025 first-round pick swap may be a tough pill to swallow, the acquisition of Bridges would form a formidable new Big Three alongside Doncic and Irving. The long-term benefits of adding a player of the 27-year-old’s caliber far outweigh the immediate cost, positioning the Mavericks as one of the top contenders in the Western Conference for years to come.
Succeed In The Free Agent Market
To ensure success in the free agent market, the Dallas Mavericks need to strategically target veterans and utilize their mid-level exception to bolster their bench with experienced, versatile players. A crucial addition would be Kyle Lowry, who brings championship experience, leadership, and the ability to knock down three-pointers. Signing Lowry to a veteran minimum deal ($3,313,453) would provide the Mavericks with a reliable backup point guard capable of contributing immediately. This past season, at 38 years old, Lowry averaged 8.1 points and 4.2 assists per game on 39.2% from three.
Another key veteran addition could be Gordon Hayward, who, despite recent injury struggles, still possesses the skills to be an impactful swingman. Hayward’s ability to pass, score, and play multiple positions fits perfectly with the Mavericks’ system as he averaged 9.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game on 41.1% from three. Signing him to a veteran minimum deal (($3,313,453) would be a low-risk, high-reward move.
Utilizing the mid-level exception, the Mavericks should target Lonnie Walker IV (9.8 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 38.5% 3-PT FG). Walker’s ability to space the floor, attack the rim, and provide instant offense makes him an ideal sixth man for Dallas. His athleticism and scoring prowess would add a new dimension to the Mavericks’ bench, giving them a reliable scorer who can create his own shot and stretch the defense.
Other intriguing options include Spencer Dinwiddie, who has previous chemistry with Luka Doncic and can provide scoring and playmaking off the bench, as well as Royce O’Neale (7.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG on 37.0% 3-PT FG) or Cedi Osman (6.8 PPG, 2.5 RPG on 38.9% 3-PT FG), both of whom are above-average shooters and capable defenders with size. These additions would significantly enhance the Mavericks’ bench, providing the necessary experience, shooting, and defense to support their star players in a deep playoff run.
The Dallas Mavericks Become Legitimate Title-Favorites In 2024-25
By re-signing Derrick Jones Jr, trading for Mikal Bridges, and succeeding in the free agent market, the Dallas Mavericks can become one of the best teams in the NBA in 2024-25 with a chance to realistically win the NBA championship.
Starters: Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Mikal Bridges, P.J. Washington, Dereck Lively II
Bench: Kyle Lowry, Lonnie Walker IV, Gordon Hayward, Derrick Jones Jr, Daniel Gafford
With the strategic moves of re-signing Derrick Jones Jr., trading for Mikal Bridges, and securing key free agents, the Dallas Mavericks position themselves as legitimate title favorites for the 2024-25 NBA season. The superstar power of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, already a formidable duo, is significantly bolstered by the addition of Bridges, forming a new Big Three that can compete with any team in the league.
Doncic’s elite playmaking and scoring ability, combined with Irving’s offensive explosiveness and clutch performance, create an unstoppable backcourt. Bridges adds a crucial defensive presence and consistent scoring threat, making the Mavericks a well-rounded and dynamic team.
P.J. Washington stepping into a larger role and Dereck Lively II’s expected improvement after his All-Rookie campaign further solidifies the starting lineup. Washington’s versatility and scoring ability provide additional offensive firepower and defensive flexibility. Lively II’s development into a reliable rim protector and rebounder enhances the Mavericks’ interior defense and gives them a formidable presence in the paint. This balanced starting lineup ensures that the Mavericks have the necessary components to excel on both ends of the court, making them a tough matchup for any opponent.
The Mavericks’ bench, packed with veterans and win-now players, provides the depth and experience needed for a deep playoff run. Kyle Lowry, Lonnie Walker IV, and Gordon Hayward bring a wealth of experience, leadership, and scoring ability off the bench. Derrick Jones Jr. and Daniel Gafford, benefiting from continuity and their established roles, are poised to have even better seasons.
Jones Jr.’s athleticism and defensive tenacity, along with Gafford’s shot-blocking and rebounding, give the Mavericks a strong second unit capable of maintaining intensity and productivity when the starters rest. This combination of superstar talent, a well-rounded starting lineup, and a deep, experienced bench positions the Dallas Mavericks as serious contenders for the NBA championship in the 2024-25 season.
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