Here’s the latest buzz on the Mavericks’ offseason strategy to reinforce their backcourt in Kyrie Irving’s absence:
—
🔄 Mavericks eyeing Dante Exum for return
According to ClutchPoints, Dallas is actively exploring trades to create roster flexibility for bringing back Dante Exum. They may move Olivier-Maxence Prosper to open a 15th contract slot once they land another point guard like D’Angelo Russell .
Sports Illustrated reports the Mavericks have shown interest in re-signing the former lottery pick as they seek additional guard depth .
Exum played 55 games last season for Dallas, averaging 9.1 points and 2.8 assists, though he missed the end of the season with a hand injury .
📌 Why Exum makes sense:
Familiarity: He’s already integrated into Jason Kidd’s system and the locker room.
Versatility: Exum can run point or play off-ball, offering flexibility in rotations.
Experience: He delivered steady production during Irving’s previous absence.
—
🧭 Mavericks’ broader strategy: Targeting multiple guards
D’Angelo Russell
Dallas is “overwhelming favorite” to sign Russell as the primary point guard while Irving rehabs, likely via mid-level exception worth ~$12 million over two years .
Trade market targets
Beyond signing, Dallas is exploring the trade market for veteran guards:
Jrue Holiday, Lonzo Ball, Chris Paul – these names have been linked to Dallas .
Though costly, each bloc offers distinct skills: Holiday’s defense, Ball’s playmaking, Paul’s leadership.
Free agency options
Using the $5.7 m taxpayer mid-level exception, Mavericks are eyeing FAs like Dennis Schröder, Malcolm Brogdon, Chris Paul, and D’Angelo Russell for short-term guard solutions .
—
🧩 Strategic summary
Objective How Mavericks are approaching it Why it matters
Short‑term PG need Sign Russell, plus pursue vets (Holiday, Paul, Ball) Covers Kyrie (out until Jan)
Roster flexibility Trade Prosper/others to free up cap and spot Makes room for Exum and possible trade chip
Familiar guard depth Re‑sign Dante Exum Continuity, chemistry, versatility
Long-term vision Blend vets + rookies (Flagg) with Davis, Irving Balanced roster aimed at contention
—
✅ What’s likely to happen
1. Signing D’Angelo Russell – Most outlets (including Stein) point to Dallas finalizing this move shortly.
2. Trade to free space – Expect a small package (possibly Prospect + bench player) sent out to open a slot.
3. Re-sign Dante Exum – Once space freed, the Mavs are expected to bring him back for depth and familiarity.
4. Possible extra guard trade/FA add-ons – If opportune, Dallas could scoop in Holiday/Ball/Paul via trades or low-cost free agent deals.
—
🔍 Final Take
Dallas’ plan is clear: secure a reliable floor‑general for Jabari Irving’s rehab period and re‑acquire a familiar piece in Dante Exum to smooth the bench rotations. Leveraging both the trade market and mid‑level exception, the Mavs are creating a multifaceted backcourt buffer with short‑term veterans and long‑term upside through continuity and emerging talent.
—
Let me know if you’d like a deeper dive into any potential trade target, contract projections, or how this guard overhaul fits around Cooper Flagg and Anthony Davis.
