MASSIVE MOVE: After Mavericks confirm a new massive deal Luka Doncic is on his own.
Many Dallas Mavericks fans are likely disheartened by the team’s performance against the Boston Celtics. One major challenge this season is the high level of competition in the Western Conference, which makes it difficult to secure another title shot.
Fortunately, Luka Dončić won’t have to face this challenge alone in the 2024-25 season. The Mavericks’ front office is working diligently to build a strong roster capable of competing with the best teams in the NBA.
The highlight of the Mavericks’ 2024 offseason acquisitions is Klay Thompson. While he may not be the scoring powerhouse he was during his prime with the Golden State Warriors, he remains a valuable asset as the starting small forward.
Additionally, Spencer Dinwiddie returns to Dallas to manage the second unit and provide support for Kyrie Irving. Both Dinwiddie and Thompson are expected to play crucial roles in the Mavericks’ quest to reach the Finals next season.
However, adding new players alone won’t guarantee a spot in the Finals. The Mavericks also need dependable big men to match up against the Celtics and other top contenders, which is why they focused on retaining a solid role player.
Markieff Morris re-signs with the Dallas Mavericks for their 2025 title push
Markieff Morris didn’t see much action compared to other forwards on the Mavericks roster last season, with averages of 2.5 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game. At 34, he’s not a key player in terms of stats, but the Mavericks still value his presence.
Sports Illustrated’s Grant Afseth reports that the Mavericks, particularly Jason Kidd, are keen on bringing Morris back for the next season. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the team views Morris as a veteran leader similar to Udonis Haslem’s role with the Miami Heat. Stein described him as a “lock” to return due to his leadership and championship experience from his time with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
In addition, the Mavericks have added key veterans this offseason. Spencer Dinwiddie, who previously played for the Dallas Mavericks and is known for his versatile skills, has agreed to a one-year deal with the team. Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that Dinwiddie, who was with the Brooklyn Nets and then the Toronto Raptors before being signed by the Lakers, will bolster the Mavs’ backcourt. Dinwiddie’s ability to play multiple roles—starter, spot starter, or sixth man—alongside Luka Dončić makes him a valuable addition. Charania noted that Dinwiddie’s return is a significant move for Dallas as they aim to build on their previous NBA Finals appearance.
Spencer Dinwiddie Played in 28 Games for the Lakers Prior to Joining the Mavericks
BREAKING NEWS: "Spencer Dinwiddie is signing with the Dallas Mavericks" ~ @ShamsCharania #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/KwBNfIM6GA
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) July 22, 2024
After joining the Lakers mid-season, Spencer Dinwiddie played 28 games and averaged 6.8 points, 2.4 assists, and 1.7 rebounds in 24.2 minutes per game, shooting 38.9% from beyond the arc. He had been a starter with the Brooklyn Nets before the trade.
The Lakers’ offseason has been relatively quiet beyond selecting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James in the 2024 NBA Draft. They were initially linked to high-profile targets like Klay Thompson and DeMar DeRozan, but it remains to be seen if they will secure a veteran who can contribute significantly next season.
Dinwiddie had previously been on a three-year, $54 million contract with the Nets and signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Lakers. He’s now signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Mavericks, making him a team-friendly addition for Dallas.
What’s Next for the Lakers This Offseason?
Paul Pierce thinks the Lakers should trade Dalton Knecht for a third star after his stock improved in the summer league 👀
(🎥 @undisputed )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 19, 2024
The lack of significant moves this offseason has led some Lakers fans to wonder about the team’s next steps. Jovan Buha of The Athletic has suggested that a blockbuster trade might not be in the cards soon. In a July 16 episode of the “Buha’s Block” podcast, he noted, “Right now, a blockbuster deal, I just don’t see it. I don’t see [the Lakers] having enough for Lauri Markkanen. I’ve not heard of any interest with Brandon Ingram. So, I don’t see them going for those two guys.”
With limited roster spots available, the Lakers might need to consider trading a package of role players to create room for new additions.