Heading into the summer, the Dallas Mavericks likely have retaining Kyrie Irving near the top of their wishlist. But it never hurts to have a backup plan, or two, should Irving find a more appealing offer elsewhere.
As the Mavericks seek different paths to improving the roster around Luka Doncic, both Christian Wood and Dwight Powell are also set for unrestricted free agency, and reports already suggest Wood is a goner.
With both players playing key roles this past season, averaging a combined 45.1 minutes per game, the Mavericks must find a way to replace their production. But according to Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype, those discussions are already being had by the Mavs’ front office.
Scotto’s sources indicate the Mavericks have expressed interest in Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams, who is also scheduled for restricted free agency this summer. Any offer the Mavericks make, the Celtics would have the ability to match. It should also be noted, Doncic and Williams share the same agency, WME Sports, which could give them a leg up in negotiations.
Another player from a playoff contender the Mavs are interested in signing is a familiar face in Dallas. Sacramento’s Harrison Barnes previously spent 205 games in a Mavericks uniform from 2016-19 and is once again set for free agency. Somehow still just 31 years old, the former seventh overall pick is coming off a season where he started all 82 games, averaging 15 PPG for the Kings.
Both players would add another scoring threat to the Mavericks’ lineup, while bringing valued playoff experience to a blossoming roster looking to get past the first round of the playoffs in the 2023-24 season.
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