NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason needs for the Dallas Mavericks
By Colton Lowe
2. Drafting an immediate impact player
Dallas hasn’t had the best draft history over the last decade. A lot of it has to do with the fact that the Mavs are routinely in the playoffs, therefore not having the luxury of getting a shot at top-15 talent.
That changes this year. Dallas could potentially end up with a top-10 pick, and there is plenty of talent in this year’s draft for the Mavericks to land an immediate impact player and a potential future star.
To me, the biggest need is at point guard. Yogi Ferrell isn’t the long term answer. Kentucky’s De’Aaron Fox and UCLA’s Lonzo Ball figure to be top point guard picks if there’s any chance they could fall to Dallas’ pick. Fox and Ball proved to be big-time talents during their brief college careers and have star potential.
Recently, there’s been a lot of buzz around international draft prospect Frank Ntilinka. The 18-year old Belgian point guard seems like a great fit for Dallas. He’s a pass-first, shoot-second type of facilitator, and could slide right into head coach Rick Carlisle’s system. He’s also made a name for himself with his defensive play. Ntilinka figures to be a top-10 pick, and if Dallas lands him, he could be just what they need.
There’s also plenty of talent out there if Dallas decides to go for a big man instead. Duke forward Jayson has some serious talent. Florida State’s Jonathan Isaac could be the future for Dallas at the four spot when Dirk retires. The super athletic wingman Josh Jackson, from Kansas, could be around when Dallas picks, too. It’s going to be a tough decision for Dallas, wherever they draft this year, but it seems there should be enough quality, young talent for the Mavericks to hopefully sign a future star of the franchise.
Whatever they decide, it’s crucial they get a guy who can come in right away and contribute.