The Dallas Mavericks have shown a knack for unearthing hidden talent and transforming role players into key contributors. Last season, Klay Thompson emerged as a crucial rotation player after joining from the Chicago Bulls. This year, the Atlanta Hawks’ Naji Marshall has become an elite defender. The question now is: can the Mavs find their next defensive stalwart?
The search for an elite wing defender is crucial for the Mavericks’ success. While the current roster is capable of competing with the best when Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are healthy, adding a lockdown defender could elevate the team’s ceiling even further.
Potential Trade Targets
Several players could fit the bill as the Mavericks’ next elite defender. Matisse Thybulle of the Portland Trail Blazers stands out as a prime candidate. Despite being sidelined with injuries, Thybulle’s defensive prowess is well-documented, having already made an All-Defensive Team. His salary also aligns with Maxi Kleber’s, making a potential trade feasible.
Chris Dunn of the Los Angeles Clippers is another intriguing option. Known for his tenacious defense, Dunn could provide the Mavericks with the defensive spark they need. His modest $5 million salary makes him an attainable target.
Haywood Highsmith of the Miami Heat emerges as a dark horse candidate. Playing 25 minutes per game for the Heat, Highsmith has shown flashes of defensive excellence. With Miami’s current struggles, he could be available for the right price.
Hidden Gems on the Roster
The Mavericks might not need to look far for their next defensive standout. Naji Marshall and Quentin Grimes have shown potential but haven’t quite reached elite defensive status yet. With more time in the Mavericks’ system, either player could make the leap to become the team’s defensive anchor.
The challenge for any new addition would be carving out minutes in a rotation that already includes solid contributors like Marshall, Thompson, and Grimes. However, if the right player emerges, it could be the final piece in the Mavericks’ championship puzzle.
For more insights and a deeper dive into potential defensive targets for the Mavericks, tune into the Locked On Mavericks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Mavericks Podcast:
• Kyrie Irving’s potential return against the Denver Nuggets
• Lessons learned from the Mavericks’ recent five-game stretch without Doncic and Irving
• The emergence of P.J. Washington as a versatile offensive threat
