Dallas Mavericks Offseason: Small Forward Options Slim

Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The offseason is upon us and the Dallas Mavericks as always will look to make a splash.

Dirk Nowitzki is the only guarantee to be back of the Mavs’ own free agents. Vince Carter, Shawn Marion, DeJuan Blair, Devin Harris, and Bernard James may have seen their last days in a Dallas uniform. With about $30 million dollars in cap room (Pre-Nowitzki signing new deal), the Mavericks have a great opportunity to improve the 49-33 roster.

The Smoking Cuban will break down possible position options for the Mavericks this offseason.

Small Forward

Marion has occupied the small forward spot since being brought in during the 2009 offseason. At 36, his days as a full-time starting small forward should be at an end.  With a few good names on the market, expect the Mavs to find a new starting forward to pair next to Dirk. Also, with Carter being 37, the Mavs may go after more than one to fill vacant spots.

A decent small forward market can become a great one if LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Rudy Gay choose to test free agency.

Under Contract

Jae Crowder, 23: 4.6 points, 33.1% 3-pt, 2.5 rebounds

Energetic defender who can hit the corner 3. Not the most athletic of small forwards and can’t create for himself or others. Best suited as a reserve.

Free Agents

Luol Deng, 29: 16 points, 30.2% 3-pt, 5.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists

Versatile player who plays both side of the ball. Great wing defender. Even at only 29, durability is a concern for Deng.

Trevor Ariza, 28: 14.4 points, 40.7% 3-pt, 6.2 rebounds, 1.6 steals

Great 3-D player. Great 3-pt shooter with championship experience. Athletic. Not a great creator.

Gordon Hayward, 24 (RFA): 16.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.4 steals

Do it all wing. Rebounds, passes, and defends well. Underrated Athleticism. Saw his percentages plummet due to increased responsibility after departures of Paul Milsap and Al Jefferson.

Paul Pierce, 36: 13.5 points, 37.3% 3-pt, 4.6 rebounds

Still a good spot up shooter. Defense, athleticism, and starting shouldn’t be expected from him. Plenty of toughness and experience to offer.

Evan Turner, 25: 14 points, 32.1% 3-pt, 5 rebounds, 3.2 assists

Lost plenty of value after begin traded from Philadelphia. Decent one on one player. Good rebounder. Not a great shooter or defender.

P.J. Tucker, 29: 9.4 rebounds, 38.7% 3-pt shooter, 6.5 rebounds, 1.4 steals.

Underrated 3-D player.

Marvin Williams, 27: 9.1 points, 35.9% 3-pt, 5.1 rebounds

Bust number two overall pick has transitioned into a good role player. Improved 3-pt shooter.

Al-Farouq Aminu, 23: 7.2 points, 47.4% fg, 6.2 rebounds, 1 steal

Ahtletic wing who can rebound. Offense nonexistent.

Wesley Johnson, 26: 9.1 points, 36.9% 3-pt, 4.4 rebounds, 1.0 block, 1.1 steal

Amazingly athletic. Improving spot up shooter. Can’t create but excels in the open court.