Potential playoff free agents the Dallas Mavericks should target

Though out of the playoffs, the Dallas Mavericks keep their eyes on potential playoff free agents who can add depth to the team next year.

As the playoffs get more intense, the winners continue to strive for victory as the losers sit at home and watch. While most are watching for the excitement, GMs and coaches are watching to see who can be potentially added to their roster next season. The Dallas Mavericks are looking very closely at who can help turn the franchise around for the better in the upcoming season, and post-Dirk. Here’s a list of guys I think the Mavs should have an eye on:

1.Jeff Teague, PG, Indiana Pacers (15.3 PPG, 7.8 APG, 4 RPG) – Teague is a 7 year point guard that can definitely take the reigns in a starting role and manage an offense. He does exactly what a PG does, which is to facilitate and run the offense, making sure players get open and get touches.

He may be looking for a fresh start with a new team and new chemistry all together. His years in Atlanta saw promise but steadily fell short. With Dallas’ need at PG, he’s one that I would certainly look at to help build the chemistry of an upcoming, young roster.

2. George Hill, PG, Utah Jazz (16.9 PPG, 4.2 APG, 3.4 RPG) – I’ve ALWAYS thought Hill had great skill at the PG position. He’s been instrumental on the teams he’s played for (San Antonio, Indiana, Utah), playing any role given. Like Teague, you get a guy who’s durable, can control an offense and helps build chemistry with a young core. Hill tends to get looked over at times, in my opinion. I think in Dallas, he can really prove and show his true potential center stage.

3. Brandon Jennings, PG, Washington Wizards (7.1 PPG, 4.9 APG, 2.4 RPG) – Jennings’ numbers have dropped since his split season in 2015-2016 where he played for both the Pistons and the Magic. He’s been placed on a more reserve spot off the bench, but given a starting role again, his points practically double. Dude is quick, fast, and can pass with the best of them for assists. He’s quite a spark plug for the Wizards in this year’s playoffs.

4. Taj Gibson, F, Oklahoma City Thunder (9.8 PPG, 0.6 APG, 3.6 RPG) – I personally think this can be a steal for the Mavs if they pursue it right. Taj is respected in the league for his tenacity and efforts defensively on the court.

Those glory years in Chicago with a healthy Rose, Noah, and Gasol gave many teams fits. Whether starting or not, Taj gives you height, depth, and keeps the defense alive through the whole game. With Dirk aging and a young Noel in the mix, this may be an avenue Dallas looks at to have some athleticism and length down low.

5. Michael Carter-Williams, G, Chicago Bulls (1.5 PPG, 1 APG, 1 RPG) – His best stop was in Milwaukee and he seems like a forgotten man now on the Bulls. Don’t let the numbers fool you; this kid is looking for a new start somewhere. A young guard who’s 6’6″, with some quickness. He has slowed due to his surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left hip, but he could be an asset in a system that features his strengths.

NOTABLES:

I’ve got a few notables that the Mavs COULD pursue, but I think it’s a lost cause because these players may simply not be interested in coming to Dallas ultimately.

1.Blake Griffin, C, Los Angeles Clippers – Maybe you throw a bone and see if he’s interested; maybe you don’t. To me, Blake has seen the playoffs on a regular basis these past few years. Just don’t think he wants to reset and rebuild with Dallas, plus he’s going to demand a hefty price tag.

2. Chris Paul, PG, Los Angeles Clippers – CP3 is on every team’s wish list who isn’t in the playoffs that needs a guard. And I believe that Paul will listen to a few offers, so still throw that bone like you did with Blake. But again, Paul wants to win now and is going to get paid.

3. Kelly Olynyk, C, Boston Celtics – Call me crazy, but this one could slip thru the cracks. Anyone who’s watched this guy play sees effort 100%. And whether a guy starts or comes off the bench, you can’t ask for much more. He has length, height and he’s not afraid to bang down low. He can add more rim protection.

4. Zach Randolph, PF, Memphis Grizzlies – This guy is a beast, period, and he has given his all to the city of Memphis. Constant workhorse in the paint and he can contend with the best of them.

5. Jason Terry, PG, Milwaukee Bucks – Bring him back for the 3’s.

Next: A Great Game From a Dallas Mavericks Great

Here’s hoping the Mavs are taking notes to this year’s playoffs!