Dallas Mavericks: What To Like About Dewayne Dedmon

Could the Dallas Mavericks entertain signing Dewayne Dedmon this offseason?

The 2017 NBA Draft is fast-approaching and the Mavs, like most lottery teams, are banking on adding a game-changing prospect.

With a myriad of young talent worthy of the 9th pick in this year’s draft class, the Mavericks will surely find their player of the future. However, there are some current NBA names floating around that Dallas can add in free agency.

As reported by Shams Charania of The Vertical, San Antonio Spurs center Dewayne Dedmon will opt out of his player option and become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Why should Dallas even look in the direction of the 27 year-old, seven-footer?

Consider these reasons:

Defense

When the words “Spurs” and “defense” are mentioned in the same sentence, it’s common that the first player that comes to mind is All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard. Being both an MVP and DPOY candidate this season, the assumption is justified. However, there’s a silent giant roaming the paint (sometimes perimeter) in San Antonio that played a huge role in their defensive dominance.

At first glance, Dedmon’s averages of 5.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, .5 steals and .8 blocks don’t jump off the screen. Considering he averaged a measly 17.5 minutes per game gives one reason to have a second look at the big man. According to basketball-reference.com, Dedmon’s Per 36 minutes stats balloon to 10.5 points, 13.4 rebounds, 1 steal and 1.7 blocks.

What does that even mean? To put things in perspective, let’s compare those numbers to another big man who once roamed the paint at the AAC. In his first campaign with the Dallas Mavericks (’10-’11), Tyson Chandler posted Per 36 minutes stats of 13.1 points, 12.1 rebounds, .6 steals and 1.4 blocks.

Not impressed by the numbers? Check out his footwork and anticipation.

Availability

How many times have you heard “the best ability is availability”? Cliche as it may be, it’s true. Availability in the form of health is a huge plus that won’t show up on any scoreboard. After a season where the injury bug hit a few bigs, the Mavs can use all the ready and able help in the paint they can get.

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Dedmon was available for 76 games this past season, starting 37 of those. Between Pau Gasol and Lamarcus Aldridge sitting out a substantial amount of games, Dedmon was able to step in and show his worth. Averaging 25 minutes per game in starts, Dedmon held opponents to a league-low 40% FG.

With the addition of Nerlens Noel, Dallas has their center of the future. Unfortunately, the 22 year-old athletic big man has had his fair share of injuries since coming into the NBA two seasons ago. Adding Dedmon would give the Mavericks a much-needed backup and insurance at the position.

How Much Will He Cost?

Dedmon was set to make $3,028,410 in the ’17-’18 season. Opting out to become an unrestricted free agent will ensure him a hefty pay raise, for sure. It’s a bit too early to say what the market will be for Dedmon, but a price tag anywhere between $6-$10 million per year should be doable for Dallas.

Next: Is the 9th Pick a Good Omen for Dallas?

Low risk and high reward. Coming from a great system in San Antonio, Dedmon would be a great addition to the Mavs’ front court. Between his defensive prowess, availability off the bench and affordability, the addition is definitely worth consideration.

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