Dallas Mavericks: 5 Possible Free Agent Small Forwards
By Kohl Rast
Otto Porter Jr.
The free agent that most intrigues me in the NBA right now is Washington Wizards wing, Otto Porter Jr. Of all the players that are in finishing out their contracts, none have the ability and skill set that Porter does. Not only is he a pretty decent defender, his offense has gotten better and better throughout his career.
Now, at the age of 24, Otto Porter is done with his rookie contract and ready to spread his wings a little bit. Although he is only a restricted free agent, it is hard to imagine the Wizards being able to match some potential offer sheets people will throw his way. The Mavs should be one team ready to pay big for a young threat like Porter.
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There really are not a lot of small forwards that put up the numbers that Otto Porter Jr. does. I’m not talking about strictly stats, although Porter’s averages include 13.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. No, I am talking about his shooting percentages. For a guy that averages 4.3 three-point attempts per game, it really is amazing that he shoots 51% field goal, 43% three-point, and 83% free throw.
The Mavericks would absolutely love to have a player like Porter because he is a do-it-all type player. Shooting over 50% from the field is a ridiculous task if you are not an under-the-basket center or LeBron James. Add in the fact that he shot over 43% from three-point while also averaging 1.5 steals on the other end. He is a real talent.
Otto Porter would do well to join Dallas because it would open up a whole new world of opportunities for him. Not only would he get paid a lot of money, he would also become a top scoring option for the team. During his time in Washington, his best days were as the number three scoring option on the floor. Now, he would step in as the next big scorer after Barnes.
This marriage would not work because of money. It would be tough for the Mavericks to send that much money to Otto Porter and may not have it in the bank account if they don’t move both Dwight Powell and Wes Matthews. Also, the danger with restricted free agency is the knowledge that Washington could match any offer sheet. A realistic fear in this case.
Otto Porter may not be terribly realistic, but he would be an incredible addition to the Dallas Mavericks.
Next: Danilo Gallinari