Dallas Mavericks: 5 Possible Free Agent Small Forwards

5 of 6

Apr 10, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Indiana Pacers forward CJ Miles (0) dribbles the ball as Philadelphia 76ers guard Justin Anderson (23) defends during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

C.J. Miles

We have talked about two high-dollar scoring options and one affordable defensive specialist so what’s left? That’s right, a hometown boy.

C.J. Miles was raised in Dallas, Texas attending high school at the well-known Dallas Skyline High School. He won the title of “Texas Mr. Basketball” after his senior year and signed with the University of Texas but also entered the NBA Draft. He told the Longhorns that he would go play college ball if he was not selected in the first round, however, after being selected 34th overall, he still decided to stick with the NBA.

Miles has had a reasonably successful career as a bit of a do-it-all type player. At 30 years of age, Miles has played 12 seasons for 3 different teams to this point and has had relative success with all 3. His best years have definitely come with the Pacers, however as his career averages have all gone up over the past three seasons. Miles has been a starter for a large part of his career and does well in his role as the quiet but dangerous type on both ends of the floor.

Jan 27, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers guard C.J. Miles (0) encourages the fans to make noise against the Sacramento Kings at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Sacramento in overtime 115-111. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

The Dallas Mavericks would like C.J. because of his ability to start and contribute all over the floor. He has proven to be a relatively good scorer while also being a good defender and a reasonable rebounder. He doesn’t get in the way too much and seems to be a good locker room guy as well.

C.J. Miles would do well joining the Mavs because he is a professional and respects the game of basketball. The Pacers have no idea what will be coming for them over the next two years and may be ready to unload a few players without any aspirations of bringing them back. If that is the case, Dallas has been a home for Miles in the past and could be again.

This deal would not work if Miles decided to stick with the Pacers and play out his final year. With a player option for the coming season, Miles could decide to stay, but with the changes in salary caps and possibly his last chance to sign a long term deal, I imagine that Miles will be ready to opt out of his contract. Then the Mavs can pounce.

Next: Jonathon Simmons

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