NBA Draft Roundtable: Worst Pick the Mavericks Could Make?

By Kohl Rast

Jun 21, 2017

Mar 23, 2017; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) drives the ball past Xavier Musketeers forward Tyrique Jones (0) during the second period in the semifinals of the West Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Xavier Musketeers defeated the Arizona Wildcats 73-71. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports /

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March 18, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) moves the ball against the Saint Mary’s Gaels during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

Lauri Markkanen

“The pick that many have predicted and I fear the most is Lauri Markannen. It’s not that he’s a bad prospect, but unlike our beloved Dirk, he is a true one-trick pony. Markannen doesn’t defend, rebound, or create his own shot well. The fit is awkward as well and simply not a need of the Mavericks. Just ask Dirk himself.” –Sam Casey

“Sorry Lauri Markkanen fans, he’s not our guy. No, he’s not a bad prospect, he just benefits us the least. I understand the allure of a 7-foot sharpshooting big in Dallas. However, the thought of a big man that’s a non-factor on the defensive end makes me cringe. The pros don’t outweigh the cons for me”. –Emmanuel Dixon

“This may seem mean, but I personally don’t want to see another Dirk. For one, he’s his own legacy. For two, Markkanen is the same exact player. He’s 7 ft, long, can shoot the 3 but can’t defend. Sound familiar? I would think the Mavs are praying for another guy like him and in the end would be disappointed. Don’t think they’re in the market to just work on another project like that.” –Aaron Reed

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