The future of the Dallas Mavericks: One piece at a time

Another year, another highly touted lottery pick … Where do the Dallas Mavericks go from here?

“So, where do you see yourself in five years?” This is a question many are asked on a job interview, or even a first date. Perhaps, this is the question we–the stubbornly faithful fans–need to start asking our beloved Dallas Mavericks.

Since they hoisted the Larry O’Brien trophy, back in 2011, the Dallas Mavericks haven’t quite been themselves. Instead, they have gone from lackluster playoff appearances to missing the postseason altogether, while becoming a lottery team the last two seasons. Needless to say, many MFFL have grown fidgety, unclear of which direction the organization is taking.

Here is one probable option:

BROOKLYN, NY- JUNE 21: Luka Doncic speaks with the media after being selected number three overall during the 2018 2018 NBA Draft on June 21, 2018 in Brooklyn, NY. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Matteo Marchi/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Rebuild via Draft

Based on the talent gap between the Mavericks and teams in position to compete at a high level, this is the likeliest of the two options. With little to no attractive bargaining chips or allure, attracting a big-name free agent seems to be a pipe dream. Maybe, just maybe, the front office has come to terms with this.

On Thursday, June 21st, Dallas completed yet another successful draft. Much to the delight of most fans, Dallas landed Luka Doncic of Slovenia, with the No. 3 pick, thanks to an eleventh hour trade with the Atlanta Hawks. They followed up by selecting Villanova’s Jalen Brunson, Louisville’s Raymond Spalding, and Dayton’s Kostas Antetokounmpo, with the 33rd, 56th and 60th picks, respectively.

Doncic is joining last year’s lottery pick, Dennis Smith Jr., in Dallas’ backcourt of the future, while Brunson, Spalding, and Antetokounmpo are expected to contribute off the bench.

Next: Kostas Antetokounmpo: The other Greek Freak

For proponents of the current youth movement, enduring a few more losing seasons is worth it. After all, who doesn’t like stacking promising young talent? Following the path of the defending-champion Golden State Warriors just may pay off, in the near future.