Dallas Mavericks: Ding Yanyuhang likely not long for the roster

The Dallas Mavericks signed Ding Yanyuhang this offseason to fight for a roster spot during camp, but an injury may end his chance before it begins.

The Dallas Mavericks signed Ding Yanyuhang this offseason in part because of their trip to China.  Yanyuhang is 25 years old and signed a one-year non-guaranteed contract with the Mavs.  He is a two-time MVP in the CBA and plays a starring role for the Chinese National Team.

For Ding to make the Mavericks regular season roster, he was going to have to stand out during training camp.  The team is light on wing players, but Yanyuhang would have to replace a player with a guaranteed deal.  That is a tough task for any undrafted NBA rookie.

Injury derails his chances

Unfortunately, Ding Yanyuhang may be cut before ever taking the court for the Mavericks.  He has a knee injury that is keeping him from practicing.  Below is the latest courtesy of ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.

Two things make that news worse for Ding.  One, tendinitis is not the type of injury any player wants at age 25.  Two, time is running out for him to earn a roster spot.  Missing the two games in China would leave just one preseason game for him to play in.   Even playing in the final contest seems unlikely at this point given that Ding has yet to practice.

He may not even make the trip back to Dallas with the team.  Yanyuhang likely stays on the roster during their time in China and is introduced at the games to a large ovation.  After that, the Mavs likely release him.

Final thoughts

Ding Yanyuhang is not long for the Dallas Mavericks after a knee injury has forced him to miss all of training camp.  It is unfortunate for a skilled player who clearly has aspirations of playing in the NBA.  He played for the Mavs summer league team in 2017.  This is likely not the last NBA fans have heard the name Ding Yanyuhang.

He could potentially return on a similar deal next season.  Hopefully, Yanyuhang is fully healthy and has a chance to prove his worth during training camp.  Ding would improve his chances by standing out for China in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.  Keep an eye out for his impending release and his future.

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