Dallas Mavericks: Should the Mavs bring back Devin Harris?

Dallas Mavericks veteran guard Devin Harris stated his intentions to continue playing next season, but should the Mavs bring him back?

Dallas Mavericks guard Devin Harris is in his 15th NBA season. He was an All-Star in 2009. Harris has played for five NBA teams but has never signed a contract with any other organization than the Mavericks. He clearly has a soft spot for Dallas.

Devin Harris sat down with Eddie Sefko of Mavs.com and stated his intention to continue playing beyond this season. Fans can read the article here.

In the piece, Harris lays out the fact that he would love to re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks. Should the team make it happen? Let us dive into that topic a bit deeper.

Production

Devin Harris is 36 years old and comfortable playing a bench role. He is averaging 15.2 minutes per game this season. Harris is producing 6.2 points, 0.9 3-pointers, 1.7 assists, and 1.6 rebounds a night.

The veteran has produced nine double-digit scoring games this season including a 20-point game against the Rockets on Nov. 30.

Harris is willing to be the fourth or fifth guard in the rotation. He has averaged just 17.0 minutes per game over the last three seasons. Harris is providing so much more than statistical production.

Leadership

Devin Harris has admitted to receiving coaching offers already. It is easy to see why. He is a fantastic leader and has so much experience on the basketball court. Harris uses his basketball IQ to be effective on the hardwood at age 36.

The veteran would bring a ton of value to the Mavs next season. The team will be built around Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. Neither will have seen their 25th birthday or a playoff appearance yet. It figures to be a youthful squad eager to make the postseason. Harris has 64 playoff games under his belt and could be a valuable resource to the young talent.

Verdict

The Dallas Mavericks should bring back Devin Harris next season as long as he is willing to play a role as a leader and mentor that may not be a part of the every night rotation. Harris is playing for the veteran minimum this year, so salary should not be an issue in the negotiation.

Jalen Brunson has earned 20-25 minutes per game going forward. J.J. Barea should be healthy and playing at least 20 minutes each night. If the Mavs sign a point guard in free agency capable of handling starter’s minutes, there could be a playing time crunch for Harris. He would need to understand that heading into the season.

The Dallas Mavericks front office will bring back Devin Harris as long as he does not change his mind about playing next season and desires to a Maverick. The organization always take care of their own.

Fans could not be more excited about the upcoming season, and they should keep it tuned to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest of the Mavs.