Dallas Mavericks still in on Kemba Walker despite his recent comments

The Dallas Mavericks chances of signing Kemba Walker took a hit after his recent comments, but here is why the Mavs should not give up yet.

The Dallas Mavericks are formulating a plan for the offseason. They have cap space to spend and the desire to build a contending roster. The Mavs have Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis as the cornerstones of an entertaining young core. They need the remaining pieces that push Dallas back to the playoffs, though.

A prime target this summer is Kemba Walker. The Mavericks rumored interest goes back months.

The pathway to signing the All-Star point guard got significantly more difficult in recent weeks, though. It began with Kemba being selected as third-team All-NBA. That made him eligible to sign a supermax contract with the Hornets.

Kemba comments on his free agency

A new development took place on June 1. Walker gave some quotes to Jared Weiss of The Athletic about his free agency while in Japan. Fans should read the entire article here (subscription required).

Kemba notes that the Hornets are in the lead to retain his services. He mentions his affection for the city of Charlotte and how special it is to remain with one team for your entire career.

The Dallas Mavericks are not the front runners for his services, but that was never the case. Let’s take a look at why they shouldn’t throw in the towel yet.

Why the Mavs are still in the sweepstakes

The article did not give Dallas supporters a ton of hope, but do not count it out yet. Kemba noted he hasn’t fully thought through his free agency and money is not the deciding factor. The Mavericks are in the running for his services. Owner Mark Cuban and the front office are going to have to convince Kemba that Dallas is the place for him to take his career to another level.

The Mavs also have a clearer path to contention than the Hornets. Charlotte has a ton of money committed next season. They have failed to make the playoffs since 2016. The Mavericks can pitch Kemba pairing up with a young and improving core to return to the postseason.

Dallas fans should have faith in the front office this summer. The Mavs may sign Walker, or they will use the cap space on other free agents that improve the team. Regardless, the Mavericks are headed toward contention. A few shrewd moves could make that a reality next season.

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