Dorian Finney-Smith helps Mavericks remain flexible as they build

Why it matters

The Dallas Mavericks were on pace to return to the playoffs this season. They still may get that chance if play resumes later this summer. Dorian Finney-Smith was third on the team in win shares after their first 67 games. He is the ninth highest-paid player on the Mavericks, though.

Having him locked up at $4 million a year for two more seasons is massive as the Mavs try to continue building their roster. They committed a max deal to Kristaps Porzingis last offseason. Luka Doncic will be earning one in 2022. The Mavericks have a brief window over the next two summers to add another pillar.

Finney-Smith helps that cause. Having a defense-first player that does not need the ball is a plus. When he can play 30 minutes a night, but only makes $4 million a year it becomes massive.

Nobody knows what impact the suspension will have on the cap, but the Dallas Mavericks are expected to have max contract money in the summer of 2021. Adding a third star to Doncic and Porzingis would make them title contenders.

Championship teams need role players too. Dorian Finney-Smith, Seth Curry, Maxi Kleber, and Dwight Powell could be those guys that help Luka and the Mavericks win a ring. Fans can only dream right now, but it may be a reality soon.