Dallas Mavericks: Why the team should sign Montrezl Harrell this offseason

Why Dallas Mavericks should sign Montrezl Harrell: 2. Defense

The Mavs need to make significant improvements on the defensive end to jump into title contention. This season including the three seeding games in Orlando, they are first in offensive rating and 17th in defensive.

The Mavs have an elite rim protector in Kristaps Porzingis. They struggle defending guards and wings on the perimeter. Dorian Finney-Smith is a plus, but the Mavs lack that second option to stop teams like the Clippers. The Mavericks also have problems when KP heads to the bench.

Harrell would give them another strong defender. He is not an outstanding rebounder, but he protects the rim and can guard on the perimeter. Harrell averages 1.1 blocks per game. He has even made a few plays like this one.

The 26-year-old is 15th in FiveThirtyEight’s defensive RAPTOR this season. There are not many guys that can stay in front of LeBron James and block his shot.

Harrell also does well as a help defender by contesting and altering shots. Dallas would always have a plus rim protector on the floor if they signed Harrell. Maxi Kleber would give them three capable shot blocks.

Trez would instantly improve the Dallas Mavericks defense which would go a significant way in helping them become title contenders.

Next: No. 1