Dallas Mavericks: Danilo Gallinari is the perfect free agent

Dallas Mavericks Danilo Gallinari Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Mavericks Danilo Gallinari Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dallas Mavericks, Danilo Gallinari
Dallas Mavericks Danilo Gallinari (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

Danilo Gallinari makes sense for the Dallas Mavericks

Danilo Gallinari represents the perfect addition for the Mavs to accomplish their short term goals. He is a stretch-four who would fit seamlessly in Rick Carlisle’s offense. Gallo has shot over 40 percent from 3-point range for two straight seasons.

With Kristaps Porzinigs playing the five full time, he would slot in as the starting power forward and help maximize the floor open for Luka Doncic’s penetrations. More than half of Gallinari’s attempts this season came from beyond the arc. He is also a competent defender, something the Mavs need if they want to go past the first round next year.

Gallinari would represent the perfect fit next to Porzingis, creating a big, versatile frontline that can stretch the floor and switch in pick and roll defense.

Having Gallo in the starting lineup would allow Dallas to have Seth Curry and Maxi Kleber coming off the bench. A valuable condition considering the second unit’s lack of production in the playoffs.

Gallinari is coming off two exceptional seasons where he averaged 19.3 points and 5.7 rebounds while shooting 41.8 percent from three on 6.2 attempts per game. It was the most efficient of his career as he scored 23.5 points per-36 minutes in 2019 with the LA Clippers and 22.8 in 2020 with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

At 32 years old, he will be looking to cash on these performances and secure a massive deal. The Thunder, trying to get into a rebuild and with already Chris Paul’s untradeable contract on their salaries, will not be inclined to re-sign Gallinari in any case, much less to a pact that meets his expectations.

Enter the Dallas Mavericks. They could offer big money to the Italian and give him a chance at a deep run in the playoffs.

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