Dallas Mavericks: Is Tim Hardaway Jr. a long-term answer for the Mavs?

How does Tim Hardaway Jr. fit with the Dallas Mavericks?

The Mavs want floor spacers to surround Luka Doncic on the offensive end. Hardaway Jr. shooting 39.7 percent from 3-point range over the last two seasons combined has secured his spot in the rotation and helped Dallas transform into an elite offense.

The Mavericks had the top offense in the league in 2020 but finished seventh in the Western Conference because of their 18th ranked defense. They traded for Josh Richardson and dropped THJ to the bench in hopes of improving their D. The Mavs currently sit 24th on the season but are 11th over the last 20 games.

Dallas would prefer to keep Tim Hardaway Jr. coming off the bench if they going to re-sign him. The 29-year-old could close games, but he gives them a shot taker and maker in the second unit. Coach Carlisle is not afraid to play Luka with the bench group. Having Hardaway Jr. there gives the unit a shot in the arm.

Hardaway Jr. also brings leadership and a veteran presence to the Mavericks. The 6’5 wing opted into the final year of his contract because he likes his fit in Dallas. He is coming off a four-year $71 million contract, though. What would it cost the Dallas Mavericks to re-sign him this offseason?

Next: Cost to re-sign THJ?