Dallas Mavericks rumors: Tim Hardaway Jr. will be back next season

The Dallas Mavericks went to the Staples Center and defeated the LA Clippers twice to open their first-round playoff series. Luka has led the way with back-to-back 30-plus point performances, but no player has been hotter than Tim Hardaway Jr. through two games.

The 6’5 wing is averaging 24.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in 35.3 minutes a night through the first two games. He is 17 of 27 from the field and 11 of 17 on his 3-point tries to start the series. The Clippers are giving Hardaway Jr. plenty of open looks, and he is feasting. The 29-year-old has been the Mavs second-leading scorer as it feels like THJ is never going to miss.

Hardaway Jr. is an unrestricted free agent this offseason. With many of the top talents inking extensions, he figures to be one of the top names on the market. Will THJ stay with the Mavericks. Here is a look at the latest rumors.

Rumors: Tim Hardaway Jr. expected to re-sign with Dallas Mavericks

Marc Stein reported this on Thursday afternoon.

Stein is one of the most trusted voices in Mavericks reporting. Dallas has to be careful not to overpay, though. The lack of free agents could have teams looking to hand a massive deal to Hardaway Jr. He has been a key piece for the Mavericks, and THJ continues to improve. Dallas must strike that delicate balance of bring back the talent without paying too much.

The report should come as no surprise. Hardaway Jr. has played his best basketball in Dallas. He was viewed as a throw-in piece of the Kristaps Porzingis trade back in 2019. In his two and half seasons with the Mavericks, THJ has transformed into an elite catch and shoot option. Over the last two years, he averages 16.2 points per game on 44.1 percent from the field and 39.4 percent on his threes.

The Dallas Mavericks have cap space this summer, but it looks like a significant chunk of it will go to re-signing Tim Hardaway Jr. Expect Mark Cuban and Donnie Nelson to be looking for upgrades with what is left. The Mavs want to build a title contender around Luka Doncic. Stay tuned to see what they can make happen this summer.