Dallas Mavericks: 5 biggest questions heading into the offseason

The Dallas Mavericks made the playoffs for the second straight year but were bounced in the first round by the LA Clippers. Luka Doncic was otherworldly in the series. He averaged 35.7 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 10.3 assists over the seven games, but it was not enough for the Mavs to advance to the second round for the first time since winning the championship in 2011.

Dallas has a bona fide superstar and top-five player in the NBA under contract. They cannot afford to waste a second of Luka’s incredible talent. The Mavericks should be building a title contender around him as fans read this article.

They are facing a crucial offseason. The Mavs can create $34.4 million in cap space if they decide to renounce their free agents. Dallas has important pieces hitting the open market, though. Do they re-sign their current talent or search for upgrades elsewhere? Here are the five biggest questions heading into the offseason.

Biggest questions for the Dallas Mavericks heading into the offseason

The Mavs have nine players under contract for next season. That does not include Josh Richardson’s $11.6 million player option. It will be a difficult decision for the talented wing after two consecutive subpar seasons. Does JRich search for a larger role elsewhere or cash in with the Mavericks? Dallas could look to trade the 27-year-old if he opts in.

Tim Hardaway Jr., Boban Marjanovic, and J.J. Redick are all unrestricted free agents. Nicolo Melli heads into restricted free agency with Tyler Bey and Nate Hinton. The Mavericks also have a $4.1 million team option on Willie Cauley-Stein.

Here are the five biggest questions for the Dallas Mavericks entering the 2021 offseason.

Next: No. 5