Dallas Mavericks: Where does Kristaps Porzingis fit into team’s plans?

The Dallas Mavericks have already had a massive offseason and the roster shake ups have not even started. They replaced two pillars of the franchise in Donnie Nelson and Rick Carlisle by hiring Nico Harrison as general manager and Jason Kidd to be head coach. It is the first time this decade the Mavs have made changes at either position.

The Mavericks’ new leadership now must focus on improving the roster around Luka Doncic. The 22-year-old superstar averaged 35.7 points, 10.3 assists, and 7.9 rebounds per game during the playoffs, but Dallas was bounced in the first round by the LA Clippers. Kristaps Porzingis struggled in the series on both ends of the floor bringing up questions about his future.

Owner Mark Cuban shared his thoughts on the team’s needs on Wednesday. His answer brought into question KP’s role with the Mavs moving forward. Let us take a closer look.

Where does Kristaps Porzingis fit into the Dallas Mavericks plans

Fans can see Cuban’s quote courtesy of Diamond Leung below.

The Mavs acquired Porzingis to be their second star. Teams do not give up two first-round picks and sign a player to a max contract if they do not believe in their ability. Things in Dallas have not worked out as either party has hoped. KP has been slowed by injuries and has not blossomed into the superstar Dallas projected him to be.

Cuban made it clear they want another star ball-handler. They have two avenues of acquiring one. They could let Tim Hardaway Jr. walk in free agency and use their cap space on someone, or the Mavericks could pull off a trade likely involving KP. Cuban has said multiple times Dallas has not discussed trading Porzingis. He figures to come up plenty this offseason as the Mavs look to improve their roster.

The Unicorn wants to be a star player. He has commented on his lack of touches and role multiple times since joining the Mavericks. Porzingis is likely not against finding a new home this summer.

Will Dallas be able to find a trade for a second star? Do they sign DeMar DeRozan or Kyle Lowry in free agency? Will Kristaps Porzingis be on the Mavericks roster on opening night? There are a million questions to be answered this offseason. Fans have to stay tuned for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks at The Smoking Cuban.