Dallas Mavericks rumors: Nicolo Melli back to Olimpia Milano next season

The Dallas Mavericks acquired Nicolo Melli just minutes before the trade deadline. They sent James Johnson, Wesley Iwundu, and their 2021 second-round pick to New Orleans for J.J. Redick and Melli. It was the Mavs’ final chance to upgrade their roster before the postseason. They added a sharpshooter and a capable forward for the stretch run.

Melli played a limited role in Dallas. He saw action in 23 of 28 regular-season games but played just 14.1 minutes a night. The 30-year-old averaged 4.0 points and 2.8 rebounds during his time with the Mavericks.

After two seasons in the NBA, Melli can be a restricted free agent this offseason. He is a role player in the NBA, but a star in Europe. The 30-year-old just helped Italy qualify for the Olympics. Melli is rumored to be returning home to play in Italy next season. Let us take a closer look at the latest.

Dallas Mavericks rumors: Nicolo Melli to play for Olimpia Milano next season

Eurohoops reported that Melli is close to signing a deal to play for Olimpia Milano in his native Italy next season. The 30-year-old played for them from 2010 to 2015. He was All-EuroLeague in 2017 and has been on numerous championship teams in Europe since turning pro in 2007.

Nicolo Melli’s time in the NBA did not go as planned. He struggled to find a consistent role with both the Pelicans and Mavericks. The 30-year-old will return home where he will be featured.

Olimpia Milano recently signed NBA veteran Jerian Grant. They finished third in the EuroLeague and were runners-up in Serie A last season. Adding Nicolo Melli should only help them improve. Expect the Italian club to be in the running for the EuroLeague championship next season.

The Dallas Mavericks are facing an important offseason. They could have eight players become free agents this summer. The Mavs want to improve the roster around Luka Doncic. They will need to fill Melli’s spot if he heads to Olimpia Milano. Stay tuned to see what moves Dallas can pull off in the month’s ahead.