Dallas Mavericks not expecting to trade into the 2021 NBA Draft

The Dallas Mavericks are not satisfied at two straight first-round playoff exits. They want to build a title contender around Luka Doncic. The 22-year-old superstar is already a top-five player in the league, but Dallas needs an improved supporting cast to be in the championship picture.

The Mavs are facing a crucial offseason. Luka is eligible for a supermax extension this summer. Getting him to sign is priority number one, but doing so limits their future financial flexibility. Dallas has cap space this offseason and must use it to improve their roster.

Fans were expecting some moves on draft night, but new general manager and president of basketball operations Nico Harrison threw cold water on that hours before the draft. He also offered the latest on Josh Richardson’s decision on his player option. Let us take a closer look.

Dallas Mavericks not expecting to trade into the 2021 NBA Draft

Harrison had this to say about the team’s roster and the possibility that they acquire a selection on draft night.

This is Nico Harrison’s full quote from when I asked about the feasibility/Mavs’ level of interest in trading into this draft. pic.twitter.com/YYS3D9m6Bk
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) July 29, 2021

The Mavericks currently do not have a pick. They traded their first-rounder to the Knicks in the Kristaps Porzingis deal. Acquiring J.J. Redick and Nicolo Melli at the trade deadline cost Dallas their second-round selection in 2021. It does not sound like the Mavs will be making a pick this year.

Harrison also shared more on Josh Richardson’s player option.

Nico Harrison says Mavs haven't been informed yet whether Josh Richardson will opt in to $11.6M contract for next season. Harrison says Mavs are in close contact with Richardson's agent (Bill Duffy) and Harrison says he believes Richardson will take full allotted time (Sunday).
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) July 29, 2021

J-Rich barely played in the team’s final three playoff games to cap the 6’5 wing’s second straight disappointing season. He has an $11.6 million player option for the 2021-2022 campaign. The Mavericks want to pursue a veteran point guard in free agency, and rumors suggest Kyle Lowry is their primary target. The Mavs are going to need to move off of Richardson’s contract to land a marquee talent.

The Dallas Mavericks will make trades this offseason, but it does not sound like it will happen on draft night. Fans should still tune in and enjoy the league-altering evening. There will be plenty of surprises.

Dallas Mavericks not expecting to trade into the 2021 NBA Draft

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