Dallas Mavericks: Grading the Sterling Brown signing

The Dallas Mavericks made a flurry of moves as free agency kicked off on Aug. 2. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Boban Marjanovic were rewarded with new contracts just minutes after discussions were permitted. The first newcomer of the Nico Harrison era in Dallas that agreed to a deal Sterling Brown.

Marc Stein reported he agreed to a two-year deal worth $6.2 million in Dallas. He was a rumored target in the days leading up to free agency, and the Mavericks reached an agreement with the unrestricted within the opening hour on Aug. 2.

What skillset does Sterling Brown bring to Dallas? How should fans view the move? What grade does the organization get for signing the 6’5 wing? Let us attempt to answer those questions.

Grading the Dallas Mavericks agreeing to a deal with Sterling Brown

Brown had a breakout fourth NBA season in Houston. The 26-year-old averaged 8.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 0.7 steals in 24.1 minutes per game. He shot 44.8 percent from the field, 42.3 percent on his threes, and 80.6 percent from the free-throw line. Brown is a strong shooter and floor spacer. He has connected on 37.4 percent of his 589 career 3-point attempts. His shooting could even take another step forward in Dallas working with Peter Patton and flanking Luka Doncic.

Brown is not a playmaker or ball-handler. He averaged just 1.4 assists per game last season. He will be a spot-up shooter and floor spacer in Dallas. Luckily, the Mavericks employ one of the best playmakers in the league that will have no issues finding Brown when he is open.

The 6’5 wing has a 6’10 wingspan and was an outstanding rebounder and defender during his four years at SMU. His defense will determine his playing time in Dallas. Brown’s numbers were strong in his first three seasons, but they dropped significantly last season in Houston. The 26-year-old was asked to guard elite scorers and top ball-handlers on the rebuilding Rockets. Expect Brown’s numbers to improve in Dallas.

ESPN predicted the salary of every free agent (subscription required). They had Brown landing a veteran minimum deal. He received slightly more from the Mavericks. The minimum for a player with four years of experience is $1.8 million next season. Brown got just over $3 million per year to play in Dallas.

Grading the Dallas Mavericks agreeing to a deal with Sterling Brown: B

The Mavs got an improving player just reaching his prime for a little north of $3 million per season. They may have slightly overpaid, but Dallas needed wing depth and wants to have shooters flanking Luka Doncic. Brown offers both and has plenty of upside to take another step forward with the Mavericks.

It was a solid signing that gives the Dallas Mavericks another rotation piece for next season. Adding Sterling Brown earns them a B grade. They had to slightly overpay for a player they coveted. If Brown can be an elite shooter in Dallas, his value will skyrocket. There is upside for this move to turn into a home run, but Brown would need to earn a career-high in minutes during his two seasons in Dallas.

The Dallas Mavericks are not done making moves, and The Smoking Cuban will be back with news and analysis of every transaction. Fans should check back often for all the latest.