Mavericks breakout big shockingly remains unsigned and fans can't believe it

The Dallas Mavericks have one of the best center duos in the league. Last season, Dallas had a center rotation that relied heavily on Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford. Both players excelled for the team, as they brought their flair to Dallas. However, things could be different this season with Gafford signing an extension. It's a possibility that coach Jason Kidd could make a change in the starting lineup and start Gafford over Lively II, especially with Lively II's injury history. It's a move that would have fans question the team's motive.

Gafford and Lively II aren't the only centers on the team. Last month, Dwight Powell opted into his player option. It's a move that gives Dallas extra veteran leadership and security. The Mavs now have three centers on their roster, as Anthony Davis is the team's starting power forward. Although you can't count out other center options like Kai Jones. He is one player who made an immediate impact for Dallas.

Jones played in 12 games for Dallas last season while starting in six. He averaged five points per game and 3.1 rebounds while playing most of his minutes at the center spot. Jones broke out in his first game with Dallas, as he had 21 points, eight rebounds, and one block. In the following game, he dropped in a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds.

Kai Jones remains unsigned despite breakout flashes in Dallas

So, in his limited time with Dallas, it seems Jones made the most of his minutes. But, what's the deal? Why hasn't Dallas signed him to their roster? Will he be the odd man out when the season starts?

It's a series of questions Mavs fans continue to ponder. Currently, the team's depth chart is loaded, as Dallas brought back Dante Exum on a one-year deal. His signing though, illustrates that a roster move is looming. Dallas now has 16 players signed to their team and will likely need to make changes to meet the 15-man roster.

The best-case scenario would be to sign Jones to a standard NBA contract. As mentioned, Dallas will need to make space if that were to happen. Some players the Mavericks could trade to make room include Jaden Hardy and Olivier-Maxence Prosper. Powell is another name to watch, as the Indiana Pacers might show interest since they need center depth badly. If you recall, Powell has a past connection with coach Rick Carlisle, and a reunion could work for both sides.

So, Dallas has options if they were to bring back Jones. They can make a trade or release players if needed (but releasing someone wouldn't help Dallas' financial situation, and they should avoid that if possible). They have one of the top frontcourts in the league, and adding Jones would further extend that label. He has made a case for why Dallas should bring him back with his freakish athleticism, dunks, and defense.

Jones's play style fits nicely within the Mavs' system. He is a flashy dunker who isn't afraid to use his body to fight inside. Jones is a great rim protector and hard-nosed big man who competes in the paint at an elite level. His athleticism also stands out. Jones can help set up big plays due to his ability as a lob catcher, and the Mavs' guards would benefit from playing with him again. This is something Cooper Flagg would like in his first year in the league, as he loves throwing lobs.

Therefore, to answer the questions above, Dallas must find a sense of direction. Do they want to bring Kai Jones back, or is he not a priority? As stated, if they want to bring him, Dallas has a few options to consider.

For now, Mavs fans must wait to see what Nico Harrison decides. Most fans would likely agree that they would love to have Jones back in Dallas. However, it's a process the team must figure out.