6 Dallas Mavericks players whose stock has surged this preseason

5. Jazian Gortman

Jazian Gortman's play has been the story of the preseason for the Mavs. Gortman entered training camp on an Exhibit 10 contract, but he is quickly proving that he deserves a spot on this roster.

Over three preseason games, Gortman is averaging 12.7 points, 2.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 50 percent from the field and 53.8 percent from downtown. Gortman has been excellent on both ends of the floor to start the preseason, and he could end up playing himself into a two-way spot for the Mavs.

Although a bit undersized, Gortman plays much bigger than a 6-foot-2 guard. His 6-foot-9 wingspan allows him to guard up when needed, and his lateral quickness and high motor help him effectively full-court press when needed. Gortman looks like he is going to project into being a good NBA defender, and his tight on-ball defense often frustrates opposing ball handlers.

While Gortman's defense has been encouraging, his offensive game is also off to a great start. Gortman looks extremely confident letting threes fly off the catch, and he utilizes his speed beautifully while also having a good sense of what spot on the floor he wants to get to. His finishing has been great to start this preseason, and his feel for the game as a 21-year-old guard is hard to find.

He seems to always be in the right spot on both ends of the floor, and having the opportunity to learn under Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving would help his development tremendously.

Since Dante Exum is out for significant time after undergoing wrist surgery, finding a way to keep Gortman on this roster may be the safe move for Dallas.