Mavericks can't afford to lose this Anthony Davis trade throw-in

The Anthony Davis trade has worked out surprisingly well for the Dallas Mavericks. Despite limited leverage in moving the 10-time All-Star, Dallas brought in impactful veterans like Khris Middleton and Marvin Bagley III.

Bagley III, in particular, has been a revelation after appearing on the fringe of NBA rotations, emerging as a productive contributor in Dallas. With Bagley III set to enter unrestricted free agency this offseason, the Mavericks now face an important decision on whether his breakout is worth a long-term investment.

Marvin Bagley III went from a trade throw-in to key piece

The former second-overall pick has been highly productive in a limited role, averaging 10.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in just 21.6 minutes per game, while shooting an efficient 59.8 percent from the field and 47.8 percent from 3-point range.

Following a ho-hum 2024–25 campaign, in which he appeared in just 31 games and averaged 8.5 minutes per game, Bagley III has been a revelation. He may never live up to his draft status, but he’s seemingly found his niche in the NBA. Bagley III profiles as an offensive sparkplug off the bench, with the ability to score as a roll man, operate in the dunker spot, and attack closeouts, making him a versatile option in the frontcourt.

His defense has been a consistent weakness throughout his career, and that hasn’t changed in Dallas— the Mavericks are 4.4 points per 100 possessions better defensively when he’s off the floor. However, in a reserve role, he isn’t typically tasked with defending high-level offensive bigs, which better aligns with his skill set.

Dallas already has two stronger defensive bigs in Daniel Gafford and the injured Dereck Lively II, but Bagley III adds a different dimension offensively. His 26-point performance on 11-of-14 shooting against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 27 showcased that upside. He can generate efficient offense in a variety of ways without relying entirely on teammates to create looks for him.

Why the Mavericks can't afford to lose Bagley III

Even with solid frontcourt options, including Mousse Cisse, who has exceeded expectations as an undrafted free agent, Bagley III’s skill set elevates the Mavericks in ways the others do not. As a result, he’s not a player Dallas should let walk, especially if he can be retained on a team-friendly deal.

Following his rookie contract and a three-year, $37.5 million deal thereafter, Bagley III settled for a one-year veteran’s minimum contract with the Washington Wizards, which is a scenario that could repeat itself this offseason. Bagley III has proven valuable, but he’s done so in just 18 games with the Mavericks. As a result, another prove-it deal seems like a realistic outcome for the 27-year-old.

If that’s the case, Dallas shouldn’t hesitate to re-sign Bagley III. He’s become a genuinely valuable piece of the Anthony Davis trade after initially being viewed as a throw-in, and the Mavericks would be wise to capitalize on what’s turned into a low-risk, high-reward addition.