Mavericks' Tarik Biberovic setback makes their shooting concern even more glaring

Despite adding several sharpshooters this offseason, the Dallas Mavericks' 3-point shooting was concerning during the preseason. They shot just 32.4 percent from three, which ranked 26th in the NBA, and while their volume dramatically increased compared to last season, their efficiency did not.

Tarik Biberovic is out with right heel bursitis

Tarik Biberovic looked like he would be a major help to fix Dallas' shooting struggles from last season, as he shot 48.9 percent from three on 5.2 attempts per game for Fenerbahce in the BSL last season, but he won't even be able to suit up tomorrow for the season opener against the Houston Rockets.

Dusty May said that Biberovic did not practice on Tuesday, as he is dealing with right heel bursitis, and he won't be available to play tomorrow. This is a significant blow for Dallas, as they need all the help they can get, and his status will definitely be something to monitor over the first few games of the regular season.

This same injury caused him to miss the Mavs' final preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, and he was clearly walking with a limp as he headed to the locker room with his teammates after the game.

Dallas needs Biberovic's shooting

While Biberovic's role in May's rotation wasn't guaranteed, his shooting was at least something the first-year head coach could look to if he needed a spark off the bench. His jumper should get more efficient as he gains confidence as well, and his upside as a rookie shooter was an extremely exciting storyline to keep an eye on this season.

He was one of the best shooters in Europe over the last few years, and without him, May will have to look for 3-point shooting elsewhere within his frontcourt.

Santi Aldama, another player who was expected to help fix the Mavericks' shooting, also may not play for Dallas tomorrow. He was a limited participant in practice today after not playing in any of the team's preseason games, meaning that Zaccharie Risacher, Cooper Flagg, P.J. Washington, or Morez Johnson Jr. needs to step up.

None of the players in this group are known for being knockdown shooters, showing how valuable Biberovic's role could end up being if he can string together some significant performances and make shots once he's healthy.

The Mavs' shooting reform this summer wasn't as dramatic as it seemed, and Masai Ujiri's summer additions are going to be put to the test right away on Wednesday. Not having one of the best shooters on the team (on paper) available for this matchup is less than ideal, and it makes Dallas' 3-point shooting look even more suspect heading into a crucial season — especially if he misses extended time.

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