2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks go defense, Pistons surprise at 5

10. Dallas Mavericks draft Cason Wallace

The Mavs desperately need defense. They struggled to guard on the perimeter and in the paint last season. Defense was a staple of their 2022 run to the conference finals, but they slipped to 25th in defensive rating as Dallas missed the postseason entirely in 2023. The Mavericks need perimeter help, rebounding, and rim protection upgrades this summer if they going to return to contention.

Wallace has drawn some Jrue Holiday comparisons for his incredible on-ball defense. The 6’4 guard has a 6’8 wingspan and a high basketball IQ. He is going to make an impact as a perimeter defender from day one in the NBA.

Some may question the Mavericks taking a guard with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in the backcourt, but number 77 is not going to be guarding on the perimeter. Dallas needs an on-ball stopper, and Wallace may be the best one of those in this class.

The Dallas Mavericks are rumored to be shopping this pick as they search for win-now help around Doncic and Irving. They could trade back a few spots and pick up an extra asset or move out of the draft altogether. Either way, Dallas needs defense. Cason Wallace would be a wise target as he shoots well off the catch, can handle the ball, and is a pest when defending on the ball.