Why the Dallas Mavericks cannot acquire Collin Sexton: Where does he end up?

The Dallas Mavericks want to improve their roster, and they need another ball-handler after the departure of Jalen Brunson in free agency. Luka Doncic will lead the team’s offense, but Dallas played its best with two playmakers on the floor last season. Spencer Dinwiddie is the only other one currently on the roster.

The free agent market has nearly dried up. Veterans like Eric Bledsoe, Dennis Schroder, and Avery Bradley top the list of unrestricted names, but Collin Sexton is still available in restricted free agency. The 23-year-old has averaged over 20 points per game in two of his four NBA seasons. He is without a contract, and  Shams Charania shared the rumor (subscription required) that he is in no hurry to sign unless the Cavaliers meet his demands.

Mavericks fans hoping the team swoops in and acquires Sexton will be disappointed. Here is a look at how the rules prevent Dallas and other teams from offering him a contract, and why going back to Cleveland is likely the best bet for Sexton at this point.

Why the Dallas Mavericks cannot acquire Collin Sexton: Where does he end up?

The Mavs are over the salary cap, so they are limited to offering just a veteran minimum contract to any available free agent. Sexton does not want to play for $1.97 million when he could sign his qualifying offer with Cleveland for $7.2 million. The 6’1 guard wants $20 million per season, and he will be looking to maximize his earnings regardless.

27 of the 30 NBA teams are over the salary cap right now, according to Spotrac. Only the Pacers and Spurs have the space to offer Sexton what he wants and neither team appears interested.

Here is a look at why the Dallas Mavericks do not have an avenue to acquire Collin Sexton before diving into where he ends up next season and beyond.