Dallas Mavericks to sign rookie Jaden Hardy to 3-year deal

The Dallas Mavericks are hoping that Jaden Hardy blossoms from second-round pick into a high-level starter just as Jalen Brunson did. The organization had both players ranked as first-round picks on their board, but each slipped into the early second. The Mavs were ecstatic to pounce both times, and the team is excited about the potential of their current 20-year-old rookie.

Marc Stein reported that Hardy will sign a three-year deal with the Mavericks before he makes his Las Vegas Summer League debut on July 8 against the Chicago Bulls. Dallas withheld a portion of their mid-level exception to sign the rookie to a multi-year deal.

The Mavs did not repeat the mistake they made with Jalen Brunson. Here is a closer look at the deal and what to expect from Jaden Hardy.

Dallas Mavericks to sign Jaden Hardy to 3-year deal

The Mavs are not allowed to give him a fourth year because they are a taxpaying team, but Keith Smith reported that Dallas can make Hardy a restricted free agent at the close of the deal, which is something they were unable to do with Jalen Brunson as he departed for the Knicks this summer.

Hardy can get buckets. He struggled with his efficiency, during his lone season with the G League Ignite, but the 20-year-old can score from anywhere on the floor.

Head coach Jason Kidd and his staff have had success developing players in Kidd's previous stops, so it will be interesting to see what they can do with Hardy. The 6’4 guard is loaded with potential and only played 24 games with the Ignite last season. Judging him off that small sample alone is dangerous.

The Dallas Mavericks are excited about his potential and fans will get a closer look at his game during the Las Vegas Summer League, so be sure to tune in and enjoy.