Best guards Dallas Mavericks could target in free agency if Jalen Brunson leaves

Dallas Mavericks could pull off a trade but landing a playmaker is always expensive

The Mavs targeted a ball-handler in the Kristaps Porzingis as insurance with Jalen Brunson heading towards free agency, but Dallas learned they need multiple ball-handlers on the floor at all times to be at their best. If Brunson leaves, the Mavericks will be looking for another playmaker on the trade market.

Sign-and-trades do not work. Dallas needs to improve their depth, so slashing payroll does not increase their chances of a deep playoff run. The Mavericks need a guard under contract that can handle the ball and make plays.

Those players never come cheap. Every team needs multiple playmakers, so Dallas would have to pay the rate on the trade market. They got Dinwiddie because he was off to a slow start, and tensions were brewing in Washington. The Wizards wanted to move his contract, and it still cost Dallas their second-most talented player and a second-round pick.

The Dallas Mavericks need to re-sign Jalen Brunson this summer because the options to replace him are not enticing. Brunson proved he can thrive playing next to Luka Doncic, and he is still improving his game. The Mavs cannot afford to see him walk in free agency, and it will be something to watch closely over the next month.