8 Potential Dallas Mavericks free agent targets with ties to Kyrie Irving

7. Jevon Carter

Despite being just 6’1, Carter is known for his defense. He averaged a career-high 22.3 minutes per game last season for the Bucks. His number did not leap off the screen, but his play had some making the case that he deserved All-Defensive recognition.

The Mavericks desperately need a point-of-attack defender, and Carter could certainly offer that option. According to the NBA’s matchup data, Carter guarded Zach LaVine, Jalen Brunson, Jaden Ivey, Tyrese Maxey, Victor Oladipo, and Jalen Green the most this season. All of those players have the ball in their hands and are looking to create offense.

Carter would allow the Mavericks to play Kyrie off the ball on defense, but it would create some size issues. The 27-year-old would be a reserve option in Dallas, but he could be an impactful signing and perfect fit.

The Brooklyn Nets acquired Jevon Carter during the 2021 offseason, but he spent just six months with the team before being waived. The Bucks picked him up in February 2022, and he has found a fit in Milwaukee. Carter has a $2.2 million player option for next season that he could decline to become an unrestricted free agent. 

If he opts out, the Dallas Mavericks should certainly be interested, but it is unclear if they can outbid the Bucks for his services.