5 Dallas Mavericks who may not be back next season

The Dallas Mavericks are trying to build a title contender around superstar Luka Doncic. It is why the front office pulled off the blockbuster trade for Kyrie Irving, even if made their roster unbalanced in the short-term. Dallas has struggled in the early going with their new superstar duo, and it could be an early postseason exit for the Mavericks this year.

They need time to round out their roster. The Mavs were forced to trade Dorian Finney-Smith to Brooklyn to land Kyrie. Losing their best perimeter defender without a replacement has hampered their defense. Dallas has been the worst team in the league by defensive rating when Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving have played together. They need reinforcements this offseason if they are going to become true title contenders.

The Mavericks have seven soon-to-be unrestricted free agents on their current roster and changes are coming in Dallas. Who will not return next season? Here are the five most likely candidates.

Dallas Mavericks who may not return next season: 5. Christian Wood

Wood appears as good as gone this summer when he becomes an unrestricted free agent. The 27-year-old talked about his goal of being an All-Star after arriving in Dallas. He wants to start and showcase his skills, and that is not going to happen with the Mavericks.

Since the Kyrie trade, Wood has averaged just 18.8 minutes per game coming off the bench, and head coach Jason Kidd has brought in JaVale McGee, Theo Pinson, and Markieff Morris as the first big man off the bench before C-Wood. The fit is just not there in Dallas, and Wood will be looking for a larger role elsewhere this summer.

The Mavs tried to trade Christian Wood before the deadline, but they could not find a partner. It will be interesting to see what his market is in free agency, and where the 6’10 big man lands next season. Do not expect him back in Dallas.