5 roster upgrades the Dallas Mavericks must make this offseason

1. 3-and-D wing

The Mavs made a deep postseason run with Dwight Powell as their starting center, and they were fourth in the Western Conference in February before things fell apart. After the trade, Dallas no longer had perimeter defense, which further exposed its interior flaws. Dorian Finney-Smith was the team’s best defender, and Spencer Dinwiddie had the size and athletic ability to hold his own on defense. Add in Maxi Kleber’s injury and slow return, and it became a recipe for disaster in Dallas.

First, the Mavericks need to guarantee Reggie Bullock's $10.4 million salary for next season. His perimeter defense regressed this season, but he was the only plus-option after the Kyrie trade. Dallas should be looking for a new number one, so Bullock can slide back into a more comfortable role as the second wing defender. The Mavs need a lockdown option here because Luka and Kyrie are both negatives on defense.

The Dallas Mavericks need a Dorian Finney-Smith replacement. Getting someone that is at least 6’7 with the ability to play some small ball five would be a plus. Doe-Doe’s versatility was massive, but the Mavs gambled on a superstar. That is a justifiable move, but now Dallas must replace the necessary piece that they gave up to get Kyrie.

The Dallas Mavericks are facing arguably the most important offseason in franchise history. Can they improve their roster enough to jump into title contention? How will Luka Doncic improve this summer? Stay tuned to find out.