2 Mavericks that earned untouchable status, 4 that should be cut loose

Dallas Mavericks player that should be cut loose: 3. Dwight Powell

The Mavs signed JaVale McGee to be their starting center and traded for Christian Wood to replace Powell in the rotation. DP was a DNP-CD in three of the first four games, and he only played against the Grizzlies because it was a 41-point blowout win. Things fell apart from there.

McGee did not fit, so he went from starting center to out of the rotation quickly. Wood struggled mightily on defense, which limited his minutes and production. That opened the door for Powell to reclaim the starting center gig, and the 31-year-old never looked back.

Powell is what he is at this point in his career. He is a strong pick-and-roll partner for Luka Doncic that struggles to rebound and protect the rim. DP is a fine backup big man, but he should not be the starter on a team with aspirations of contending.

The Dallas Mavericks desperately need an upgrade at the five this summer. Rumors suggest they want to bring Powell back as their backup center, but they must cut him loose as the starter. Letting him play spot minutes off the bench as a third-string option should be the plan for the Mavs, but can they find two players better?