3 Huge positives, 2 huge negatives of the Dallas Mavericks offseason

The Dallas Mavericks opened up the offseason with some amazing draft night additions. Dereck Lively II will offer a much-needed shot-blocking presence that hasn't been felt in Dallas for many years, while Marquette forward Olivier Maxence-Prosper (O-Max) and center Richaun Holmes were acquired on a draft night trade with the Sacramento Kings. These savvy additions were only the beginning for Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison.

Harrison went on to light some fireworks on the first day of free agency. With the number one offseason priority of bringing Kyrie Irving back, he did exactly that. Throughout the next few days of free agency, Harrison continued to prove his genius with the additions of Seth Curry and Dante Exum, as well as the re-signing of long-time Maverick Dwight Powell to a reasonable deal.

3 Huge positives, 2 huge negatives of the Dallas Mavericks offseason

His hot streak of brilliance was extended with the biggest splash of the Mavericks' offseason, as he traded for Grant Williams. The 24-year-old will bring a stout defensive presence to a team that was otherwise depleted in the defensive department.

The Mavs then signed NBA journeyman Derrick Jones Jr, yet another signing that will bolster what was a lackluster defense. Jones Jr. will also complement Luka Doncic very well, as he can fly above the rim and catch any lob passes the superstar throws his way.

Dallas has gotten better throughout this offseason, adding youth to a team that was desperate for young athletic players, improving upon their lack of defensive wing depth, and re-signing Irving, one of the NBA's biggest stars.

But even after such a successful offseason, it's still clear the Mavericks have taken a step back in two departments - the absence of a starting caliber center and the anticipation of keeping their star Luka Doncic happy.

Let's take a look at three reasons the Mavericks are better than last year and two reasons why they are worse.