Answer to Mavericks' biggest offseason question is right in front of them

Jazian Gortman
Jazian Gortman | Stacy Revere/GettyImages

The Dallas Mavericks' first three games of NBA Summer League have not been memorable to say the absolute least. Dallas is 0-3, and they haven't been able to string together any consistency.

This year's Summer League was going to be the perfect chance for Olivier-Maxence Prosper to separate himself and prove that he can be a rotation piece for the Mavs, but he has disappointed thus far.

Jared Dudley assigned Prosper with the assignment of defending the other team's best player, and he hasn't really shined in that role either. Prosper's development could be key for Dallas next season due to their lack of depth at the power forward position, but the Mavs also still need a backup guard.

Jazian Gortman is proving he deserves a roster spot on the Mavericks

It has been reported that the Mavs are looking to upgrade their backcourt depth off the bench, and they've been linked to players like Spencer Dinwiddie, Dennis Smith Jr., and Malachi Flynn. All three players are free agents still, but the answer to one of the Mavs' biggest questions this offseason may be right in front of them.

Dallas signed Jazian Gortman to an Exhibit 9/10 contract, and he had an excellent game on Wednesday against the Miami Heat. Gortman finished with 19 points, three assists, and two steals while shooting 7-15 from the field and 3-8 from downtown.

Gortman flashed his tough shot-making ability early, and his defense was on point to start this game. He has the quickness to stay in front of shifty ball handlers, and he isn't afraid to play hard-nosed defense while leaving no airspace.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and possessing a 6-foot-9 wingspan, Gortman has the intangibles to be a good defender in the NBA. His length will be a problem for opposing ball handlers, and he always brings great energy.

While Gortman may not be the answer to being a third ball handler for the Mavs off the bench, he has showcased that he could be worth one of Dallas' open two-way spots. His defense and energy would fit great in Jason Kidd's system, and he has plenty of time to develop as he is only 21 years old.

Keep an eye on Gortman as Summer League continues, as he could be someone who is fighting for one of Dallas' open two-way spots. This isn't to say that Gortman will be ready for consistent NBA minutes next season, but keeping him around on a two-way spot would be a great move.

Dallas has prioritized getting younger over the last few seasons while also competing right now, and signing Gortman to a two-way spot could pay off massively in the future.

For all the latest on Jazian Gortman and the Dallas Mavericks throughout Summer League, stay tuned as we'll have you covered.

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