10 Defensive anchor free agents the Dallas Mavericks should target this offseason

Just two seasons ago, the Dallas Mavericks made a run to the Western Conference Finals. And while the play of Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson played a big part in that, their defense was the difference-maker.

Any team with Doncic at the helm should have success on the offensive end, but creating a winning formula on the defensive side of the ball will be the key to success in Dallas.

This past season, they failed to reach that goal, finishing as one of the worst defenses in the league. In turn, they failed to even qualify for the Play-In Tournament.

Now, heading into the offseason, they should be focused on changing that.

10 Defensive anchor free agents the Dallas Mavericks should target

The Mavericks will explore plenty of potential trade options as they look to improve the roster around Doncic and Kyrie Irving, but there are plenty of free agents that could help change the pace on defense.

This free agency class may not be chock full of superstars, but there are plenty of quality players who will be available. And the Mavericks should have some money to dole out.

According to Spotrac, the Mavericks are projected to have a little over $21 million in cap space available to them. That’s if they part ways with Christian Wood and Irving, and if they keep Irving, they would still have their mid-level exception.

Regardless, they should be looking to add players to the mix who can help set the tone on the defensive end. They don’t have to be DPOY candidates. They can even be minimum-contract players, but those players must be able to help change the culture.

With that in mind, here are ten defensive anchors the Mavericks should target in free agency this summer.