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

5. Grant Williams

Now, the name Grant Williams doesn’t always come to mind when you think of a defensive anchor, but the current Boston Celtic has put in a ton of work on that end of the floor.

Williams will be an unrestricted free agent this summer after failing to reach an agreement on a contract extension with the Celtics this past offseason. While it’s likely they bring him back, the Dallas Mavericks could at least make him an offer.

At 6'6, Williams is best utilized as a power forward, but he has the strength to guard fives and the foot speed to keep up with some wings and guards.

In fact, he earned the nickname “Batman” because of how well he’s defended Nikola “The Joker” Jokic over the years. Williams has found similar success guarding guys like Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo, especially in the postseason.

Having someone as versatile as Williams would be a huge boost for the Mavericks on the defensive end. Not only could he guard opposing forwards, but he could take on some of the aforementioned bigger challenges, too, lessening the team’s need for a wing by a small margin.

Add in his elite 3-point shooting, and if there’s any chance the Celtics are willing to let him walk, the Dallas Mavericks should inquire about his services.

Important note: The Mavericks would likely only have enough to make this work if they let Kyrie Irving and Christian Wood walk.