Report: Mavericks free agent target signs with Warriors
By Noah Weber
After one day of training camp, Dallas Mavericks fans are ecstatic for what's to come this season.
Rookies Dereck Lively II and Olivier-Maxence Prosper were running with the starters, Luka Doncic looked in shape, and the vibes were absolutely immaculate.
The new-look roster was beautifully constructed this summer as Nico Harrison and company built a great squad around Luka and Kyrie Irving, but there were points during the offseason when Mavs fans doubted the front office a bit.
Report: Mavericks free agent target signs with Warriors
Free agents were flying off the board left and right, and Dallas was staying put but moving slowly and strategically.
One of Dallas' biggest needs this offseason was wing depth, and they were linked to several of the available wings in free agency.
Dallas was linked to players like Matisse Thybulle (who they signed to an offer sheet but Portland matched), Kelly Oubre Jr., and Derrick Jones Jr. (who they signed), but Dallas was linked to one other wing, and he recently signed with a powerhouse in the Western Conference.
Dallas was listed as a "potential suitor" for Rudy Gay, and he is heading to the Golden State Warriors on a one-year deal according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. Gay has had a great NBA career, as he has averaged 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. He has been one of the wings of the last 15 years, as he has always been a solid two-way role player.
Despite Dallas' potential interest in him, it seems they went a separate direction as they signed Jones Jr. instead. This was likely the better decision, as Jones Jr. looks to be a much better fit and is 11 years younger, but only time will tell.
The Warriors will look to return to the NBA Finals this season, and Gay will be fighting for a roster spot on the loaded Golden State roster. The Warriors could use another wing that provides defensive versatility, and Gay brings that and more.
Gay is a good locker room guy to have, and was known as a leader during his time with the Utah Jazz.
Dallas' first matchup against the Warriors will be on December 30 in Golden State.
We'll have you covered with all the news on the Dallas Mavericks this season, so stay tuned.