Offseason Report Card: Mavericks get three As, two Cs, and an F for summer moves

5. Mavericks sign Dante Exum

This move came out of nowhere, as it was recently reported that the Dallas Mavericks have signed Dante Exum to a one-year, guaranteed contract, marking his return to the NBA.

Exum hasn’t played in the league since the 2020-21 season, when he played in six games for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The last time he played more than 30 games was the 2019-20 season.

He will turn 28 years old soon, and his calling card has always been his defense. However, his lack of a three-point shot prevented him from catching on in the league.

Throughout his past two seasons overseas, however, Exum has found a three-point jumper. This past year, he shot 38.8% from deep while playing for KK Partizan.

When we first graded the move, it was a solid B+, but in hindsight, it’s not the best Dallas could have done.

If Exum’s newfound three-point shot carries over to the NBA, he’ll be a solid 3-and-D guy, but they already have Kyrie Irving, Luka Doncic, Josh Green, and Jaden Hardy at the guard positions.

Dallas should have used the roster spot to sign a wing or forward who could have given the team a bit more size. Guys like TJ Warren, Wesley Matthews, and Trendon Watford stand out, all of whom are still available.

If Exum’s shot remains consistent and he’s still a defensive force, maybe he was the best option available, but for now, we’ll bring the grade down a bit.

Grade: C