Dallas Mavericks need to bring back Dorian Finney-Smith

The Dallas Mavericks felt like they had to add a co-star for Luka Doncic, so they traded for Kyrie Irving. It was a massive gamble that has yet to pay off. The Mavs lost 18 of their final 25 regular season games to miss the playoffs entirely, and Irving is an unrestricted free agent this summer.

The franchise was so focused on getting a star that they forgot to factor in what they were giving up. It cost them an unprotected 2029 first-round pick, two second-round picks, and two starters. Dorian Finney-Smith was the Mavericks' best defender and the engine of their defense. Spencer Dinwiddie gave them size, playmaking, and scoring in the backcourt. Both headed to Brooklyn as Irving and the little-used Markieff Morris returned to Dallas.

Following the trade, things did not go swimmingly for the Mavericks or Doe-Doe. His playing time decreased on the Nets as Dallas collapsed to fall out of the playoffs. Both sides should be interested in a reunion, and it could happen this offseason. 

Dallas Mavericks looking to buy: Brooklyn Nets at a crossroads

The Mavs have to make upgrades this summer, and they are eager to improve their roster around Luka Doncic. Their top priority is re-signing Kyrie Irving, but they need to improve their wing depth and add a starting big man. The Mavericks will not have cap space, so they will have to make moves in the trade market.

The Nets are at a crossroads. They just broke up a “Big 3”, but they traded for veterans that could net them more draft picks if they decide to go that route. Brooklyn could also try to add a star and contend after making the playoffs without Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn.

Former Maverick Spencer Dinwiddie discussed the Nets options in his end-of-season press conference.

The Nets do not control their own draft picks, which could be problematic in tanking. Still, if Brooklyn is on the fringes they have no incentive to keep veteran players when they could get younger and add additional draft capital.

If Brooklyn decides to retool, Spencer Dinwiddie, Royce O’Neale, Joe Harris, Patty Mills, and Finney-Smith all figure to be available. Could the Mavs jump back in and re-acquire Doe-Doe? They need to make it happen to get back into contention.