Grading Nico Harrison on his first season as Dallas Mavericks GM

Grading Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison in year 1: Overall

Hiring Nico Harrison was an outside-the-box move for the Mavericks. He spent 20 years working his way up at Nike and building relationships, but the former college basketball player had no front office experience. Harrison quickly went from “The Shoe Guy” to respected GM.

The Dallas Mavericks made a surprise run to the conference finals, but they are set up for future success. Luka Doncic is locked in long-term. Harrison agreed to an in-season extension with Dorian Finney-Smith, and the team has plenty of medium-sized contracts to flip if a star becomes available on the trade market.

Arguably Harrison’s worst move in year one was missing out on extending Jalen Brunson. The Mavericks could have gotten a discount and a had a prime trade chip if they worked out a deal in January when JB approached the team about getting something done.

Overall grade for Nico Harrison in Year 1 as Dallas Mavericks GM: A

Harrison exceeded all expectations in his first year as the Mavs made the conference finals. Credit to him for improving an already talented roster on the margins.

Can he do it again this offseason? Executives believe they are just one player short, but can Harrison add that piece before next season? Stay tuned.