7 Prospects the Dallas Mavericks should target in the top 10 of the 2023 NBA Draft

2. Jarace Walker, F, Houston

Walker is projected to be a top-ten pick, and he may not be left on the board if the Mavericks select tenth. Fans have seen crazier things like Tyrese Haliburton’s recent slide, which was a massive mistake by multiple teams.

Walker’s defense has scouts drooling. The 6’8 forward has the size and strength to guard any player on the floor. His 7’2 wingspan will allow him to play some small ball five in the NBA, and the 19-year-old averaged 6.8 rebounds, 1.0 steal, and 1.3 blocks in 27.6 minutes per game during his lone season at Houston.

His offensive game is where there are question marks. Walker shot just 34.7 percent from 3-point range over 101 attempts in college, and his shooting mechanics are questionable. There is a hitch at the top of his shot that teams may try to eliminate. Can Walker improve his finishing inside and outside shooting to become a dominant two-way forward in the NBA?

The teenager has immense potential, and the Dallas Mavericks desperately need defense. Walker is the best option for that, and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him the perfect fit next to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in Dallas. The Mavs have also had success remaking jumpers, which could unlock Jarace Walker’s full potential.