5 Players from the NBA Finals who could be realistic Mavericks targets this offseason

The Dallas Mavericks must improve their roster this offseason if they want to jump back into contention. Dallas reached the conference finals in 2022, but Jalen Brunson’s departure started a series of moves that unbalanced their roster. Their defense cratered, and the Mavs roster was further thrown off by the Kyrie Irving trade in February. Dallas lost 18 of their final 25 games to miss the playoffs entirely.

The Mavs face a crucial summer that starts with Irving. The eight-time All-Star is an unrestricted free agent just months after Dallas gave up two starters, one first-round draft pick, and two second-rounders to acquire him. They cannot afford to let Kyrie walk. Beyond that, improvements must be made or Dallas will be back in the lottery.

The Mavericks want to build a contender around Luka Doncic and what better way than adding someone that just played in the NBA Finals? With the Nuggets and Heat set to tipoff on Thursday, here are some realistic targets for Dallas this summer from both rosters.

Players from NBA Finals Dallas Mavericks could target this offseason

5. Bruce Brown

Brown has been a key addition for the Nuggets this season. The 6’4 wing had the best season of his career playing next to Nikola Jokic as he averaged 11.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals in 28.5 minutes per game during the regular season. Brown’s production has increased in the playoffs, despite playing two fewer minutes per game.

The 6’4 guard is the perfect fit for any contending team. He is a tenacious defender that can guard multiple positions. Brown is comfortable defending on or off the ball, and his 6’8 wingspan and strength allow him to matchup against forwards. He also is comfortable as a screener on offense and has an improving jumper. 

Bruce Brown is the perfect role player. He has a $6.8 million player option for next season that he is expected to decline, and the 26-year-old is looking for a significant payday. Could the Dallas Mavericks pull off a sign-and-trade to acquire him? It is unlikely, but they should try it because Brown would be the perfect fit next to Luka and Kyrie.