Rumors: Dallas Mavericks exploring adding Goran Dragic this offseason
By Tyler Watts
The Dallas Mavericks have been pursuing Goran Dragic for over a year. They thought they would be able to sign him in the 2021 offseason when he became a free agent, but he never did. The Heat picked up Dragic’s team option, so they could trade him to Toronto for Kyle Lowry. Many thought the Raptors would buy him out, so he would land in Dallas, but Toronto found a trade to San Antonio at the deadline.
By the time Dragic was bought out, the Mavericks had traded for Spencer Dinwiddie, and they did not have minutes in the backcourt for the veteran. Dragic ended the season in Brooklyn where he averaged 10.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 19.8 minutes per game during the playoffs.
The Mavericks have maintained their interest in Dragic for several reasons, and the latest rumors suggest Dallas could target the 36-year-old guard on the free-agent market this summer.
Rumors: Dallas Mavericks exploring adding Goran Dragic this offseason
Marc Stein dropped the rumor on Friday that the Mavericks “intend to explore the possibility of signing Goran Dragic this summer”.
Whenever Dragic is available, Dallas will be interested. He is a friend and mentor of superstar Luka Doncic. Fans have seen the duo hanging out over the last few weeks on social media, and The Dragon is returning to play for the Slovenian National Team later this month to pair with the Mavericks superstar in a crucial World Cup qualifying game.
Dragic has made it clear he wants to play with Luka in the NBA, and the veteran guard still brings plenty to the table.
Now is the perfect time for the Mavericks to sign Goran Dragic. He would be a veteran locker room presence that could help raise their ceiling in the playoffs. Dragic makes winning plays and could be a key piece off their bench. He can handle the ball, space the floor, and get buckets.
The Mavericks are targeting a 3-and-D wing with their mid-level exception, so Dragic would have to be willing to come to Dallas for the veteran minimum and accept a bench role. The 6’3 guard can likely get more money and/or playing time elsewhere, but he could prioritize trying to win a championship with his friend Luka Doncic. It is worth noting that Dragic was on-hand for multiple Mavs playoff games this year. Stay tuned to see where Goran Dragic ends up this summer.