Mavericks rumors: Dallas not viewing former number one pick as top target

The Dallas Mavericks must upgrade their roster this summer if they want to get back into contention. They have to improve their defense, rebounding, and rim protection after re-signing Kyrie Irving. It is a crucial offseason for the Mavs as they attempt to keep Luka Doncic happy and wanting to stay in Dallas long-term.

Rumors suggest that the Mavericks' top targets this summer are Khris Middleton and Deandre Ayton. The three-time All-Star wing is an unrestricted free agent, and the Bucks face a new luxury tax landscape in deciding to bring him back. The former number-one overall pick is under contract until 2026, but the Suns may be looking to move on after a disappointing season of their own.

Marc Stein had plenty to say about the Mavs in his latest post (subscription required), including that Ayton is not the team’s number one target this summer.

Rumors: Dallas Mavericks not viewing Deandre Ayton as top target

Ayton is an incredible talent, and he will certainly draw interest if made available. According to Stein, members of the Mavs front office are intrigued, but his contract is a massive question mark.

He has three years at more than $102 million left on his deal, and the 24-year-old needs to take another step forward to return that value. Ayton has the talent and potential, but he needs to be more locked in and aggressive on the court. Right now, he settles for too many floaters and mid-range jumpers. There was also hope that he would develop a 3-point shot and become an elite rim protector.

This report does not say that the Mavs are out on Ayton. He may not be their number one target, but the team could still trade for the 24-year-old big man this summer.

A change of scenery could be the best thing for the former number-one overall pick. Linking up with Luka Doncic in Dallas could be perfect. Number 77 is going to get him easy buckets, and the Mavericks have had success developing jump shots in recent years. It would be on Jason Kidd, Sean Sweeney, and the rest of the coaching staff to get Ayton to buy into protecting the rim, but Tyson Chandler could mentor him.

The Dallas Mavericks desperately need a center upgrade this summer. They cannot start the 2023-24 season with Dwight Powell at the five. Deandre Ayton is expected to be available, but there will be no shortage of options. Can the Mavs find the right fit next to Luka Doncic? Stay tuned to find out.