3 scenarios the Dallas Mavericks must avoid during 2023-24 season

2. Struggling to secure a 3-and-D wing

One issue Dallas failed to solve this offseason was finding a prominent 3-and-D wing. The team started rookie Olivier-Maxence Prosper at the small forward spot in their preseason game. In Prosper's first start, he recorded one point as he went 0-2 from the 3-point line.

Another player who could fill in at the three slot is Josh Green. He dropped in six points, three rebounds, and three assists in 18 minutes during Thursday's game. The only downside is he went 0-2 from behind the arc. In the second game, he had six points and three rebounds in 22 minutes, while Prosper had five points and six rebounds in 20 minutes.

Other options for Dallas include moving Grant Williams into the third spot. Assuming this happens, the team could move someone like Maxi Kleber or Derrick Jones Jr. to the power-forward position.

The Mavs could also look elsewhere if they wanted a true two-way player. Some ideas include trading for Toronto Raptors wing OG Anunoby or someone like Robert Covington.

Before trading for Kyrie Irving, Dorian Finney-Smith was the team's 3-and-D player. He could do a little of everything from player defense to knock down corner threes.

Eventually, I do believe Prosper could transition into the role Dallas needs. However, until then, the Mavs will look from within.

Could Green step up to the plate?