There is plenty of optimism for the Dallas Mavericks this season. The team signed, traded, and drafted eight new additions this season. Some names include veterans Grant Williams, Richaun Holmes, and Seth Curry. Dallas also drafted ACC All-Defensive player Dereck Lively II and Olivier-Maxence Prosper.
Dallas' reason for bringing in so many players was to do better than last season and make it back to the playoffs. Lively II seems as excited as anyone for next season as he could make a big impact for the Mavs in year one.
Other plays like Curry were added to help increase the team's offensive production. The returning Mav is one of the top shooters in the league, as he ranks sixth all-time in career three-point percentage.
Another reason for the excitement this season is the re-signing of Kyrie Irving and the summer progression of Luka Doncic.
This offseason, Dallas resigned Irving without having to break the bank. If you compared Irving's $126 million contract to Fred VanVleet's $128 million deal, then Dallas did the right thing. The signing also helped the team use the excess money to bring other contributors like defensive specialist Dante Exum and slam dunk champion Derrick Jones. Jr.
As for Doncic, he put on a show in the FIBA World Cup. He poured in 217 points in eight games and shot 42.9 percent from the field. He had one of his best games in Slovenia's elimination loss to Italy. He had a near triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists.
With the 2023-24 season in sight, I'm sure there is plenty of other news that will come Dallas' way.
Here are three shocking events that could happen to the Mavericks over the next year.
3. Dallas finally trades for a third star
This offseason, the Dallas Mavericks were linked to several high-caliber players, including Clint Capela and Deandre Ayton. Dallas is one piece away from becoming Finals contenders, and they still seem to want a starting center.
Currently, the team has a ton of "what ifs" to figure out; Dallas's center position is one of them. During the offseason, the Mavs re-signed Dwight Powell, drafted Lively II, and acquired Holmes. Dallas also recently waived JaVale McGee.
However, there is no indication of who the team's official starting center will be. Powell has been the leading candidate for the past couple of years, but there is a chance the Mavs may want a change of scenery. Lively II is a great option, yet he still has room to grow. Holmes, on the other hand, might be the odd man out.
Finding a 3-and-D player is another concern for the Mavs. Right now, Josh Green is the leading candidate for the position. Williams is another 3-and-D player, but Dallas will likely start him at the four. Prosper is another player to keep your eye on, as he has the potential to be an elite 3-and-D wing one day.
This might be the year Dallas finally lands a third star to play alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.