Dallas Mavericks workout 3 NBA veterans: Why it may not mean what fans think

The Dallas Mavericks have a full 20-man training camp roster, but they are not shying away from making moves. They released Nate Hinton from his two-way contract and replaced him with Jaquori McLaughlin just days ago. Dallas is looking to maximize their talent and put the best possible roster around superstar Luka Doncic.

Shams Charania reported the Mavs worked out Isaiah Thomas, Lance Stephenson, and former Maverick Monta Ellis on Thursday. All three are looking to make NBA comebacks this season.

Are the Mavericks interested in signing those three players? Here is a look at why their workout with the team may not mean what fans think.

Dallas Mavericks workout 3 NBA veterans: What does it mean?

Holding workouts for unsigned players is not uncommon. Thomas did play three games with the Pelicans last season, but the 32-year-old is looking to prove he is healthy after several hip injuries. Stephenson has not played in the NBA since 2019, and Monta Ellis saw his last action in 2017. All three are searching for homes in the league, but the Mavericks already have a full roster. Do not expect any of them to land in Dallas, but their workout does mean two things for the organization.

First, the Mavs are not satisfied with their roster. They know the roster lacks ball-handling and playmaking ability behind Luka Doncic. Jalen Brunson is a capable backup point guard, but the Mavericks need another play that can dribble and run the offense.

Second, this workout proves that new general manager and president of basketball operations Nico Harrison is going to turn over every stone to improve the Dallas Mavericks roster. Stephenson, Ellis, and Thomas were all starters in the NBA and impactful role players at one point in their careers. Harrison wants to see with his own eyes if they have anything left to contribute. If the Mavs are working out these veterans, they are still working the phones looking for deals to upgrade their roster.

Do not be surprised to see the Dallas Mavericks hold workouts for other players before training camp kicking off on Sept. 28. They want to have the best possible roster heading into the season. Stay tuned for all the latest on the Mavs at The Smoking Cuban.