Jaden Hardy has the talent to push his way into the Mavericks rotation as a rookie

Jaden Hardy could add a transition element for the Dallas Mavericks

The Mavs played at the slowest pace in the NBA last season, and they created the fewest transition opportunities. Luka Doncic loves to control the tempo and slow things down, but getting out in transition could mean a few extra easy baskets each night.

Hardy runs after every missed shot and turnover. He wants to get out in transition and create some easy buckets. It is also where the 20-year-old showcased his best decision-making during the Mavericks Fan Jam scrimmage. Four times Dallas got out in transition and Hardy had two assists, including this lob to Christian Wood in overtime.

The Mavs second unit will likely play faster this season to keep defenses off balance. Spencer Dinwiddie excels at getting downhill, and Jaden Hardy could add a transition element that helps them generate open looks. The 20-year-old played off the ball during the scrimmage, but he has the vision to make some plays, especially when the defense is not set.

Hardy impressed the most on this play because Dwight Powell stopped the fast break. Instead of barreling towards the rim, the Mavericks rookie gave the ball up and re-spaced the floor for a wide-open 3-pointer.

Jaden Hardy played his best in transition during the Mavericks Fan Jam, and he could add a new element to the team’s attack this season if he cracks the rotation.