NBA Champion forward is a 'lock' to sign with Mavericks in free agency

The Dallas Mavericks were expected to be active in free agency this summer as they tried to reload their roster around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving following an NBA Finals loss to the Boston Celtics. The team showed interest in several players throughout the summer, and they've made some moves that made the team significantly better.

However, there were two specific players former Maverick Theo Pinson believed Dallas must sign to make a championship run. The players Pinson mentioned included Klay Thompson and Spencer Dinwiddie.

Dallas followed Pinson's advice and signed both players this summer. The team first signed Thompson to a three-year $50 million contract. The move was a priority for the Mavs, as the team lacked an extra shooter to pair alongside Doncic and Irving.

Thompson was rumored to be torn between the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks, but ultimately choose Dallas. He felt the Mavs gave him the best chance at winning another championship.

Markieff Morris will surely re-sign with Mavericks in free agency

Dinwiddie also spurned the Lakers, as the former Mavs signed him to a one-year deal Monday to return to Dallas. His addition rounds up the team's roster at 15 players.

Although, the Mavericks may not be done making roster additions. NBA insider Marc Stein reports that Markieff Morris is a "lock" to re-sign with the Mavs (subscription required).

"As covered here on July 4th, Morris is regarded as the Mavericks' answer to Udonis Haslem in terms of supplying veteran influence in the locker room at age 34 and is a lock to return. "

- Marc Stein

Bringing back Morris could be tricky, as the team already has 15 players under contract.

One option could include waiving or moving guard A.J. Lawson, as he has a non-guaranteed contract through the 2026-27 season.

Whatever Dallas decides to do, bringing back Morris is a must. Last season, he was the team's vocal leader in the locker room. Morris has championship pedigree as he won the NBA Finals in 2020, and all signs are pointing to him returning.

All-Star Luka Doncic took note of Morris' presence.

Morris' leadership is something that every team needs. He is the one player who understands his role with the team and is willing to help his teammates in need.

The 17-year veteran is at the point in his career where his main focus is helping Dallas win, whether through his presence on or off the court.

Morris was brought to Dallas as part of the Irving trade. He has seen little playing time since joining the Mavs and is mostly used during garage time.

This doesn't bother Morris, as he has promised Mavs' fans his willingness to re-sign with the team. Assuming his promise comes true, then this is the icing on the cake for a perfect offseason for the Mavericks.

Now, all Dallas needs to do is actually lock in Morris for the coming season.

Stay tuned for all the latest updates on the Dallas Mavericks and their moves this offseason.