Mavericks: Why they must agree to an extension with Dorian Finney-Smith

Dallas Mavericks Dorian Finney-Smith
Dallas Mavericks Dorian Finney-Smith / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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Dallas Mavericks, Dorian Finney-Smith
Dallas Mavericks Dorian Finney-Smith / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Why Dallas Mavericks must extend Dorian Finney-Smith: 5. Floor spacing

The Mavs had five players shoot over 39 percent from 3-point range last season, which is a testament to the floor spacing and playmaking abilities of Luka Doncic. They want to spread things out and let their superstar attack. The 22-year-old led the league in time of possession and is a master at finding the open man.

No player on the team took more attempts and shot a better percentage than Finney-Smith. His 302 3-pointers were third on the team, but his 39.4 percent edged Tim Hardaway Jr’s 39.1 percent. Doe-Doe is a crucial floor spacer for the Mavericks, but none of his makes were bigger than this one from May 1 against the Washington Wizards.

The Mavs added Reggie Bullock and Sterling Brown, who both shot over 40 percent from 3-point range last season. They are embracing their identity of spacing the floor around Luka. Finney-Smith’s ability to defend multiple positions makes him a key piece of the team’s puzzle now and moving forward.

Dorian Finney-Smith has improved his 3-point percentage in each of his five NBA seasons. Do not be surprised to see him shoot north of 40 percent from long range this year, but that is far from the only reason the Mavericks need to keep him in Dallas.