Mavericks waive JaQuori McLaughlin: Open up two-way contract

The Dallas Mavericks had a busy day of transactions on Jan. 10. They officially signed Theo Pinson to a two-way contract and agreed to a third ten-day deal with Marquese Chriss before requesting waivers on JaQuori McLaughlin. The 23-year-old was on a two-way contract, and will be free to sign with any team after he clears waivers.

Things just did not work out with McLaughlin. The 23-year-old played a total of 11 NBA minutes with the Mavericks, and he was just not ready for a rotation role, even when the team was hit hard by COVID. McLaughlin did average 13.3 points, 4.8 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 31.6 minutes over 12 games with Texas Legends in the G League.

The Mavs just did not see enough and decided to move on. They waived Eugene Omoruyi to keep Theo Pinson on their roster, but who will replace McLaughlin? Let us take a closer look.

Dallas Mavericks waive JaQuori McLaughlin: Who replaces him?

The Mavs want to keep Marquese Chriss on their roster, but he is not eligible to sign a two-way contract. He is in his fifth NBA season, and two-way players must have fewer than four years of service.

Dallas will be looking outside the organization to fill their second two-way contract. A host of young talents got NBA opportunities in recent weeks as multiple teams dealt with COVID outbreaks. The Mavericks are likely examining performances and have their eyes on a young talent that is more ready for an NBA role. They want to contend for a championship and depth will be a key factor in the playoffs.

Expect JaQuori McLaughlin to find a home in the G League. The 23-year-old needs time to improve his game before he is ready for NBA minutes, but he will continue contributing in the G League for the rest of this season.

How will the Dallas Mavericks replace him? Keep it locked to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest.