Free agency opens July 1, 2026. Here is the Mavericks' situation and who they should target.
Current cap situation:
- Projected salary: $173M (over the $147M cap)
- Available tools: Taxpayer MLE ($7.5M), bi-annual exception ($4.5M), minimum contracts
- Trade exceptions: One $8.2M trade exception expiring August 2026
Priority 1: 3-and-D wing (MLE target) The Mavs need a wing who can shoot 37%+ from three and guard the opposing team's best perimeter player. This archetype is the most valuable in the NBA and rarely hits free agency at a discount.
Ideal profile: 6-5 to 6-8, defensive versatility, 38%+ catch-and-shoot percentage, willing to play off the ball in a Luka-centric offense.
Priority 2: Backup center (minimum contract) A veteran big who can play 15 minutes per night, protect the rim, and not be a liability in pick-and-roll defense. This is a minimum-contract role but finding the right fit matters.
Priority 3: Bench playmaker (bi-annual exception) When Luka and Kyrie sit, the offense needs a creator. A veteran point guard who can run sets and shoot is ideal.
The trade route: The $8.2M trade exception can be used to absorb a player without sending salary back. If the front office identifies a player being dumped by a rebuilding team, this is a path to meaningful talent addition.
Sources:
- Spotrac — Mavs cap sheet
- CBA FAQ — exception rules
- NBA.com — free agent rankings
- The Athletic — Mavs offseason reporting
Minimum contract centers are not nothing. Look at what players like Gafford provided in 2024 on an affordable deal. The right veteran big at the minimum can change a playoff series.