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