The Mavs have projected cap space opening up. Here are realistic targets.
Tier 1 (dream targets):
- Names withheld until FA officially opens — but the Mavs need a two-way wing who can shoot 37%+ from three and guard the opposing team's best perimeter player.
Tier 2 (realistic):
- Role players who can space the floor around Luka
- A backup center who can switch in pick-and-roll
- A veteran point guard for bench unit creation
What the analytics say Dallas needs:
- Source: Cleaning the Glass — Mavs are bottom-5 in defensive rating when Luka sits
- Source: Basketball Reference — bench net rating is -4.2, worst among playoff teams
The Luka tax: Every free agent decision must be viewed through one lens — does this make Luka's life easier?
Sources:
- Cleaning the Glass — on/off splits
- Basketball Reference — team stats
- Spotrac — projected cap space
Is it just me?
The bench is the real problem. When Luka sits, this team falls apart. The data proves it.