Another one bites the dust. That's been the recurring theme of the Dallas Mavericks for the past five years, whom yet again, have struck out in free agency and failed to land any big fish.
The biggest coup the Mavs have landed during their tenure as aggressive bidders in free agency was Chandler Parsons whom only managed to play just one postseason game for them. They then decided that banking on his knees wasn't worth the risk any longer, and instead, opted to use the money on...umm, StephSeth Curry?
Okay, to be fair, Hassan Whiteside and Mike Conley were the priority this summer. But unfortunately it wasn't to be as Whiteside respectively turned down Dallas' max offer to return to Miami, and Conley, who was meeting with the Mavs when (guess who) Parsons made his commitment to sign a max deal with the Memphis Grizzlies, quickly shun the Mavs and agreed to re-sign with the Grizzlies in what is now the richest contract in NBA history.
However, Cuban and Co. did manage to scoop Harrison Barnes as a result of the whole Kevin Durant debacle. But let’s be honest, Barnes is far from considered a big fish at this stage of his career. It’s not like teams were eagerly lining up to woo him after his disappearing act in the NBA Finals where he shot just 35% from the field – a far cry from his season average of 46.6%. With nothing else better on the market, the Mavs literally had get someone, and so they did, signing Barnes to a whopping four year, $94 million deal. The biggest take is that Barnes still has plenty of room to grow especially now that he is stepping out of the shadows of his superstar Warriors teammates. Dallas coach, Rick Carlisle, also thinks the former Tar Heels collegiate is poised for a breakout season. "I mean, he's been a great system player on a championship team. But at age 24, you know, it's time for him to take the next step, and I think he's looking forward to doing that".
Can the 'Black Falcon' end the Mavs' free agency woes?
So what have the Mavs got to show after years of trying to reel in the big fishes once Cuban chose to prioritize cap space over keeping an aging Championship roster? Well, quite frankly; a grand total of five playoff wins, a bust signing in Chandler Parsons, a consolation prize in Harrison Barnes and a plethora of cap space with nobody to sign. Unfortunately with all that money to throw at, it was lifelong star Dirk Nowitzki who ended up as the biggest loser. By leaving a tonne of money on the table, not only did the Mavs fail to capitalize on the financial flexibility, but they also wasted some quality years of their aging veteran along the way, and now both Dirk and the Mavs are back to square one. Fortunately, not all is lost as loyalty in Dallas does not go unnoticed. More recently, owner Mark Cuban graciously compensated Nowitzki with a lucrative two year, $50 million deal, with a team option in 2017-18 -- Cuban essentially gave Nowtizki all the money the team could without going into the luxury tax.
Draft picks. That's definitely one thing you wouldn't normally associate the Dallas Mavericks with. It's the one big thing the Mavs have failed to get right and why they continuously fail at attracting premier free agents. When the Mavericks began building a team around a much younger Dirk Nowitzki, adding veterans and proven role players made a lot of sense. However, as Dirk aged, not adjusting to that strategy when the team could have really benefited from a hybrid of young talent is one of the reasons why the front office has been so widely criticized.
The last time Dallas held a lottery pick was back in 2013 when they drafted Kelly Olynyk. Instead of keeping that pick to have some young assets to build upon, they opted to trade down with the Celtics in exchange for Lucas Nogueira. But they weren't done yet as they quickly traded further down for Shane Larkin. Essentially, the Mavs flipped their 13th pick for an 18th pick and a pair of second-rounders. Prior to that year, the Mavs also traded down, sending their 17th pick and Kelenna Azubuike to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The most alarming figure is that the Mavs have traded 19 of their very own draft picks since 2000. Wowzers! Do they really only care about preserving cap space? Could they be getting cold feet every year? Or are they simply not trusting their scouts?
If we look even further down the years, the last time the Mavs retained a top 10 pick was way back in 1998 when they drafted Robert Traylor. That pick was immediately traded for some German kid and the rest is history. Of course, the lack of lottery picks is credited to the Mavs having only missed the Playoffs just once during the Cuban era - which itself is an incredible feat that no other teams have accomplished apart from the San Antonio Spurs. However, unlike the Mavs, the Spurs effectively utilized their draft picks regardless of their winning position. Notably, they drafted the likes of Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, George Hill, and Cory Joseph.
It's been a while since the Mavs drafted someone decent
Dallas, on the other hand, have not made merely the same level of impact as their divisional rivals. In fact, they're completely the opposite. The last pick that was of any significance was Josh Howard, drafted 29th overall in the rich 2003 NBA Draft. Of the picks that Dallas have made over the past decade, only five are still contracted to a team - Tyler Zeller, Kelly Olynyk, Mike Muscala, Justin Anderson, and A.J. Hammons.
Dallas Mavericks draft history since 2000
Year
Round
Pick
Name
College/HS/Club
2016
2
46
A.J. Hammons
Purdue
2015
1
21
Justin Anderson
Virginia
2015
2
52
Satnam Singh
IMG Academy
2013
1
13
*Kelly Olynyk
Gonzaga
2013
2
44
*Mike Muscala
Bucknell
2012
1
17
*Tyler Zeller
North Carolina
2012
2
55
*Darius Johnson-Odom
Marquette
2011
1
26
*Jordan Hamilton
Texas
2011
2
57
*Tanguy Ngombo
Al-Rayyan Sports Club (Qatar)
2010
2
50
*Solomon Alabi
Florida State
2009
1
24
*Byron Mullens
Ohio State
2009
2
56
*Ahmad Nivins
Saint Joseph's
2008
2
51
*Shan Foster
Vanderbilt
2007
2
34
Nick Fazekas
Nevada
2007
2
50
Renaldas Seibutis
Maroussi BC (Greece)
2007
2
60
*Milovan Raković
KK Mega Vizura (Serbia)
2006
1
28
Maurice Ager
Michigan State
2006
2
58
*J.R. Pinnock
George Washington
2004
2
50
*Vassilis Spanoulis
Maroussi BC (Greece)
2003
1
29
Josh Howard
Wake Forest
2003
2
57
*Yuyang Xue
Hong Kong Flying Dragons (China)
2002
2
54
*Mladen Šekularac
KK FMP (Serbia)
2001
2
43
*Kyle Hill
Eastern Illinois
2001
2
53
*Kenny Satterfield
Cincinnati
2000
1
12
Etan Thomas
Syracuse
2000
2
31
*Dan Ianghi
Vanderbilt
20001
2
58
*Pete Mickeal
Cincinnati
* Denotes player traded on draft night
Players in bold denotes still active in the league
So just how bad are the Mavericks when it comes to selecting draft picks? Well, here is a recap of the past decade which I'm sure many fans would rather forget...
2013 Selected: Kelly Olynyk (13th overall) Traded down for: Lucas Nogueira (16th overall) and then Shane Larkin (18th overall) Snubbed: Giannis Antetokounmpo (15th overall), Dennis Schröder (17th overall), Gorgui Dieng (21st overall), Rudy Gobert (27th overall)
2012 Selected: Tyler Zeller (17th overall) Traded down for: Jared Cunningham (24th overall), Bernard James (33rd overall), and Jae Crowder (34th overall) Snubbed: Evan Fourner (20th overall), Draymond Green (35th overall), Khris Middlton (39th overall), Will Barton (40th overall)
2011 Selected: Jordan Hamilton (26th overall) Traded for: Rudy Fernandez (Denver Nuggets) Snubbed: Cory Joseph (29th overall), Jimmy Butler (30th overall), Chandler Parsons (38th overall), Isaiah Thomas (60th overall)
2009 Selected: Byron Mullens (24th overall) Traded down for: Rodrigue Beaubois (25th overall) Snubbed: Taj Gibson (26th overall), DeMarre Carroll (27th overall), Danny Green (46th overall), Patty Mills (55th overall)
2007 Selected: Nick Fazekas (34th overall) Snubbed: Glen Davis (35th overall), Josh McRoberts (37th overall), Marc Gasol (48th overall)
2006 Selected: Maurice Ager (28th overall) Snubbed: P.J. Tucker (35th overall), Paul Millsap (47th overall)
Will A.J. Hammons join the long list of failed prospects?
It's one thing to draft a bust pick but it's another to trade down for an even worse one. And through all the wheeling and dealing, the front office still managed to look past the hidden gems of the draft. On top of that, the notion of treating draft picks as simply leverage and trade assets has been the kryptonite to the franchise, and if things don't correct the course fast, then expect a lengthy and daunting rebuild before we can start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
Dallas (AP) - In one of the more head-scratching news of the offseason, Dallas Mavericks owner, Mark Cuban, has hired an unknown "NBA fanatic" from the other side of the world as an advisory to himself and General Manager, Donnie Nelson. Even more bizarre is that he's only known under the pseudonym, vtcha.
The Mavericks said vtcha will join the front office and offer consultation and propositions on the day-to-day basketball operations. "It's always great to have a second opinion and I think that he'll be able to see things that we may have missed in the past," Cuban said in a statement.
While not much is known about the mysterious man from down under, sources indicate that he was referred to Cuban by a mutual friend. When the two met, Cuban was reportedly so impressed by vtcha's method of analyzing advanced stats and applying them within the fantasy basketball realm that he immediately signed him onboard, hoping the same strategy can transition to the real deal.
Cuban has usually been the loudest voice on the player personnel side, and the results speak for themselves. "What's changed is that teams now use all the data available to them to make personnel decisions, so the market has become more efficient," Cuban told NBA.com. As advanced analytics are becoming more of the norm and changing the way the game is dissected, many other teams have also embraced the Moneyball movement, with the likes of the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, and Boston Celtics at the forefront.
The new look Mavs will be eager to get off to a strong start this season. | Bobby Karalla-USA TODAY Sports
With the Mavs 2016-17 schedule released on Thursday afternoon, Dallas will be entering their 37th season in the NBA with a home opener against the rising Minnesota Timberwolves, whom will be under newly appointed head coach, Tom Thibodeau. All eyes (and hype) will be on big man, Karl-Anthony Towns after his historical rookie campaign in which he unanimously won the Rookie of the Year Award.
Following the opener, the Mavericks travel to Memphis to face the Grizzlies, and former Mav, Chandler Parsons. Fortunately for Parsons, he has the luxury of playing against his former team at home as opposed to a would-be hostile crowd at the American Airlines Center.
Dallas get their first rival match-up of the season when they host the Rockets on January 7th. They then visit the defending Western Conference champion, Warriors, on January 13th; a homecoming for new Mavs, Harrison Barnes and Andrew Bogut, as they get their first look against their former team.
Mavs fans should also circle February 23rd. That’s when the San Antonio Spurs come to town, in a must-see nationally televised game.
On April 6th, Dallas will conclude their season, hosting against the Kevin Durant-less OKC Thunder.
Although they did not initially achieve what they wanted during free agency, the Mavericks did pick up some viable pieces in Harrison Barnes and Andrew Bogut, both of whom were key contributors of the 73-9 Warriors team. Barnes and Bogut essentially replace Chandler Parsons and Zaza Pachulia in the starting lineup with the latter giving the Mavs something they so desperately need; shot blocking. Bogut's rim protection, along with rookie A.J. Hammons, will definitely help boost a team that was ranked 29th in blocked shots last season.
In terms of the small forward position, the verdict is still out on whether Barnes will be an upgrade over Parsons. Undoubtedly, if Parsons was more durable then this wouldn't be debatable at all. However with the Mavs basically letting him walk free, Barnes will now be thrusted into a more focal role, as opposed to being just a spot-up shooter during his Warriors tenure, and has all the opportunity in the world to show what he's got. The question is whether he can take that next leap and become a more consistent scoring option especially with the odds against him after coming off a disastrous Playoff campaign and an Olympic cameo where he was ridiculed as Team USA's human victory cigar.
There will also be promising hopes of sophomore Justin Anderson this season who will look to build off a strong Playoff outing where he averaged 9.4 PPG in 18 minutes of action as well as putting a valiant effort in guarding Kevin Durant during the series. Furthermore, Dallas added additional outside shooting in Seth Curry whom also had an impressive run late last season, averaging 16.4 PPG (23/47 3PT) during Sacramento's final seven games. Ironically, the Mavericks have been coined the Warriors' B-team as a result of their off-season acquisitions.
The roster rounds out with some familiar faces returning in Deron Williams, Dwight Powell, and of course, Dirk Nowitzki, who was rumored to be a target for the Warriors at one point. But as the whole world already knows - he's not going anywhere.
Overall, you could say the Mavs have slightly improved on paper. However their playoff aspirations hinges greatly on both their top acquisitions of the summer; the health of Andrew Bogut and whether or not Harrison Barnes can be the Robin to Dirk Nowitzki.
Team Roster
#41 Dirk Nowitzki | PF DJK Würzburg (Germany)
Height: 7'0"
DOB: Jun 19, 1978 (38 years old)
Weight: 245 lbs
Drafted: 1998 (1st Rnd, 9th by MIL)
Nationality: German
Experience: 18 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
75
31.5
44.8
89.3
6.5
1.8
0.7
0.7
18.3
Career
1340
35.3
47.4
87.9
7.9
2.5
0.8
0.9
22.0
2016-17 Overview
Eighteen years into his career, and Dirk Nowitzki really isn't showing any signs of slowing down. Despite his age, the future hall of famer has missed just 14 games over his last three seasons, and remains a productive and consistent performer.
Though his age may catch up to him at some point, after re-signing a 2-yr, $50 million deal this summer, he'll look to continue leading the Mavs for yet another playoff push.
#34 Devin Harris | PG University of Wisconsin-Madison
Height: 6'3"
DOB: Feb 27, 1983 (33 years old)
Weight: 185 lbs
Drafted: 2004 (1st Rnd, 5th by WAS)
Nationality: American
Experience: 12 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
64
20.0
44.7
72.1
2.2
1.8
0.9
0.2
7.6
Career
781
26.2
43.7
79.4
2.3
4.4
1.1
0.2
11.7
2016-17 Overview
With the departure of Raymond Felton, Devin Harris will look to reprise his role as the primary backup to Deron Williams as opposed to last season where he was used more as a shooting guard.
Harris underwent surgery on his left great toe and left thumb back in May however is fully expected to be ready by training camp.
#5 J.J. Barea | PG/SG Northeastern University
Height: 6'0"
DOB: Jun 26, 1984 (32 years old)
Weight: 185 lbs
Drafted: 2006 (Undrafted)
Nationality: Puerto Rican
Experience: 10 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
74
22.5
44.6
77.1
2.1
4.1
0.4
0.0
10.9
Career
660
19.3
42.3
79.6
2.0
3.5
0.4
0.0
8.5
2016-17 Overview
Arguably the team's best scorer off the bench, it was evident when Deron Williams went down late last season, as Barea went on a tear, averaging 16.7 PPG in 16 starts.
Barea had arthroscopic surgery on his right medial meniscus the day after the season ended. Addtionally, he took a month off from basketball activities in order to heal his right groin which did not require surgery. Nonetheless, he is fully expected to be ready to go well in advance of training camp.
#7 Dwight Powell | PF/C Stanford University
Height: 6'11"
DOB: Jul 20, 1991 (25 years old)
Weight: 240 lbs
Drafted: 2014 (2nd Rnd, 45th by CHA)
Nationality: Canadian
Experience: 2 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
69
14.4
49.3
73.9
4.0
0.6
0.5
0.3
5.8
Career
98
12.5
48.8
74.3
3.3
0.5
0.5
0.3
5.0
2016-17 Overview
Fresh after re-signing a 4-yr, $37 million deal, Dwight Powell is expected to be the first big man off the bench in Rick Carlisle's rotation, backing veterans, Dirk Nowitzki and Andrew Bogut.
Powell improved his scoring, rebounding and assists during his second NBA season, while reducing his turnovers and personal fouls.
#23 Wesley Matthews | SG Marquette University
Height: 6'5"
DOB: Oct 14, 1986 (30 years old)
Weight: 220 lbs
Drafted: 2009 (Undrafted)
Nationality: American
Experience: 7 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
78
33.9
38.8
86.3
3.1
1.9
1.0
0.2
12.5
Career
519
32.5
43.5
82.9
3.1
2.0
1.1
0.2
14.0
2016-17 Overview
One season removed after tearing his ACL, Wesley Matthews surprisingly played 78 games last season and actually averaged more minutes than any of his teammates. It's safe to say he'll be 100% healthy heading into the 2016-17 season.
Matthews' outside shooting will be key in spacing the Mavs offense and allow Dirk more room to operate in the paint. Even owner, Mark Cuban, expects Matthews to improve his 3-point percentage next season and start creating his own shots.
#8 Deron Williams | PG University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Height: 6'3"
DOB: Jun 26, 1984 (32 years old)
Weight: 200 lbs
Drafted: 2005 (1st Rnd, 3rd by UTA)
Nationality: American
Experience: 11 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
65
32.4
41.4
86.9
2.9
5.8
0.9
0.2
14.1
Career
781
34.8
44.5
82.2
3.2
8.3
1.1
0.3
16.8
2016-17 Overview
No longer the All-Star caliber player that he was back in Utah, Deron Williams managed to only play 65 games last season due to various injuries.
There's no denying that D-Will can still ball, however health has become the lingering concern and it will undoubtedly be the biggest risk again this season. Consequently, the Mavs only offered him a 1-yr, $10 million deal, so he'll be looking to prove his worth.
Furthermore, Williams underwent surgery during the off-season to correct his sports hernia but is expected to be good to go for the start of the 2016-17 season.
#1 Justin Anderson | SF/SG University of Virginia
Height: 6'6"
DOB: Nov 19, 1993 (22 years old)
Weight: 228 lbs
Drafted: 2015 (1st Rnd, 21st by DAL)
Nationality: American
Experience: 1 year
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
55
11.8
40.6
80.0
2.4
0.5
0.3
0.5
3.8
Career
55
11.8
40.6
80.0
2.4
0.5
0.3
0.5
3.8
2016-17 Overview
Although he got off to a slow start, Justin Anderson really came into the picture later during the season when Chandler Parsons was injured. He notched his first double-double in a victory over Memphis with 19 PTS and 10 REB. But he wasn't done yet as he went on to average 12 PPG whilst average 21 MPG in Games 3, 4, and 5 of the first-round playoffs against OKC.
Now with a years' experience under his belt, Anderson will be the primary backup to starters, Harrison Barnes and Wesley Matthews, and will look to keep the momentum going. Mark Cuban even added that he believes Anderson could become an All-Star one day. "He's got to add to his game, and he will," Cuban said. "The sky's the limit, if he becomes a knock-down shooter and improves his ball-handling, he could be an All-Star."
#50 Salah Mejri | C Étoile Sportive du Sahel (Tunisia)
Height: 7'2"
DOB: Jun 15, 1986 (30 years old)
Weight: 245 lbs
Drafted: 2008 (Undrafted)
Nationality: Tunisian
Experience: 1 year
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
34
11.7
62.8
58.7
3.6
0.3
0.2
1.1
3.7
Career
34
11.7
62.8
58.7
3.6
0.3
0.2
1.1
3.7
2016-17 Overview
Native of Jendouba, Tunisia, Mejri is the first player of Tunisian decent to sign with an NBA team.
The 7'2" center will likely back Andrew Bogut in the rotation.
He underwent a minor knee procedure in the off-season but should have no trouble being ready for training camp.
#6 Andrew Bogut | C University of Utah
Height: 7'0"
DOB: Nov 28, 1984 (31 years old)
Weight: 260 lbs
Drafted: 2005 (1st Rnd, 1st by MIL)
Nationality: Australian
Experience: 11 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
70
20.7
62.7
48.0
7.0
2.3
0.5
1.6
5.4
Career
644
29.4
53.5
55.8
8.9
2.3
0.7
1.6
10.3
2016-17 Overview
Traded away as a result of the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, Andrew Bogut is poised to give the Mavs some new life from a defensive standpoint. Despite the injury concerns, Dallas will still be hoping that Bogut can be the team's defensive anchor, a void that's been missing since the departure of Tyson Chandler a few years back.
Although a knee sprain forced him to miss the rest of the NBA Finals, Bogut was able to recover in time for the Olympics and did not miss a beat as he helped guide Australia to fourth place overall.
#40 Harrison Barnes | SF University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Height: 6'9"
DOB: May 30, 1992 (24 years old)
Weight: 225 lbs
Drafted: 2012 (1st Rnd, 7th by GSW)
Nationality: American
Experience: 4 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
66
30.9
46.6
76.1
4.9
1.8
0.6
0.2
11.7
Career
307
28.1
44.6
73.9
4.6
1.5
0.7
0.2
10.1
2016-17 Overview
The odd man out. Harrison Barnes signed an offer sheet with the Mavericks after being let go by the very team that drafted him.
Now, no longer in the shadows of the Splash Brothers, Barnes will be asked to do a lot more scoring than he's ever done, with coach Rick Carlisle alluding that Barnes could also develop as a playmaker for the Mavericks.
Barnes will also look to be playing with a chip on his shoulder after a rather forgetful postseason and offseason, filled with criticism and mockery.
#20 A.J. Hammons | C Purdue University
Height: 7'0"
DOB: Aug 27, 1992 (24 years old)
Weight: 260 lbs
Drafted: 2016 (2nd Rnd, 46th by DAL)
Nationality: American
Experience: Rookie
STATS (COLLEGE)
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
33
24.6
59.2
70.9
8.2
1.1
0.3
2.5
15.0
Career
132
24.3
53.9
69.0
7.0
0.8
0.4
2.6
12.1
2016-17 Overview
At the conclusion of his senior season, A.J. Hammons was named the 2016 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, first-team All-Big Ten, and the Big Ten All-Defensive Team. He was named to the 35-man mid-season watchlist for the Naismith Trophy and was named one of the five finalists for the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award.
#30 Seth Curry | SG Duke University
Height: 6'2"
DOB: Aug 23, 1990 (26 years old)
Weight: 185 lbs
Drafted: 2013 (Undrafted)
Nationality: American
Experience: 3 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
44
15.7
45.5
83.3
1.4
1.5
0.5
0.1
6.8
Career
48
14.9
44.8
83.3
1.3
1.4
0.5
0.1
6.3
2016-17 Overview
Not merely the player as his older brother, Seth Curry can still nonetheless drain it from downtown. He was on fire towards the end of last season, knocking down 23/47 shots in the month of April and the Mavs will be hoping more of the same.
Curry is expected to play some point guard for the Mavericks and Mark Cuban said he views Curry as an "instant-offense guy" off the bench." "He can get buckets and he can shoot," Cuban said. "You know, he's been in some dysfunctional situations, and I think he'll be able to thrive with us. He can get his shot off, and he can do a lot more."
#4 Quincy Acy | PF/SF Baylor University
Height: 6'7"
DOB: Oct 6, 1990 (26 years old)
Weight: 240 lbs
Drafted: 2012 (2nd Rnd, 37th by TOR)
Nationality: American
Experience: 4 years
STATS
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2015-16 Season
59
14.8
55.6
73.5
3.2
0.5
0.5
0.4
5.2
Career
219
15.3
49.8
75.0
3.6
0.6
0.4
0.4
4.5
2016-17 Overview
Not afraid of doing the dirty work, Quincy Acy is projected as the backup for both forward spots. He'll be a nice locker room addition and his 'scrapper' mentality will surely be welcoming to the Mavs bench
#9 Nicolas Brussino | SF Regatas Corrientes (Argentina)
Height: 6'7"
DOB: Mar 2, 1993 (23 years old)
Weight: 195 lbs
Drafted: 2015 (Undrafted)
Nationality: Argentinian
Experience: Rookie
STATS (PRESEASON)
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2016-17
7
14.5
54.2
62.5
2.3
0.9
0.3
0.1
5.6
Career
2016-17 Overview
Brussino last played for Peñarol in the Argentine basketball league where he averaged 14.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.5 steals in 59 games during the 2015-16 season.
#10 Dorian Finney-Smith | SF University of Florida
Height: 6'8"
DOB: May 4, 1993 (23 years old)
Weight: 220 lbs
Drafted: 2016 (Undrafted)
Nationality: American
Experience: Rookie
STATS (PRESEASON)
GP
MPG
FG%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
2016-17
7
15.0
26.9
37.5
3.0
0.7
0.3
0.6
3.3
Career
2016-17 Overview
As a senior in 2015-16, Finney-Smith was named second-team All-SEC by the coaches and third-team All-SEC by the Associated Press. He was Florida's leading scorer (14.7) for the second straight season and top rebounder (8.3) for the third consecutive season.
Player Contracts
Key: Team Option, Player Option, Non-Guaranteed
PLAYER
2016-17
2017-18
2018-19
2019-20
2020-21
Dirk Nowitzki
$25,000,000
$25,000,000
Harrison Barnes
$22,116,750
$23,112,004
$24,107,258
$25,102,513
Wesley Matthews
$17,145,838
$17,884,175
$18,622,513
Andrew Bogut
$11,027,027
Deron Williams
$9,000,000
Dwight Powell
$8,314,607
$8,938,202
$9,561,798
$10,185,393
Devin Harris
$4,227,996
$4,402,546
J.J. Barea
$4,096,950
$3,903,900
$3,710,850
Seth Curry
$2,898,000
$3,028,410
Justin Anderson
$1,514,160
$1,579,440
$2,516,048
Quincy Acy
$1,050,961
$1,178,992
Salah Mejri
$874,636
$1,014,746
A.J. Hammons
$650,000
$905,249
$1,050,262
Nicolas Brussino
$543,471
$905,249
$1,050,262
Dorian Finney-Smith
$543,471
$905,249
$1,050,262
$109,064,260
$92,823,085
$61,738,705
$35,361,888
$0
Future Draft Pick Status
IN
OUT
2019 second round draft pick from Golden State
Dallas has the right to defer this pick conveyance to 2020
2018 second round draft pick to Milwaukee.
Protected for selections 31-55; if this pick falls within its protected range and is therefore not conveyed, then Dallas' obligation to Milwaukee will be extinguished.
2019 second round draft pick to Golden State
Protected for selections 31-55; if this pick falls within its protected range and is therefore not conveyed, then Dallas' obligation to Golden State will be extinguished.
Since the Cavaliers won their first NBA title back on June 19, NBA teams have undergone a number of changes over the long summer offseason. NBA.com's John Schuhmann will grade each franchise -- from the best team to the last -- in the inaugural Power Rankings for the 2016-17 NBA season.
* * *
NBA.com's Power Rankings, are just one man's opinion. If you have an issue with the rankings, or have a question or comment for John Schuhmann, send him an e-mail or contact him via Twitter.
1
Golden State(Last season: 73-9) Pace: 101.6 (2) OffRtg: 112.3 (1) DefRtg: 100.9 (5) NetRtg: +11.4 (2)
When you have the two recent MVP winners on the same team, both in their prime years, it's just simply unfair. Sure the Warriors may have lost some depth after capturing the best regular season record of all time but they added some very serviceable pieces in David West and Zaza Pachulia. Not to mention, they still have Iguodala and Shaun Livingston. Plus I'm sure opposing teams have a whole lot more to worry about - like how do you stop an offensive punch of Curry, Durant and Thompson?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Stephen Curry
Shaun Livingston
SG
Klay Thompson
Patrick McCaw
Ian Clark
SF
Kevin Durant
Andre Iguodala
PF
Draymond Green
David West
Kevin Looney
James Michael-McAdoo
C
Zaza Pachulia
Anderson Varejao
Damian Jones
JaVale McGee
2
Cleveland(Last season: 56-24) Pace: 95.5 (28) OffRtg: 108.1 (4) DefRtg: 102.2 (10) NetRtg: +5.9 (4)
Cleveland's 52-year championship drought finally came to an end when the King fulfilled his promise and brought one home last season in spectacular fashion, down 3-1. With most of the gang back together, the Cavs are almost a certain lock for another Finals appearance, barring any setbacks. The question is, can they overcome an even more loaded Warriors team if they were to meet again?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Kyrie Irving
Kay Felder
SG
J.R. Smith
Iman Shumpert
Jordan McRae
SF
LeBron James
Mike Dunleavy
Richard Jefferson
James Jones
PF
Kevin Love
Channing Frye
C
Tristan Thompson
Chris Andersen
3
San Antonio(Last season: 65-15) Pace: 95.9 (25) OffRtg: 108.5 (3) DefRtg: 96.5 (1) NetRtg: +12.0 (1)
So what do you do when the face of your franchise for the past two decades retires? Simple. You replace him with Pau Gasol, whom arguably was more productive last season. It's not rocket science to think that a gifted post-playmaker like Gasol will be a hand-and-glove fit in Popovich's ball-movement offense. Still, life in San Antonio just won't be the same without Timmy...
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Tony Parker
Patty Mills
Dejounte Murray
Nicolas Laprovittola
SG
Danny Green
Manu Ginobili
Jonathon Simmons
Bryn Forbes
SF
Kawhi Leonard
Kyle Anderson
Davis Bertans
PF
LaMarcus Aldridge
David Lee
C
Pau Gasol
Dewayne Dedmon
4
Indiana(Last season: 43-37) Pace: 99.0 (10) OffRtg: 102.4 (23) DefRtg: 100.4 (3) NetRtg: +2.0 (11)
If there's one team that could upset the Cavs in the East, it's definitely the Pacers. They made a shrewd of low-key moves, from acquiring Jeff Teague and Thaddeus Young, to signing big man Al Jefferson and veteran Aaron Brooks - the Pacers are loaded with depth. PG13 is as healthy as ever and the sky is the limit for Myles Turner who really blossomed last season, particularly in the Playoffs. This team is essentially the dark-horse to win it all, and if things really start clicking, watch out!
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Jeff Teague
Aaron Brooks
Joseph Young
SG
Monta Ellis
Rodney Stuckey
SF
Paul George
C.J. Miles
Glenn Robinson III
PF
Thaddeus Young
Lavoy Allen
Georges Niang
Rakeem Christmas
C
Myles Turner
Al Jefferson
Kevin Seraphin
5
L.A. Clippers(Last season: 52-28) Pace: 97.9 (17) OffRtg: 106.4 (6) DefRtg: 101.0 (6) NetRtg: +5.4 (5)
As great as the Clippers have been for the past few seasons, it's hard to imagine them ever getting to the Western Conference Finals, especially since they'll be rolling again with a similar roster as they have been for three straight seasons. With both Chris Paul and Blake Griffin having player options at the end of the season, will this be the last ride for Lob City?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Chris Paul
Austin Rivers
Raymond Felton
SG
J.J. Redick
Jamal Crawford
SF
Luc Mbah a Moute
Wesley Johnson
Paul Pierce
Alan Anderson
PF
Blake Griffin
Brandon Bass
Brice Johnson
C
DeAndre Jordan
Marreese Speights
Diamond Stone
6
Boston(Last season: 47-33) Pace: 101.3 (3) OffRtg: 103.9 (12) DefRtg: 100.8 (4) NetRtg: +3.2 (8)
Despite not making any meaningful trades with their plethora of draft picks, the Celtics still managed to have a successful offseason; namely drafting Jaylen Brown and acquiring All-Star, Al Horford, thus finally landing that front-court piece that has been alluding the team for years. Horford's presence should help shoulder some of the scoring load from Isaiah Thomas and allow Boston to make a deep Playoff run.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Isaiah Thomas
Marcus Smart
Demetrius Jackson
SG
Avery Bradley
Terry Rozier
Gerald Green
SF
Jae Crowder
Jaylen Brown
James Young
PF
Amir Johnson
Jonas Jerebko
Jordan Mickey
Ben Bentil
C
Al Horford
Kelly Olynyk
Tyler Zeller
7
Toronto(Last season: 54-26) Pace: 95.3 (29) OffRtg: 106.8 (5) DefRtg: 102.8 (11) NetRtg: +4.0 (7)
The Raptors were able to re-sign DeMar DeRozan, but in the process, lost Bismack Biyombo thanks to his outstanding performance during the postseason. With the rest of the conference rivals loading up, it will be a much tougher route for Toronto to make it back to the Eastern Conference Finals. How far will they go rests entirely on their big man, Jonas Valanciunas, who looks ready to finally break out.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Kyle Lowry
Cory Joseph
Delon Wright
Fred VanVieet
SG
DeMar DeRozan
Norman Powell
SF
DeMarre Carroll
Terrence Ross
Bruno Caboclo
PF
Jared Sullinger
Patrick Patterson
Pascal Siakam
C
Jonas Valanciunas
Lucas Nogueira
Jakob Poeltl
8
Utah(Last season: 40-40) Pace: 93.3 (30) OffRtg: 103.2 (17) DefRtg: 101.4 (7) NetRtg: +1.8 (12)
Despite Utah's strong defensive capabilities, the team struggled to score during stretches of last season. That should change with their recent additions of George Hill and Joe Johnson. The point guard position no longer needs to be addressed and the return of Dante Exum can only bolster their depth. While many expected this team to break out last season, could it be their year this time?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
George Hill
Dante Exum
Shelvin Mack
Raul Neto
SG
Rodney Hood
Alec Burks
SF
Gordon Hayward
Joe Johnson
Joe Ingles
PF
Derrick Favors
Trey Lyles
Boris Diaw
Joel Bolomboy
C
Rudy Gobert
Jeff Withey
9
Portland(Last season: 43-38) Pace: 98.3 (13) OffRtg: 106.2 (7) DefRtg: 105.7 (20) NetRtg: +0.5 (13)
Although many projected them to be a lottery team after gutting almost their entire core last season, Portland defied the odds and made it all the way to the Conference Semi-Finals. This time around, they're keeping their guys; locking up C.J. McCollum, Allen Crabbe, Meyers Leonard and Moe Harkless, along with newly acquisitions, Evan Turner and Festus Ezeli. However, will it be $350 million well spent?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Damian Lillard
Shabazz Napier
SG
C.J. McCollum
Allen Crabbe
Pat Connaughton
SF
Moe Harkless
Evan Turner
Jake Layman
PF
Al-Farouq Aminu
Meyers Leonard
Noah Vonleh
C
Mason Plumlee
Ed Davis
Festus Ezeli
10
Memphis(Last season: 42-38) Pace: 95.6 (27) OffRtg: 102.8 (21) DefRtg: 104.9 (19) NetRtg: -2.1 (20)
The Grizzlies successfully re-signed Mike Conley to a whopping 5-yr, $152 million deal, and at the same time, swooped Chandler Parsons, whom should address their outside shooting concerns. Big man, Marc Gasol, is returning from a foot injury that ruled him out last season, and the Grizzlies also have a new rookie coach in Dave Fizdale. They may start off slow, but nonetheless, expect this veteran ball club to give trouble to any team they face.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Mike Conley
Wade Baldwin
Andrew Harrison
SG
Tony Allen
Vince Carter
Troy Daniels
SF
Chandler Parsons
James Ennis
Troy Williams
PF
JaMychal Green
Zach Randolph
Deyonta Davis
Jarell Martin
C
Marc Gasol
Brandan Wright
11
New York(Last season: 32-49) Pace: 95.9 (24) OffRtg: 102.1 (25) DefRtg: 104.8 (18) NetRtg: -2.7 (22)
The good news for Knicks fans is that they got Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah. The bad news is that it's not 2011. Considering this team literally have no depth, health will be the ultimate factor in how far they go this season.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Derrick Rose
Brandon Jennings
Sasha Vujacic
SG
Courtney Lee
Justin Holiday
Ron Baker
SF
Carmelo Anthony
Lance Thomas
Mindaugas Kuzminskas
PF
Kristaps Porzingis
Maurice Ndour
C
Joakim Noah
Kyle O'Quinn
Guillermo Hernangomez
Marshall Plumlee
12
Oklahoma City(Last season: 54-26) Pace: 99.4 (8) OffRtg: 110.1 (2) DefRtg: 103.3 (12) NetRtg: +6.8 (3)
My condolences to the Thunder fan base. For what it's worth, Russell Westbrook did commit to a 3-yr extension, and given how he played when KD was out with a foot injury a few seasons back, he is going to be a bull in a China shop. Opposing defenders: best to steer clear of his path.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Russell Westbrook
Cameron Payne
Semaj Christon
SG
Victor Oladipo
Alex Abrines
Anthony Morrow
SF
Andre Roberson
Kyle Singler
Josh Huestis
PF
Domantas Sabonis
Ersan Ilyasova
Nick Collison
C
Steven Adams
Enes Kanter
Joffrey Lauvergne
13
Charlotte(Last season: 46-34) Pace: 97.7 (18) OffRtg: 104.7 (9) DefRtg: 101.9 (9) NetRtg: +2.9 (9)
Losing Jeremy Lin and Al Jefferson in free agency hurt the Hornet's bench but they are still very good defensively, especially with MKG fully recovered from his shoulder injury. Charlotte really excelled when Steve Clifford made use of the team's floor spacing, and if Roy Hibbert can regain any form he had back in Indiana, then this team could make some serious noise in the East.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Kemba Walker
Ramon Sessions
Brian Roberts
Aaron Harrison
SG
Nicolas Batum
Marco Belinelli
SF
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Jeremy Lamb
PF
Marvin Williams
Frank Kaminsky
Christian Wood
C
Roy Hibbert
Cody Zeller
Spencer Hawes
14
Chicago(Last season: 40-40) Pace: 98.3 (12) OffRtg: 101.6 (26) DefRtg: 103.6 (14) NetRtg: -2.1 (19)
Just when the Bulls looked like they were going to blow it all up, they went and signed the two least likely candidates for Fred Hoiberg's up-tempo style of play. It's an understatement to say they have some spacing concerns, and it's another to see how Rajon Rondo, Dwyane Wade, and Jimmy Butler will all fit in.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Rajon Rondo
Michael Carter-Williams
Jerian Grant
SG
Dwyane Wade
Denzel Valentine
Isaiah Canaan
SF
Jimmy Butler
Doug McDermott
Paul Zipser
PF
Taj Gibson
Nikola Mirotic
Bobby Portis
C
Robin Lopez
Cristiano Felicio
15
Atlanta(Last season: 48-32) Pace: 99.3 (9) OffRtg: 103.2 (15) DefRtg: 98.6 (2) NetRtg: +4.6 (6)
Unfortunately for the Hawks, they weren't able to retain Al Horford despite trading away Jeff Teague to create financial flexibility. Instead, they'll now roll with Dennis Schroder as their starting point guard and Dwight Howard as Horford's replacement. Hawks fans will be hoping Howard's homecoming could reignite the big man, reminiscence of his Orlando days.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Dennis Schroder
Malcolm Delaney
SG
Kyle Korver
Tim Hardaway Jr.
SF
Kent Bazemore
Thabo Sefolosha
Taurean Prince
DeAndre Bembry
PF
Paul Millsap
Mike Scott
Mike Muscala
Kris Humphries
C
Dwight Howard
Tiago Splitter
Walter Tavares
16
Detroit(Last season: 43-37) Pace: 97.5 (19) OffRtg: 103.2 (16) DefRtg: 103.4 (13) NetRtg: -0.2 (15)
Detroit really came into the scene last season when Andre Drummond finally took it up a notch and made his first All-Star appearance. With Playoff experiences now under their belts, this young, rising team will be looking to build off their successful season. Losing Reggie Jackson to begin the season will be no easy task however.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Reggie Jackson
Ish Smith
Beno Udrih
SG
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Darrun Hilliard
Michael Gbinije
SF
Marcus Morris
Stanley Johnson
Reggie Bullock
PF
Tobias Harris
Jon Leuer
Henry Ellenson
C
Andre Drummond
Aron Baynes
Boban Marjanovic
17
Houston(Last season: 39-41) Pace: 100.0 (7) OffRtg: 105.2 (8) DefRtg: 106.1 (22) NetRtg: -0.8 (16)
The Rockets were a complete disaster last season, from the firing of Kevin McHale, to the failed trade of Ty Lawson, and the falling out with Dwight Howard. The good news is they still have James Harden and made some decent signings in Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon, both whom should be terrific fits in new coach, Mike D'Antoni's high-octane offense. The problem for this team still lies on the other end. Sure they will score a lot, but how will they stop the opponent from scoring on them?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Patrick Beverley
Tyler Ennis
SG
James Harden
Eric Gordon
SF
Trevor Ariza
Corey Brewer
K.J. McDaniels
Sam Dekker
PF
Ryan Anderson
Montrezl Harrell
Kyle Wiltjer
C
Clint Capela
Nene Hilario
Chinanu Onuaku
18
Denver(Last season: 33-48) Pace: 98.1 (15) OffRtg: 102.8 (20) DefRtg: 106.5 (25) NetRtg: -3.7 (26)
Denver is one of those teams that can go anywhere from lottery to a Playoff birth. They have an incredible depth of talent and a very attractive young core featuring Emmanuel Mudiay, Gary Harris, Jusuf Nurkic, and Nikola Jokic. With so many other pieces available, it would not be surprising to see them make a splash before the trade deadline.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Emmanuel Mudiay
Jameer Nelson
SG
Gary Harris
Will Barton
Jamal Murray
Malik Beasley
SF
Danilo Gallinari
Wilson Chandler
Juan Hernangomez
PF
Nikola Jokic
Kenneth Faried
Darrell Arthur
C
Jusuf Nurkic
19
Dallas(Last season: 41-39) Pace: 96.6 (22) OffRtg: 104.7 (10) DefRtg: 104.3 (16) NetRtg: +0.5 (14)
You have to feel sorry for Dirk Nowitzki. I mean the man has taken pay cut after pay cut in order for the franchise to go after the big names in free agency. Unfortunately, Dallas failed again and are now stuck with Golden State's "leftovers". For Nowitzki, however, at least he got paid this time.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Deron Williams
J.J. Barea
Devin Harris
SG
Wesley Matthews
Seth Curry
SF
Harrison Barnes
Justin Anderson
Nicolas Brussino
Dorian Finney-Smith
PF
Dirk Nowitzki
Dwight Powell
Quincy Acy
C
Andrew Bogut
Salah Mejri
A.J. Hammons
20
Minnesota(Last season: 28-52) Pace: 97.4 (20) OffRtg: 103.9 (13) DefRtg: 107.0 (27) NetRtg: -3.1 (23)
There is no other team right now with a higher ceiling than the Timberwolves and they're about to get a whole lot better with defensive-minded head coach, Tom Thibodeau, calling the shots. Last season, Karl-Anthony Towns proved that he was the real deal and both Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine showed their scoring capabilities. The inexperience in the team could cost them a few games but it's not far-fetched to think that they could make their very first playoff appearance since 2004. Take a seat folks, we're about to watch a dynasty in the making...
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Ricky Rubio
Kris Dunn
Tyus Jones
John Lucas
SG
Zach LaVine
Brandon Rush
SF
Andrew Wiggins
Shabazz Muhammad
PF
Gorgui Dieng
Nemanja Bjelica
Adreian Payne
C
Karl-Anthony Towns
Cole Aldrich
Jordan Hill
Nikola Pekovic
21
Washington(Last season: 39-41) Pace: 100.5 (5) OffRtg: 102.8 (19) DefRtg: 103.7 (15) NetRtg: -0.9 (17)
An underwhelming offseason for a team that under-performed last season. Perhaps Scott Brooks could change their fortunes or will Bradley Beal finally stay healthy for a full season after signing a max deal? Should they make the playoffs, consider it a successful season.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
John Wall
Trey Burke
SG
Bradley Beal
Marcus Thornton
Tomas Satoransky
SF
Otto Porter
Kelly Oubre
Danuel House
PF
Markieff Morris
Andrew Nicholson
C
Marcin Gortat
Ian Mahinmi
Jason Smith
Daniel Ochefu
22
Sacramento(Last season: 32-48) Pace: 102.1 (1) OffRtg: 103.8 (14) DefRtg: 106.4 (24) NetRtg: -2.7 (21)
The Kings made some under-the-radar moves this offseason, signing veterans Arron Afflalo, Matt Barnes, and Anthony Tolliver. It's clear they're pushing for more spacing in order to allow DeMarcus Cousins room to operate in the paint. Head coach, Dave Joerger, seems to already be getting along with Cousins, so fans can only hope that management doesn't do anything stupid to ruin that relationship.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Darren Collison
Ty Lawson
SG
Arron Afflalo
Ben McLemore
Garrett Temple
Malachi Richardson
SF
Rudy Gay
Omri Casspi
PF
Matt Barnes
Anthony Tolliver
Skal Labissiere
C
DeMarcus Cousins
Willie Cauley-Stein
Kosta Koufos
Georgios Papagiannis
23
New Orleans(Last season: 30-50) Pace: 98.9 (11) OffRtg: 103.0 (18) DefRtg: 106.6 (26) NetRtg: -3.6 (25)
The Pelicans would've ranked higher if it weren't for starters, Jrue Holiday and Tyreke Evans, expected begin the season on the sidelines. Health has plagued the New Orleans team for the past few seasons, including their franchise player, Anthony Davis, who has yet to play in a full season. One can only imagine just how good they truly can be if everyone was on the court.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Jrue Holiday
Tim Frazier
Langston Galloway
SG
E'Twaun Moore
Buddy Hield
Lance Stephenson
SF
Tyreke Evans
Solomon Hill
Quincy Pondexter
Dante Cunningham
PF
Anthony Davis
Terrence Jones
Chuck Diallo
C
Omer Asik
Alexis Ajinca
24
Milwaukee(Last season: 33-47) Pace: 96.5 (23) OffRtg: 102.3 (24) DefRtg: 105.7 (21) NetRtg: -3.4 (24)
The Bucks really took the league by surprise when they drafted Thon Maker, whom many projected to be a late first-round pick. Although this team has all the makings to be a match-up nightmare with their freakish length and size, that all came crashing down when they lost arguably their best floor spacer, and leading scorer last season, in Khris Middleton, whom will be sidelined for six months due to a hamstring injury.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Matthew Dellavedova
Malcolm Brogdon
SG
Khris Middleton
Tony Snell
Rashad Vaughn
Jason Terry
SF
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Steve Novak
PF
Jabari Parker
Mirza Teletovic
Michael Beasley
Thon Maker
C
Miles Plumlee
Greg Monroe
John Henson
25
Phoenix(Last season: 22-58) Pace: 100.6 (4) OffRtg: 99.4 (28) DefRtg: 107.3 (28) NetRtg: -8.0 (28)
Just when they thought they had solved their back-court logjam a few seasons ago, along came Devin Booker who really shined when Eric Bledsoe went down. Much like the Nuggets, the Suns have an incredible amount of potential talent on their roster rounded out by some proven veterans. With a drama-free offseason, expect the Suns to bounce back after last season's catastrophe.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Eric Bledsoe
Brandon Knight
Tyler Ulis
SG
Devin Booker
Leandro Barbosa
John Jenkins
SF
T.J. Warren
P.J. Tucker
PF
Jared Dudley
Marquese Chriss
Dragan Bender
C
Tyson Chandler
Alex Len
Alan Williams
26
Miami(Last season: 47-33) Pace: 95.8 (26) OffRtg: 104.2 (11) DefRtg: 101.5 (8) NetRtg: +2.7 (10)
After calling Dwyane Wade's bluff, I'm sure Pat Riley and the rest of the world were left gobsmacked when he signed with the Bulls. Things will definitely not feel right knowing that Wade County is no more. As if that wasn't enough, Pat Riley then recently addressed Chris Bosh's health, stating that his career in South Beach was over. Miami's lineup looks great defensively, but they'll have a hard time scoring, especially losing their top two scorers from last season. It remains to be seen whether Dragic and Whiteside can carry the load, or if Dion Waiters can fill in some big shoes left behind.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Goran Dragic
Tyler Johnson
SG
Josh Richardson
Dion Waiters
Wayne Ellington
Rodney McGruder
SF
Justise Winslow
James Johnson
Luke Babbitt
PF
Derrick Williams
Josh McRoberts
Udonis Haslem
Chris Bosh
C
Hassan Whiteside
Willie Reed
27
L.A. Lakers(Last season: 16-64) Pace: 98.0 (16) OffRtg: 98.8 (29) DefRtg: 109.5 (30) NetRtg: -10.7 (30)
With the Kobe farewell tour done and dusted, the Lakers can finally go into full rebuild mode. That is, until they signed veterans Timofey Mozgov and Luol Deng each to a 4-yr deal. While the latter may stunt the playing time of second overall pick, Brandon Ingram, Deng will, without a doubt, be a great mentor for the rookie, much like he was for Jimmy Butler back in Chicago. This season we get to see Luke Walton's true worth as a head coach and whether or not he was simply coasting on a talented Warriors team. Furthermore, the Lakers have another top 3 protected pick in the upcoming draft, so if the wheels start to fall off during the course of the season, expect the tank to be on.
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
D'Angelo Russell
Jose Calderon
Marcelo Huertas
SG
Lou Williams
Jordan Clarkson
Nick Young
SF
Luol Deng
Brandon Ingram
Metta World Peace
PF
Julius Randle
Larry Nance
Thomas Robinson
C
Timofey Mozgov
Tarik Black
Ivica Zubac
28
Orlando(Last season: 34-46) Pace: 98.2 (14) OffRtg: 102.5 (22) DefRtg: 104.5 (17) NetRtg: -2.0 (18)
And the award for most bizarre moves this offseason goes to the Magic. They traded away promising young guard, Victor Oladipo, for Serge Ibaka, and in doing so, forced Aaron Gordon, whom mind you isn't much of an outside threat, to the three spot. They then signed Jeff Green and Bismack Biyombo, to an already crowded front-court. Oh well, as a consolation prize, Orlando did hire a very good head coach in Frank Vogel, so maybe he could work his magic - get it?
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Elfrid Payton
D.J. Augustin
C.J. Watson
SG
Evan Fournier
Jodie Meeks
C.J. Wilcox
SF
Aaron Gordon
Mario Hezonja
Damjan Rudez
PF
Serge Ibaka
Jeff Green
Arinze Onuaku
C
Nikola Vucevic
Bismack Biyombo
Stephen Zimmerman
29
Brooklyn(Last season: 21-59) Pace: 97.3 (21) OffRtg: 100.9 (27) DefRtg: 108.3 (29) NetRtg: -7.5 (27)
You know the saying where if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say it at all? Well, let's just leave it at that..
Projected Depth Chart
STARTER
2ND
3RD
4TH
PG
Jeremy Lin
Greivis Vasquez
Isaiah Whitehead
SG
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
Randy Foye
Joe Harris
Caris LeVert
SF
Bojan Bogdanovic
Sean Kilpatrick
PF
Trevor Booker
Luis Scola
Chris McCullough
Anthony Bennett
C
Brook Lopez
Justin Hamilton
30
Philadelphia(Last season: 10-70) Pace: 100.3 (6) OffRtg: 96.4 (30) DefRtg: 106.3 (23) NetRtg: -9.9 (29)
Just when things were looking to be sunny in Philly, down goes their number one draft pick. Losing their primary ball-handler definitely puts a dampen into the Sixers team. And who knows how long Ben Simmons will be out for. Knowing the Sixers, they may even elect to sit him for the entire season despite a recovery time-frame of three months. Oh yeah, there's also another problem with this team - like who will be the odd man out in their ongoing front-court logjam?
On April 20, 2016, the Timberwolves hired Tom Thibodeau as coach and president of basketball operations. Thibodeau was the most coveted coach on the market, and will no doubt, bring an unparalleled intensity and hard-driving approach to a franchise that has not made the playoffs since 2004. Thibodeau's defensive mindset will be sure to catapult a young Wolves team that was ranked 28th last season in defensive efficiency.
In the draft, Minnesota had the 5th overall pick and drafted Providence guard, Kris Dunn. While there was overwhelming speculation that the trade would be flipped in exchange for Bulls All-Star, Jimmy Butler, due to Thibodeau's ties with the former player, Dunn was ultimately kept. While Dunn was limited during the Summer League because of a concussion, he was brilliant in his two game appearances, averaging an impressive 24 points while shooting 54.3% from the field.
In free agency, the Timberwolves made some low-key signings to bolster their frontcourt depth, adding Cole Aldrich and Jordan Hill. They also signed Warriors swingman, Brandon Rush, in an effort to address the 3-point shooting, which was a concern last year after averaging only 33.8% as a team.
Owner Glen Taylor said Nikola Pekovic will not play for the Wolves this season as a result of his ongoing foot problem and it is possible the team may buy him out. Pekovic has one year and $12 million left on his deal and there is also speculation that he may never play in the NBA again.
Furthermore, probably one of the more bigger storylines during the offseason was Kevin Garnett announcing his retirement after 21 seasons in the NBA. Garnett, 40, had one year left on his deal, worth $8 million, but agreed to a contract buyout with the Timberwolves. Regarded as one of the greatest two-way big men ever, Garnett averaged 17.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.4 blocks for his career.
What happened the last time these two teams met?
Last season, Dallas swept the series 4-0, although this time around, things will be drastically different now that Thibodeau is at the helm. In the four outings last season, Dirk Nowitzki was the Mavs' leading scorer, averaging 17.3 points and connecting 2.7 from deep. As for the T'Wolves, Andrew Wiggins fared well, scoring 22.3 points while shooting 47.9% from the field.
What will be the biggest matchup?
Without a doubt, it'll be the showdown between Harrison Barnes and Andrew Wiggins. Both players are very athletic and versatile yet still have plenty of room to grow.
Barnes has stated previously that he's expecting to feel comfortable in the high-post during the season and even veteran, Dirk Nowitzki, has expressed that the young forward has the work ethic to develop into a 'great all-around player'. "I already heard all summer long whenever he was here, he's in the gym all the time," said Nowitzki. "A lot of guys come here, sign here or get traded here and they're telling me they're gym rats, but I haven't really seen many in my 18 years, but he's the one guy that walks the walk. He's there in the morning, we're working out with the guys, he goes back at night and he wants to get better."
Likewise, Wiggins has also been working on his game during the summer, with his main focus in improving his 3-point shot and ball handling. New coach, Tom Thibodeau, has even gone far as challenging the entire Wolves team to improve drastically on the defensive end. "He impressed me the way he scored against us when I was still coaching." Thibodeau said of Wiggins. "He made it look easy. I think the challenge - not only him but for his teammates - is there's going to have to be dramatic improvement defensively. You have to make a commitment in that area."
Mavericks: None Timberwolves: Nikola Pekovic - out (right Achilles surgery)
How to watch
Opening night is on Monday, October 31st, on Operation Sports and FSSW. For those outside the Dallas market, NBA League Pass (online or on your TV) and 2K TV will have the game.
10-16-2016, 05:26 AM
