Big Fish and Bargains For the Dallas Mavericks in 2019 Free Agency

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – MAY 09: Jimmy Butler #23 of the Philadelphia 76ers points against the Toronto Raptors in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at the Wells Fargo Center on May 9, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Raptors 112-101. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

8.) Jimmy Butler (18.7 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 4 apg, 1.9 spg, 46.2 fg%, 34.7 3p%, 85.5 ft%)

Jimmy Butler is one of two players on this list (the other being Khris Middleton) that will be the quintessential plug-in on both sides of the basketball for the Dallas Mavericks. On offense, Jimmy Butler may not be a deadeye sharpshooter but he keeps opposing defenses honest with above average three-point shooting and efficient scoring from the field.

Additionally, Butler’s high basketball IQ and ball-handling capabilities in the pick-and-roll would create offensive opportunities through his slashing and penetration, or open shots for knock-down shooters (or himself).

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The four-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA wing has also proven to be a go-to and clutch scorer, alleviating the offensive load for both Kristaps and Luka. The defensive side of the ball is where Jimmy Butler has made his name and money; the four-time All-Defensive Team wing is a clamp-down perimeter defender who can create the disruptions and turnovers the Mavericks’ defense has been missing. Moreover, Butler’s solid frame and quick instincts have underscored his strong rebounding skills.

Although I see Jimmy Butler staying in Philadelphia, his two-way All-Star capabilities cannot be ignored and thus the Mavericks should not shy away from targeting Butler.

Related Story. 5 excellent free agent expenditures for the Mavs. light

9.) Khris Middleton (18.3 ppg, 6 rpg, 4.3 apg, 44.1 fg%, 37.8 3p%, 83.7 ft%)

The acquisition of Khris Middleton uniquely fills deficiencies on both sides of the ball for the Mavericks. The first-time NBA All-Star is a deadly shooter from the field who does not need to dominate the ball to be effective offensively; yet, Middleton has showcased his ability to periodically create his own shot and assist others within the flow of the offense.

Additionally, his lengthy frame provides advantages during inside mismatches on offense where Middleton has shown the proclivity to rise and shoot over shorter defenders. On the defensive side of the ball, his 6’8” height and 6’11” wingspan played in an important role as the second-best wing defender on the best defensive team this year.

Middleton’s strong rebounding and defensive versatility in effortless switching on to 1s, 2s, and 3s is a nightmare for opposing players. Despite strong indications of him staying in Milwaukee this offseason, Khris Middleton’s sharpshooting, periodic shot creation, and defensive capabilities will alleviate offensive and defensive pressures for both Kristaps Porzingis and Luka Doncic- and the Dallas Mavericks should not waver in targeting him.

Next. Who's the bigger risk to re-sign: Porzingis or Zeke?. dark

What do you think? Who are you targeting in free agency?

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