3 Mavericks Playing Their Final Postseason in Dallas

Jaden Hardy

When the dynamic guard Jaden Hardy fell to the Dallas Mavericks in the second-round of the 2022 NBA Draft, Mavs fans rejoiced. Hardy was seen as a first-round pick in most mock drafts and they were able to land him with the 37th overall pick.

And Hardy showed some promise in his rookie season. When things got out of hand towards the end of the season for the Mavs, the rookie showed impressive scoring and shooting ability. He finished with over 40% from three and averaged 8.8 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 14.8 minutes per game.

There was widespread expectation that Hardy was going to take a big step forward in his second season but that didn't come to fruition. His numbers fell across the board and he averaged 7 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 13.1 minutes per game in 71 appearances. He was less efficient from the field as well.

Hardy is still only 21 years old. He has plenty of potential. But he will likely never show that potential in Dallas behind Doncic and Irving. He will always be limited to a small role as a 6'4 score-first guard with a questionable defense.

Keeping him around and guaranteeing his contract for next season has some value for the Mavericks. But, if he has some trade value on the market, the Mavericks should move him for a better-fitting veteran, or use him as a sweetener in potential trades.

The Mavericks currently have the fifth-best odds (+850) in the Western Conference to make the NBA Finals. If you think this is the season for Dallas, then head over to FanDuel Sportsbook, claim your sign-up offer of $200 in bonus bets after your first winning wager, and back the Mavs.

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