With the NBA offseason officially underway, the Dallas Mavericks are among several teams looking to improve their roster before the upcoming season. Last season, the Mavericks surprised many by making it to the NBA Finals, only to lose to the Boston Celtics in five games.
Despite falling short of a championship, there were many positives for the Mavericks to take into the offseason. One standout is the progression of Dereck Lively II, who not only made an immediate impact but also showed potential as a floor spacer with his developing 3-point shot.
As the Mavericks explore potential upgrades, one player likely on the move is longtime Maverick Tim Hardaway Jr. Following a disappointing postseason, rumors suggest his departure is almost inevitable.
### Matisse Thybulle: The Perfect Trade Target to Bolster Mavericks’ Defense
The Portland Trail Blazers are a team to watch for potential deals with the Mavericks. The Blazers, entering a rebuilding phase, might look to shop forward Jerami Grant, a player Dallas has shown interest in as the perfect third star to enhance their playoff chances.
If discussions with Portland continue, another player who could be included in a potential trade is Matisse Thybulle. Thybulle, who has deep connections with Dallas, agreed to a three-year contract last summer before the Trail Blazers matched Dallas’ offer sheet, keeping him in Portland.
Thybulle would have been a crucial addition to the Mavericks’ Finals run had he joined the roster. Known for his defensive prowess, Thybulle is a multiple-time All-NBA Defensive Second Team player and has improved his offensive game. His limited offensive repertoire led to his departure from the 76ers, but his time in Portland has seen him grow, shooting close to a career-high 34.6 percent from three-point range last season.
In Dallas, Thybulle would thrive on both ends of the floor. He would bolster the Mavericks’ wing rotation and become one of their top defensive players. Offensively, he would benefit from wide-open looks created by Luka Doncic drives and Kyrie Irving dishes, potentially seeing another offensive jump similar to his initial stint in Portland.
Thybulle would address many of Dallas’ needs if acquired this offseason. The Mavericks have yet to make a move, but indications suggest this won’t last much longer. Thybulle’s desire to join the Mavericks last offseason could become a reality this summer.
Dallas’ defense excelled towards the end of last season and into the playoffs, and adding a player like Thybulle could help sustain this defensive dominance. As the offseason progresses, the Mavericks have a clear path to rejuvenate their defense with the right moves.