Mavericks’ perfect candidate for final roster spot unexpectedly reveals himself
The Dallas Mavericks are coming off a thrilling 120-118 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night, showcasing what this team is capable of when nearly at full strength, only missing Kyrie Irving and P.J. Washington (from the starting lineup). While Mavericks fans were treated to a nail-biter, the real show came courtesy of Anthony Davis. The superstar forward delivered an absolute clinic, finishing with 34 points and 15 rebounds. However, in true AD fashion, his performance came with a battle scar—four stitches above his right eye. This, of course, is all part of the Anthony Davis experience, one that Mavs fans have been hesitant to fully embrace.
The biggest moment of the night? Davis calling game. With the clock winding down, Davis rose up and buried the game-winning shot at the buzzer, sending the Hawks home in heartbreak. The Mavericks secured a dramatic victory, giving their fans a much-needed moment of excitement in a season filled with ups and downs. It was a reminder of just how dominant Davis can be when he’s locked in—a force of nature capable of taking over any game.
With only a handful of regular-season games remaining, Dallas is locked in a fight to secure the 9-seed and at least one play-in game. At this point, the Mavs aren’t playing for much more than pride and a chance to restore some hope in the fan base after what has been, in many ways, a nightmare season.
That brings us to an interesting question circulating among Mavs fans: Should the team bring back former first-round pick Dennis Smith Jr.?
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Mavericks should sign Dennis Smith Jr. ASAP
The speculation started when Smith Jr. was spotted in the tunnel at a recent Mavericks game. While nothing substantial has materialized regarding a reunion, the idea is worth exploring. Dallas has an open roster spot that they can fill beginning on April 10, and they could also explore cutting Dante Exum to create an additional spot. Smith Jr. would be an outstanding fit if the Mavs were to sign him, and fans’ heads have been spinning ever since he was spotted at the game on Wednesday night.
Defensively, Smith Jr. would be an immediate upgrade. His on-ball defense has improved tremendously since his first stint in Dallas, and his relentless energy could provide a spark for a team that has struggled to contain opposing guards. Offensively, Mavs fans still remember his fearless drives to the rim and tough finishes. While he’s never been a high-volume shooter, his ability to penetrate and create could be valuable in a backcourt that is currently thin due to injuries.
With Kyrie sidelined, Dallas’ guard depth has been stretched thin, and the team is lacking players who can score, make plays, and defend at a high level. Smith Jr. checks at least two of those three boxes, and while he’s not the same electric rookie who once took Dallas by storm, he still has plenty to offer.
