The Dallas Mavericks, believe it or not, failed to sign a top-tier player in free agency again this summer. Just because they missed out on their initial list of targets, though, hardly means the Mavericks didn't make a move that stands to make a major two-way impact both next season and going forward.
During a Wednesday appearance on ESPN U, Dallas owner Mark Cuban hinted that recent trade acquisition Delon Wright would start at point guard in 2019-20, according to Rotoworld.
Cuban's justification behind that likelihood was Wright's ability to check dynamic opposing guards, a role for which primary ball handler and reigning Rookie of the Year Luka Doncic is woefully ill-suited. At 6-foot-5 with quick feet, innate instincts, and a dogged disposition, Wright has indeed established himself as an impactful perimeter defender over the first four years of his career, able to defend point guards, shooting guards, and even smaller wings on occasion.
His offensive profile makes him a snug fit next to Doncic, too. An unremarkable playmaker and ineffective off-dribble shooter, Wright is at his best attacking a scrambling defense off the catch and spotting up for open threes. Playing next to talents the like of Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis, those opportunities should be in frequent supply for the 26-year-old.
Wright, under contract for $29 million over the next three seasons, was acquired by the Mavericks last month in a sign-and-trade with the Memphis Grizzlies. He averaged 8.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game last season while splitting time between the Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors.
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