Dallas Mavericks: Best and worst moves from 2023 NBA offseason

Worst offseason moves made by Dallas Mavericks

The Mavs have had a pretty solid overall offseason. However, there were a couple of moves that could be second-guessed in the long run. Let’s look at both of those, with the first of which involving a decision made in the 2023 NBA Draft.

Drafting Dereck Lively II

While I love the potential that Dereck Lively II carries as a prospect coming out of Duke, there’s a very real chance that he simply isn’t ready to contribute at a high level for the Mavs this season. If that were to happen, it’s only natural to question the selection.

Dallas entered the offseason looking for players that could contribute and help elevate the supporting cast around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. I’m not really sure if Lively accomplishes that in the foreseeable future.

Kyrie Irving extension 

This is probably something that goes back to the initial trade of Kyrie Irving but this is something that may not be as popular considering the context. The Mavs had to do it but hopefully, the three-year, $126 million contract extension doesn’t age poorly.

Kyrie is an extremely talented player. When he’s engaged and fully committed, Kyrie is one of the best players in the NBA. If that’s the player the Mavs can get over the course of the season, Dallas will certainly be improved this season. The problem is, that’s not a guarantee for Kyrie.