Since trading Luka Dončić to the Lakers on February 1, the Dallas Mavericks have faced a glaring hole at the guard position. While Kyrie Irving remains on the roster, he couldn’t shoulder both his and Dončić’s responsibilities and after Irving’s ACL tear in March, the need for additional backcourt help has become even more urgent.
Head coach Jason Kidd recently addressed this issue on the DLLS Mavs Podcast, acknowledging that Dallas is actively looking to add guard depth through trades or free agency. He hinted that the team may bring in a guard who can start while Irving is out but may see reduced minutes upon his return.
However, Kidd’s comment raises concerns about the Mavericks potentially making the same mistake they did last offseason settling for an average or low-impact signing. The team cannot afford to rely on marginal upgrades or veteran-minimum deals if they hope to remain competitive. Last year’s addition of Spencer Dinwiddie on a minimum deal, while solid in minutes played, didn’t provide the level of production the team needed.
The Mavericks must target a guard who not only fills the void during Irving’s absence but can also contribute meaningfully when he returns. Depth options like Brandon Williams or Jaden Hardy are unlikely to be enough until Irving’s projected return in early 2026.
If free agency or trade options fall short, Dallas might consider moving into the back half of the first round in the NBA Draft to secure a young, cost-controlled point guard. With Cooper Flagg now part of the franchise’s future, the Mavericks have to balance immediate contention with long-term planning.
Kidd’s comments may be early, but they reinforce the critical need for Dallas to avoid half-measures. To compete for a title with Irving and Anthony Davis leading the charge, the Mavericks must pursue a high-impact guard settling simply isn’t an option.
