The Dallas Mavericks seem to have their offseason plans in check, as they signed D'Angelo Russell and Dante Exum to help solidify their backcourt. Dallas desperately needed a point guard to help run the offense with Kyrie Irving being out for an extended period of time after tearing his ACL back in March. Now, the team can focus on their Summer League season, as Cooper Flagg will make his Mavericks debut next week against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Another player who will have an impact this summer is Melvin Ajinca. He was a standout last summer, as he caught fans' attention with his level of play out of the gates, but ultimately fizzled out and didn't make Dallas' regular season roster. He is expected to get another chance this year, with him once again making the Summer Roster. However, fans should be excited, as both Flagg and Ajinca will be unexpectedly accompanied by Jamarion Sharp to hold down the paint, as Dallas signed him to their Summer League Roster.
Sharp, too, stood out last summer. He performed well defensively and was the team's anchor inside at Summer League. The 7-foot-5 center recorded three rebounds and four blocks in the Mavs' first Summer League game last year. In his final outing, he upped his numbers, dropping 10 rebounds and five blocks. Sharp continued to impress fans during the preseason but was later released and signed to the Texas Legends.
Sharp gets second chance to earn a two-way spot with Mavericks
Last preseason, Sharp also impressed with his defensive skills during his short stint with Dallas. He recorded six points, five rebounds, and four blocks during the team's second preseason game. Sharp became known for his rim-protecting skills and aggressive play inside the paint. He made a case to be signed to the Mavs' final roster spot. Sharp was later signed to the G League, though, and Mavericks fans stayed intrigued with his games as he played for the Legends in Frisco.
Sharp averaged 6.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game in 29 games with the Legends. He had his best game on New Year's Eve when he poured in a double-double with 13 points and 15 rebounds. Sharp also recorded four blocks. He further impressed in his final game, as Sharp was close to a double-double with eight points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks.
So, it's obvious why Dallas should consider Sharp for their final open two-way spot. He is a beast down low and can replace Dereck Lively II or Daniel Gafford if injuries were to occur again. He can also be the team's security blanket in the future. Dallas is set with Lively II as their center, but Sharp gives the team incredible size and a different look.
Sharp will need to prove himself once again if he is to be given the final open two-way spot. This means he must show improvement from last summer. He must also demonstrate a connection with Cooper Flagg. Flagg is excellent in pick-and-roll situations, and this is something that could work in Sharp's favor. This could create easy lobs and opportunities for Sharp to show his dominance at the rim.
It's also possible to imagine a scenario where Dallas signs Sharp to their roster if they were to trade Dwight Powell or not bring back Kai Jones. Yet, most signs point to him possibly vying for one of the two-way spots. If he proves himself once again, Sharp might have competition. Dallas has already signed Ryan Nembhard and Miles Kelly to two-way deals, and they are clearly very strategic when signing players to their two-way contracts.
Yet, whatever the case may be, Sharp will have another opportunity to earn himself a role with the Mavs. Last season, Dallas dealt with numerous injuries, especially with their frontcourt. This is where Sharp could come in.
So, with the Summer League beginning soon, Sharp has a chance to win over the organization once again. It all begins next week with him once again being on the team's Summer League roster. Mavs fans will have plenty to look forward to next week, as Sharp returns and Cooper Flagg makes his summer debut.