The NBA offseason is fully underway, and the Dallas Mavericks have slightly rebuilt the roster that took them all the way to the 2024 NBA Finals.
Dallas kept most of their core intact, with their only starter going elsewhere being Derrick Jones Jr. as he signed with the LA Clippers, and they improved their shooting tremendously with the addition of Klay Thompson through a sign-and-trade.
Dallas currently has one roster spot available, and there are plenty of options for them to consider, but it may seem like the final player to fill out the roster has been in front of Mavs fans' faces for some time now.
Mavericks planning on re-signing Markieff Morris
Mavs veteran forward Markieff Morris is a free agent this summer, and according to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Mavs are "sure" to re-sign him (subscription required).
Morris promised Mavs fans that he'd be back next season, and this report from Stein almost confirms that.
The interest in a reunion is obviously mutual between Morris and the Mavs, and bringing him back is a good move by Dallas considering how much he means to the franchise. Morris stepped up as a veteran leader last season, with one of his speeches in the locker room helping them turn the season around, and now they'll likely have him around going into next season.
Last season for Dallas, Morris averaged 2.5 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game while shooting 35.7 percent from downtown in 26 games. Morris obviously didn't play much, but his value from the bench was excellent.
He was always standing up to support his teammates, and everyone around him within the organization has spoken highly of him. Jason Kidd named him the team's MVP from last season, and bringing him back (likely on a minimum contract) is the perfect move for the Mavs.
They get to keep one of the veterans who helped hold this team together while doing so for a cheap price. Morris still has the potential to light it up from downtown when he checks into the game, but I'm sure his minutes will be limited once again next season and he'll make his impact felt from the bench.
All signs are pointing to Morris re-signing with the Mavs, and keeping him around would be an excellent decision for the team as a whole.
For all the latest on Markieff Morris' free agency and the Dallas Mavericks this summer, stay tuned.
