Dallas Mavericks: 5 potential free agency targets in 2018

3. Marcus Smart

Another player with postseason experience, Marcus Smart has helped guide the Boston Celtics to two consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances. The 24-year-old is most known for his defense and intangibles, which has helped make up for his lackluster shooting percentages.

He gets under his opponent’s skin and provides a certain intensity off the bench that only a select few can. Against the Rockets on Dec. 28, Smart drew two critical offensive fouls on James Harden in the final 7.3 seconds. The Celtics went on to win it, 99-98.

It’s no wonder he told ESPN he feels he is worth more than $12-14 million a year. He is worth the money, but with Kyrie Irving, Terry Rozier and Shane Larkin all on the roster, he might not find a deal with Boston as a restricted free agent.

Smart would back up point guard Dennis Smith Jr. and help mentor Luka Doncic on defense. He’s better than J.J. Barea and makes Brunson a tradable asset. If Dallas can sign Smart to a deal Boston won’t match, it’d be a good move for the team’s growing competitive culture.