2019 NBA free agency: 5 potential landing spots for Khris Middleton
By Jordan Foote
2. Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are one of the more interesting free agent destinations out there. Potential (read: likely) Rookie of the Year Luka Doncic managed to lead the team to 33 wins despite losing the majority of his supporting cast at the trade deadline. Kristaps Porzingis is set to make his Mavs debut after he signs a large contract with the team this offseason. Even if that deal is for the maximum amount possible, Dallas would still have right around enough to sign another max player.
That’s where Middleton factors in. A forward that can handle the ball and facilitate, his play style would fit quite well alongside Doncic. Porzingis isn’t difficult to play with, as he can score from anywhere on the floor and provides a compelling defensive presence. How good he’ll be coming off an ACL tear remains to be seen, but given that he’s still just 23 years old, his best basketball is likely ahead of him.
This move makes a lot of sense for Dallas. Bringing in a quality starting wing to take a bit of pressure off Doncic, while making it easier for him to attack on the offensive end, raises the ceiling of the Mavs’ offense. It also improves the team’s play on the defensive end by adding a proven stopper.
A healthy Porzingis and a newly-acquired Middleton could be enough to put Dallas right back in the middle of the playoff picture. In a Western Conference that’s up for grabs due to the unfortunate injuries suffered by Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, it may be time to strike while the iron is hot.