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Dallas Mavericks: 3 reasons retaining Kristaps Porzingis was a no-brainer

By Adam Tayabali

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 5 : Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks warms up prior to the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 5, 2019 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - APRIL 5 : Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks warms up prior to the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 5, 2019 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Elsa/Getty Images.
Photo by Elsa/Getty Images. /

3. His two-way play

Before the knee injury, Porzingis was one of the best rim protectors in the game. During the 2017-18 season, he was averaging a league-leading 2.4 blocks per game.

He used his mobility to stick with guards on the perimeter. He also masterfully used his height and length to alter and block shots in the paint without fouling. His effort was noticeable, as he often ran back to deliver blocks in transition on unsuspecting opponents.

Last season, the Dallas Mavericks were unimpressive defensively. They ranked 18th in defensive rating, ranking 26th and 29th and blocks and steals per game, respectively. KP might not be the same in the paint upon his return, but if he is still able to alter shots and make opposing players think twice about going to the basket, it will help spur a turnaround.

On the offensive end, Porzingis can do a lot of different things. He relied on his athleticism and size to deliver monster dunks and put-backs. He also has a reliable jump shot, shooting 39.5 percent from beyond the arc in 2017-18.

His full offensive arsenal as well as his defensive playmaking was on display in his career-high 40-point, six-block performance against the Indiana Pacers on Nov. 5, 2017.

Even if he is less physical upon his return, Kristaps still has the height and shooting stroke to hit shots over smaller opponents and to remain an All-star caliber big man.

Arguably the best part about Porzingis is the fact that he can give you 20-25 points a night without dominating the ball. This will be important as he won’t hinder Luka Doncic‘s development.

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