Dallas Mavericks: Breakout candidates for 2019-20

No. 3: Justin Jackson

Let’s hope an escape from Sacramento will be what it takes for Justin Jackson to start producing at a respectable level.

The Dallas Mavericks may have gotten a gem when they sent Harisson Barnes to California’s capital in exchange for Jackson, but time will tell.

The former UNC Tarheel will have to scrap for a backup spot at small forward with Dorian Finney-Smith.

While playing fewer minutes per game, Jackson averaged more or less the same stats as Finney-Smith.

Jackson, 24, averaged 7.2 points per game and 2.6 rebounds per game in 81 contests last year.

The biggest key for a potential breakout season from Jackson is surrounding cast. Jackson may get backup minutes every night, but his ceiling screams go-to sixth man.

Coach Rick Carlisle could transform Jackson into a reliable backup for Luka Doncic, who missed 10 games last season with injuries.

Whether Jackson plays third fiddle to Doncic and Finney-Smith is still up in the air, but if the Mavericks know anything its fluidity.

Jackson is young enough to stay as a consistent option for the next few years, and even if he does not receive quality minutes he will no doubt see his stats go up.