2. Have Willie Cauley-Stein opt in
The Mavericks have $108 million in committed salary for next season. As a result, they need to find players who will fit their system for a low cost. Willie Cauley-Stein fits that criteria. He is a 27-year-old center who is due $2.3 million next season, should he opt in.
There is not a lot of money in the NBA at the moment for a center who is not able to stretch the floor. This is the dynamic that Cauley-Stein fits into. He does not have the rebounding or shot-blocking ability of other centers either.
This is why Cauley-Stein will not be offered any more money next season. He got to play for a team who was good enough to stretch the LA Clippers in their playoffs series. He was also a solid contributor after being traded from the Golden State Warriors.
While he only played 13 games, Cauley-Stein hit 68.9 percent of his field goals. He averaged 5.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, 0.8 assists and 0.8 blocks in just 12.1 minutes per game. This is incredible efficiency.
The Mavericks may be without big man Porzingis for the start or next season thanks to his knee surgery. Having another player who has an understanding of the system who can give the coaching staff options is worth it.