Rumor: Mavericks teenager in danger of being cut to make larger move.
The Dallas Mavericks made one of the most underappreciated moves of the offseason earlier this week, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers and signing Spencer Dinwiddie to a one-year contract.
This trade officially filled up the Mavs’ 15-man roster ahead of training camp in two months, but Dallas appears to be planning one more move to mix things up on this squad.
Dallas intends to re-sign Markieff Morris despite having a full roster, which means the Mavs will have to create a roster place.
Rumors: A.J. Lawson might be removed to make place for Markieff Morris.
According to NBA expert Marc Stein (subscription needed), Dallas’ rookie wing A.J. Lawson “is the most vulnerable player on the roster to make room for Morris.” Stein has been reporting for weeks that the Mavericks want to re-sign Morris, and it appears that Lawson will have to be cut to make this happen.
All indicators have led to Lawson’s departure for a number of weeks now, as Dallas sought to add guard depth while maintaining Morris, and this summer might be the end of Lawson’s time with the Mavericks.
Lawson showed promise as a Maverick and performed well in Summer League in Las Vegas this summer, but Dallas appears to be prioritizing Morris’ leadership above the chance of Lawson developing into a competent rotation player in the NBA.
Waiving Lawson in order to keep Morris would not necessarily be a negative decision, given how crucial Morris was to the Mavericks during the season and in the playoffs, and the club sees him as a key component to their success.
Leadership is crucial, as is chemistry, and Morris’ teammates consistently praise him whenever they get the opportunity. His expertise is vital to this squad, and all signs are that Morris will return to Dallas next season. Re-signing Morris may not appear to be a significant move on the surface, but his effect off the court is invaluable.
Given this fresh speculation, it appears that Lawson will be sacrificed, and the Mavs will most likely be able to retain their great leader from last season and sign him to a veteran minimum contract. After signing Dinwiddie, it became evident that there would be no space for Lawson on the squad, and Dallas appears to be moving in a different way.
Stay tuned for all the latest news and rumors about Markieff Morris, A.J. Lawson, and the Dallas Mavericks this summer.
