The Dallas Mavericks are projected to make a big splash this summer, with multiple news sources reporting that the team is now setting its sights on two free agents. Also, the Knicks are looking to sign a star. After striking out on several big-name targets in previous summers, the Mavericks are in a position to add talent. The Mavs also just lost to the Wizards.

This growing optimism in Dallas is largely attributed to the rise of rookie Luka Doncic as the future face of the franchise. The midseason trade that netted All-Star forward Kristaps Porzingis from the New York Knicks also helped.

Now that they have the two young stars in the fold, the Mavs are set to aggressively pursue the third star, and luckily for them, the 2019 free agency class is sprawling with options.

Kemba Walker

According to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer, two league sources told him that the Mavericks are seriously interested in Hornets point guard Kemba Walker, who will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Walker, a three-time All-Star, is enjoying his best NBA season, as he averages a career-high 24.9 points and 5.8 assists per game. Unfortunately, despite playing at an All-Star level the past three seasons, the former University of Connecticut standout is still unable to turn the Hornets into a legit contender in the Eastern Conference.

Bonnell pointed out that the lack of a supporting cast around Walker is the main reason why he hasn’t achieved a great deal of success in the postseason. Although the star guard has always shown his loyalty for the franchise, the insider feels the Hornets have to make a roster upgrade in the days leading up to free agency or risk the possibility of losing the franchise player for nothing.

Nikola Vucevic

Another incoming free agent the Mavs are reportedly monitoring is Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic. Brad Townsend of the Dallas Morning News stated that the Mavericks have some level of interest in the sweet-shooting big man, dating back to February’s midseason trade deadline. Like Walker, Vucevic is also putting up career numbers with 20.6 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.

His shooting percentage has also taken a significant jump with his three-point shooting game (38 percent) becoming a more reliable weapon.

The 28-year-old big man will also become an unrestricted free agent after this season. He’s projected to earn a paycheck significantly higher than his current contract with the Magic that pays him $12.5 million per year.
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