The Dallas Mavericks are in a great position to clinch a spot in the Play-In Tournament later this week, despite the injuries and roster shakeups they’ve endured throughout the season. With the recent returns of Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford, the team’s postseason outlook is looking much brighter than many initially predicted.
Dallas’s frontcourt has re-emerged as a dominant force, with head coach Jason Kidd able to field a trio of elite defenders in P.J. Washington, Davis, and Lively II. However, the same can’t be said for their backcourt.
Since Kyrie Irving suffered an ACL tear in March, the Mavericks have struggled to maintain stability among their guards. Spencer Dinwiddie has shouldered much of the burden as one of the few healthy point guards on the roster. Fortunately for Dallas, help is on the way just in time for the postseason.
Mavericks Upgrade Young Scoring Guard to Standard Deal
Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, Dallas is expected to convert Brandon Williams’s two-way contract into a standard two-year deal later this week, making him eligible to participate in the playoffs. This move has been anticipated by fans after Williams impressed with strong performances during his increased role last month.
Williams’s scoring ability and high energy have been sorely missed since he reached the limit of his two-way contract’s 50-game eligibility. His return gives the Mavericks’ bench a significant offensive boost heading into the postseason.
At just 25 years old, Williams provides both short-term firepower and long-term value, allowing Dallas to focus this offseason on re-signing Irving while maintaining a solid backup plan. Signed midseason last year, Williams made the most of his recent opportunity and has earned Kidd’s trust as a legitimate rotation piece.
With quickness, a tight handle, and a lethal pull-up jumper, Williams has shown he can get to the basket at will and adapt to any role the team needs. He’s hitting his stride at just the right moment and is expected to contribute heavily right away.
Assuming he’s officially signed on April 10, Williams will be eligible to play in the Mavericks’ final two regular season games against the Toronto Raptors and Memphis Grizzlies. If current standings hold, Dallas will face a tough matchup against the Sacramento Kings on the road in the opening round of the Play-In Tournament.