The Dallas Mavericks have wasted no time getting to work on the offseason to add pieces to have another strong competitive team after losing the 2024 NBA Finals to the Boston Celtics. Despite losing Derrick Jones Jr. and Tim Hardaway Jr., the Mavs have acquired Quentin Grimes, Naji Marshall, and one of the greatest 3-point shooters in NBA history, Klay Thompson through a sign-and-trade. Guards have been added and subtracted this offseason for Dallas. These moves put one guard in a position next season where he faces a make-or-break year which could determine his fate with the Mavs.
Dante Exum was a valuable addition to the team as a substitute during the 2023–24 campaign. Exum shot 53 percent from the field, an amazing 49 percent from three, and averaged 7.8 points per game. But, Exum had severe difficulties throughout the 2024 Playoffs.
In 21 appearances, Exum averaged fewer than seven minutes per game and just two points per game. Exum’s shooting percentage also fell significantly. Exum made 36% of his shots from the field and 35% from three.
With the Mavs’ outstanding guard depth, Exum has to have a breakout season in Dallas this upcoming season. The primary motivator for Exum is that his contract expires after 2025.
According to Spotrac, Exum’s cap hit for the upcoming season will be $3.15 million, and following the season, he will be a free agency without restrictions. What would happen, then, if Exum underperforms in his final season?
The Mavs might consider trading Exum for another asset at the deadline. GM Nico Harrison has made significant trades each year during his tenure. If Exum doesn’t perform well next season, Harrison could include him in a trade package to improve the roster.
Exum is in a challenging position on the Mavs’ roster due to their deep guard lineup, including Kyrie Irving, Luka Doncic, Thompson, Grimes, and Jaden Hardy. As Exum turns 29 tomorrow, this season is crucial for his NBA career.
While Exum might hope to remain in Dallas after next season, a lackluster performance could end his stint with the team.