In what may be the boldest move of the decade, the Dallas Mavericks are reportedly preparing to select a future star in the upcoming NBA draft who could potentially succeed Kyrie Irving in their backcourt. As the franchise looks to solidify its position as a contender for years to come, they are focused on adding a dynamic player who can complement Luka Dončić while ultimately stepping into the leadership role once Irving’s tenure begins to wind down.
Since acquiring Kyrie Irving midseason in 2023, the Mavericks have faced both excitement and uncertainty. Irving’s brilliance is evident, but his unpredictable career path has raised questions about his long-term fit in Dallas. With Dončić locked in as the franchise player, the Mavs know they must strategically plan for the future. This is where the latest draft projections come into play.
Recent mock drafts suggest that the Mavericks are looking at several potential future backcourt leaders, one of whom may eventually be tasked with stepping into the shoes of Kyrie Irving. While names like Aaron Nesmith (Indiana Pacers), Ochai Agbaji (Toronto Raptors), and T.J. McConnell have emerged as possibilities, the Mavs are expected to target a versatile guard who can not only thrive in a secondary role but grow into a primary playmaking role in the future.
Aaron Nesmith, known for his scoring ability and defensive tenacity, has become a key contributor for the Pacers. His potential to become a two-way player fits what Dallas needs—someone who can both defend and space the floor. With his high basketball IQ and ability to guard multiple positions, Nesmith could evolve into a perfect complement to Dončić while offering long-term stability in the backcourt.
Meanwhile, Ochai Agbaji, another intriguing prospect, brings athleticism, shooting, and toughness. His experience with the Toronto Raptors has shown that he is capable of contributing immediately, but there’s also upside to his development. Agbaji’s strong perimeter shooting could mesh well with Dončić’s playmaking, while his defensive ability would be a key asset for Dallas moving forward.
T.J. McConnell, though known for his role as a steady backup in Indiana, also fits the mold of what Dallas may need—a savvy, experienced point guard who can lead the offense when necessary and offer mentorship to younger players. His leadership and ability to make quick decisions in clutch moments could ease the transition as the Mavericks look to the future.
The Mavericks are at a pivotal point in their rebuild and are clearly looking to bring in a player who can complement their two superstars and carry the torch into the future. If Dallas successfully secures a future backcourt leader, it would mark a defining moment in their long-term vision for the franchise. With the draft on the horizon, all eyes are on the Mavericks to see how they choose to shape their future post-Irving.
