Should the Dallas Mavericks Draft a Point Guard?
Should the Dallas Mavericks draft a point guard or a forward in the 2026 NBA Draft? Both the short- and long-term futures are in the Mavericks’ hands.
The Mavericks call the shots at the end of the day. Still, Dallas’ final decision appears to be driven by both the team’s short-term roster needs and long-term team-building goals.
The Mavs have a rather unique draft history, with noteworthy players drafted in the past. But one thing is for sure, as the team is building around Cooper Flagg and a veteran core.
The Mavs appear to be building around Flagg, 19, while addressing their long-term point guard need and shooting needs. Read on for a closer look to make an informed opinion.
Should the Dallas Mavericks Draft a Point Guard?
The Dallas Mavericks’ draft outlook is rather challenging. The Mavericks lack a first-round pick from 2027 to 2030. However, Dallas would regain control of its namesake pick in 2031.
The 2026 NBA Draft class showcases a positive image, thanks to the elite talent across multiple positions. AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Darryn Peterson are franchise-changing players.
Dybantsa, 19, played at BYU from 2025 to 2026. Boozer, 18, played at Duke from 2025-26. Both Dybantsa and Boozer play at forward. Peterson, 19, played at Kansas as a guard from 2025-26.
Peterson is an ideal fit for the Mavs. Peterson’s scoring, ball-handling, and playmaking, along with a defensive presence, can outshine the cramping issues that caused him to miss 11 games.
The Mavs are a team that would benefit from sustained success. Peterson’s game appears to be built for NBA growth. His defensive versatility can be attributed to his length and motor.
The Mavs’ focus on the future was sparked by a Cooper Flagg-driven rebuild. The Mavs could benefit from pairing Flagg with a long-term point guard. That point guard could be Peterson.
If not Peterson, then the Mavs might consider Mikel Brown Jr., Darius Acuff Jr., Kingston Flemings, Brayden Burries, or Labaron Philon — all of whom can be second option guards.
Should the Mavericks Draft a Forward?
The Mavericks’ draft strategy appears to be driven by their need to build around Flagg, while addressing the absence of a true point guard after Kyrie Irving’s torn ACL in March 2025.
Despite pre-draft chatter centering on guards, Dallas has silently shown interest in drafting a long switchable forward as a potential ninth overall pick of the 2026 NBA Draft.
A forward is an ideal fit for the Mavs. A forward’s multi-faceted ability to create space, defend the paint, and share the ball in pick-and-roll minutes can complement Flagg’s scoring.
Mavs president and alternate governor Masai Ujiri, who previously served as an executive for the Toronto Raptors, has a proven track record of drafting and developing forwards.
Ujiri, 55, has drafted and developed star forwards, such as OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, and Jakob Poeltl. Ujiri’s previous experience can give Dallas diverse experience and adaptability.
If the Mavs draft a forward, Dallas will receive an adaptable and versatile player who could contribute on both ends of the court. Dallas will also balance the roster around Flagg.
And, if the Mavs draft a forward, Dallas will receive a high upside forward with the ninth overall pick without sacrificing other needs. A forward’s potential for growth can be a worthwhile risk.
The Mavericks’ Outlook
The Mavericks’ overall outlook appears to be cautiously optimistic. The Mavericks reportedly have a strategic approach to their upcoming draft picks on Tuesday and Wednesday.
But the Mavericks’ outlook likely won’t stop with the draft. The Mavs must stay healthy, while effectively carrying out their roster moves. The Mavs will benefit from a balanced, sturdy unit.
