In an unexpected move, the Dallas Mavericks have waived Olivier Maxence-Prosper, their 2023 first-round draft pick, utilizing the “waive and stretch” provision. This decision, made just two years after he was drafted, makes the 22-year-old forward a free agent for the upcoming season. We delve into the reasons behind this move and its implications for the team.
Reasons for the Mavericks` Decision to Waive Maxence-Prosper
The primary reason for this action is tied to Kyrie Irving`s injury. The guard is expected to miss at least half of the upcoming season due to an ACL tear, creating a critical shortage in the team`s backcourt. In response, the Mavericks signed D`Angelo Russell as their starting point guard.
However, Dallas`s bench lacks a reliable backup guard. Jaden Hardy, despite his potential, has struggled to find consistent playing time and is more of a shooting guard than an offense orchestrator. Brandon Williams, while showing flashes of promise, was on a two-way contract, and relying heavily on him would be a significant gamble.
This is where Dante Exum comes in. The 2014 lottery pick has spent the last two seasons with the Mavericks and established himself as an important reserve point guard. He provides much-needed size and defense, and can also facilitate offense. Waiving Maxence-Prosper opens up a roster spot for the re-signing of Exum, a move that had long been rumored. The Mavericks reportedly sought a trade for O-Max or Hardy first, but the approaching deadline for the “waive and stretch” provision left them with no other option.
The choice to retain Hardy over Maxence-Prosper was dictated by Dallas`s current circumstances. Had the team possessed sufficient backcourt depth, they likely would have kept O-Max due to his greater versatility, particularly on defense, thanks to his 6-foot-8 height and ability to play both forward positions. However, his offensive game is limited, whereas Hardy, despite being a defensive liability, can score in bursts.
Furthermore, the Mavericks now have an abundance of forwards, with other recent additions to this position. In such a situation, O-Max became the odd man out.
Financial Implications for Dallas
Utilizing the “waive and stretch” provision for Maxence-Prosper`s remaining $3 million means Dallas will pay him approximately $1 million annually over the next three years. This places the Mavericks roughly $3.6 million below the second tax apron, compared to $1.6 million previously. This provides the team with enough financial flexibility to sign Exum without exceeding the second apron and incurring associated penalties.
While the amount may seem small, Exum earned $3 million last season, so freeing up these funds ensures Dallas won`t force him to take a pay cut. Had the Mavericks waived Hardy instead, it would have offered greater upfront cap relief ($12 million guaranteed over the next two years), but the payments would have stretched over five years instead of three, totaling approximately $1.5 million more than the Maxence-Prosper stretch.
This isn`t an ideal scenario for long-term financial planning, especially as most NBA teams seek any opportunity to reduce costs and avoid the second tax apron. This might become an issue for Dallas a year or two from now, but it was a necessary step to ensure reliable backcourt depth for the upcoming season.
