Mavericks are blatantly screwing up their final open roster spot

The Dallas Mavericks are actively searching to fill their final two-way roster spot just weeks before training camp begins. While the team currently has Miles Kelly and Ryan Nembhard in two-way roles, they are seeking another promising candidate to complete the roster. Last season, the Mavericks found valuable contributors like Brandon Williams and Kai Jones through similar spots.

Indications suggest the front office, led by Nico Harrison and Jason Kidd, prefers signing a rookie for this position. The team has shown interest in adding size, evidenced by their Exhibit 10 signing of 7-foot-5 center Jamarion Sharp and another rookie center Moussa Cisse, despite his disappointing Summer League performance.

The article argues the Mavericks may be overlooking second-year wing Maxwell Lewis, who struggled in his first Summer League game but significantly improved in Dallas' final two games in Las Vegas. Lewis demonstrated he could be Dallas' best player in those contests and fits the archetype of a player who can draw defensive attention while being an above-average defender.

Two-way contracts are designed to give young players NBA opportunities with minimal risk to teams. The Mavericks benefited from these spots last season when injuries mounted, finding multiple players who could fill roster needs. Lewis already has NBA experience from his time on a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers last season before being waived.

By signing Lewis to their final roster spot, the Mavericks would gain a player with two years of NBA development time without losing value. Lewis proved during Summer League that he deserves another NBA opportunity, showing improved comfort on both ends of the court. While he may still be a development project, the Mavericks have time to nurture his athletic potential.