The Dallas Mavericks are making the No. 18 draft pick available in search of immediate help, according to Jeremy Woo of Sports Illustrated.
Granted, the 18th pick alone isn’t likely to generate much interest, but the Mavericks could use it as part of a package with either a veteran or more picks (or both).
The goal in all this is to strengthen the roster around Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. Several reports have suggested the Mavs are in search of a “third star,” and if throwing in the 18th pick is part of what gets them there, so be it.
Right now, Mavs coach Rick Carlisle is happy with the roster following a hard-fought loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs. But another consistent scoring threat could get the Mavs’ young nucleus to the next level.
Along with the Mavs, the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are two other teams expected to try to package their picks for veterans.
The draft is scheduled for Nov. 18.