The Dallas Mavericks’ Marquese Chriss Dilemma

The Dallas Mavericks have a problem. Since joining the team on a 10-day Covid-19 hardship exemption contract on December 21, forward Marquese Chriss has been an impressive addition to the roster. In fact, the Mavericks are so pleased with Chriss’ contributions that they signed him to two subsequent 10-day contracts, the most recent coming on January 10. 

Now, though, as Kristaps Porzingis makes his return from health and safety protocols, Chriss is the odd man out. He can remain on the roster and ride out the final days of his current contract, but he must do so as an inactive player. Dallas is interested in retaining Chriss, but doing so will require the team to make a tough roster decision. 

Dallas is carrying a full complement of players. They have 15 players under contract and one two-way player on their roster. To add Chriss, the Mavericks will have to waive one of their full-time players. Chriss does not qualify for a two-way contract. 

Center Willie Cauley-Stein’s name is a potential player that the Mavs can release. The Mavericks owe just $1.95 million on Cauley-Stein’s current $4.1 million contract. Further, he hasn’t played in a game since November 27, 2021. Dallas lists him as out for personal reasons. There isn’t a timetable for his return. 

While it may seem on the surface that Cauley-Stein is the most likely player to cut, his salary complicates matters. Rumors indicate that the Mavericks may be looking to make a move prior to the NBA trade deadline on February 10. Cauley-Stein’s $4.1 million in cap space could go a long way in helping match salaries if Dallas swings for the fences to land a star. 

Chriss is earning $111,457 for his current 10-day contract. If a roster spot does open, the Mavericks can offer him a veteran’s minimum deal. In this case, Chriss would make $2.08 million based on his six years of NBA experience. 

In 12 games with the Mavericks, Chriss is averaging 6.8 points on 63% shooting overall and 3.8 rebounds per game. In his most recent appearance—Friday against the Memphis Grizzlies—Chriss scored 15 points while shooting six for seven on field goals. He also grabbed six rebounds and had an assist. 

Chriss’ current 10-day contract expires January 20.