Dante Exum's return to the NBA was a celebrated storyline last season as the Australian guard made his comeback after a two-year stint overseas. However, the good narrative has hit a snag with news emerging from the Dallas Mavericks’ camp. Exum, who played a crucial role in providing depth to the roster last season, is now expected to miss the next three months due to wrist surgery.
The injury, sustained during the Mavericks' training camp, is a significant setback just as the team looks to consolidate their progress in the increasingly competitive Western Conference. Health and medical staff at the Mavericks had explored various treatment options, but ultimately the decision was made for Exum to go under the knife. Though this choice sidelines him for a substantial part of the season, it's a move geared towards ensuring his vigorous return.
Impressive Stats Before the Setback
Exum's performance on his NBA return was noteworthy. Averaging 7.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, and three assists per game, he also achieved an impressive 49% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. His true-shooting percentage, often used as a more accurate barometer of shooting efficiency, stood at an impressive 64.5. Despite these statistics painting a picture of a solid contributor, Exum did see his performance dip somewhat during the postseason. Whether this was due to increasingly tougher defenses, fatigue, or the first signs of his current injury remains speculative.
Roster Adjustments
With Exum now on the sidelines, the Mavericks are looking to adjust their rotation and ensure the void left by him is effectively addressed. This presents opportunities for players like Jaden Hardy and Quentin Grimes, who are likely to see increased playing time off the bench. Hardy, alongside recent signing Spencer Dinwiddie, is expected to take on more offensive responsibilities. Dinwiddie, who was signed late in the offseason, is a player the Mavericks are quite familiar with, thanks to his impactful run with the team that led to the Western Conference finals in his previous tenure. His return is thus anticipated to stabilize the Mavericks' backcourt to some degree.
Meanwhile, Grimes is anticipated to step up defensively within the second unit. His role could be crucial in maintaining defensive pressure, especially in tight games where every point counts. Such strategic adjustments may be crucial as the Mavericks vie for playoff positioning early in the season.
A Team Eyeing Full Strength
The absence of Exum is felt, but the Mavericks are optimistic about their current lineup bolstered by new and returning talent. Their focus remains on sustaining their form until Exum makes his anticipated return later in the season, when he could bolster their lineup just in time for a playoff push. The team is understandably cautious, not rushing Exum back until he's fully ready, given the long-term repercussions an incomplete recovery could entail.
For Exum, the next three months will be about rigorous rehabilitation and staying mentally prepared while watching from the sidelines. The Mavericks, aware of his potential and what he can offer when fully fit, await his return with anticipation. His comeback has the potential to add not just depth but also versatility and experience to a team still finding its rhythm in the face of adversity.
As the Mavericks navigate this early setback, their handling of Exum's recovery will likely be pivotal for their success this season, a task they seem well-prepared to take on, given their proactive approach.