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NBA Draft 2019: Top 3 options for Dallas Mavericks to select at pick No. 37

By Tristan Freeman

SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 10: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks watches closing seconds of game against the San Antonio Spurs with Mark Cuban on his right at AT&T Center on April 10, 2019 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that , by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 10: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks watches closing seconds of game against the San Antonio Spurs with Mark Cuban on his right at AT&T Center on April 10, 2019 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that , by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) /
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ATHENS, GA – FEBRUARY 17: Kyle Alexander #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers shoots over Nicolas Claxton #33 of the Georgia Bulldogs during the basketball game at Stegeman Coliseum on February 17, 2018 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images)
ATHENS, GA – FEBRUARY 17: Kyle Alexander #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers shoots over Nicolas Claxton #33 of the Georgia Bulldogs during the basketball game at Stegeman Coliseum on February 17, 2018 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images) /

3. Nic Claxton – Georgia

2018-19 stats: 13.0 ppg 8.6 rpg 1.8 apg and 2.5 bpg

After a solid sophomore season at Georgia, Claxton elected to remain in the NBA Draft. That was probably due to his masterful performances in the NBA Draft Combine, where he was a menace on the defensive. The 6’11 center has great measurables to go along with it and is still fairly young as a prospect. The center position overall is weak so there’s a chance someone will reach for him.

If Claxton does remain at No. 37, the Mavericks should grab him. He would be a great defensive addition to Porzingis in the frontcourt. He can defend out on the perimeter as well and can switch on pick and roll attempts. The former Bulldog is someone could give 15-20 minutes off the bench and give a good effort on the defensive end, as long as other Mavericks who can shoot surround him.

Dallas will have to be patient with him as Claxton’s offense is a long way away from the NBA level. He shot just 46% from the field as a center and doesn’t spread the floor. If he is picked by this team there’s a good chance that he’ll spend some time in the G-League. But to be clear, this is a project that can pay off in the long run as a defensive specialist with a growing offensive game.

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