Dallas Mavericks Let Go Of a Critical Player

The Dallas Mavericks have let go of a critical player, Kessler Edwards, who was part of the team’s roster last year. Here’s why the Mavericks released Edwards, 25, and the team the Glendale, California native signed with.

Dallas Mavericks Let Go Of a Critical Player

Edwards spent the 2024-25 NBA season with the Dallas Mavericks, but has agreed to a training camp deal with the Denver Nuggets. The deal was first reported by Michael Scotto of USA Today and Hoops Hype.

Edwards’ stint with the Mavericks in 2024-25 began shortly after signing a two-way deal in Dallas. Edwards is now set to provide frontcourt depth for the Nuggets. The 25-year-old averaged 4.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, while shooting 49.6% from the field and 40.7% from downtown.

Edwards’ upcoming stint with the Nuggets won’t be without competition, though. Edwards will compete with Bruce Brown, Peyton Watson, and fellow ex-Dallas Maverick Tim Hardaway for minutes in Denver.

Dallas Mavericks’ Outlook

The Dallas Mavericks’ outlook appears to be promising with the first overall selection of former Duke star Cooper Flagg. Flagg, 18, has often been seen as the potential cornerstone for the Mavericks.

However, Dallas’ loss of another key player can potentially affect the team. Edwards’ value as a two-way player was much higher than anyone imagined. The small forward played any position that Mavericks Head Coach Jason Kidd asked of him, and was ready whenever an opportunity knocked.

Final Thoughts

The Dallas Mavericks can succeed without Edwards’ versatility, but the end game might not be achieved. The Mavericks were hit with injury spells, mysterious illnesses, and defensive woes. The Mavericks also made the headlines for the wrong reasons, such as Assistant Coach Darrell Armstrong’s arrest, Governor Patrick Dumont’s controversial attack on Luka Doncic’s character, and then-player Luka Doncic’s home being broken into.

Edwards might not receive a large role in Denver, but Mavericks fans will likely keep an eye on him, as he could help the Nuggets on both offense and defense. The Mavericks lost several players to free agency, and might lose Kai Jones soon. Jones, 24, recently worked out with the Miami Heat. The Mavericks must successfully build around Flagg.