The Dallas Mavericks have chosen to utilize the waive and stretch provision on 2023 first-round draft selection Olivier Maxence-Prosper, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. This move makes the 22-year-old forward available as a free agent for the upcoming season. Although he may not be a household name, his status as a former first-round pick raises questions regarding the Mavericks’ decision to part ways with him so soon after his acquisition.

Why Was Maxence-Prosper Released?

This choice largely relates to the situation surrounding Kyrie Irving for the 2025 season. With the All-Star guard out for a significant part of the season due to an ACL injury, the Mavericks are tasked with bolstering their backcourt while he recuperates. They made an impactful signing by bringing in D’Angelo Russell to step in as starting point guard during Irving’s absence.

In assessing their bench, the Mavericks are lacking a dependable reserve guard who can handle the playmaking responsibilities effectively. Although Jaden Hardy has had challenges securing consistent playing time, especially under head coach Jason Kidd, and is more of a shooting guard than a primary ball-handler, they do have options such as Brandon Williams, who despite showcasing potential with a standout game last season, is still a two-way player with limited experience.

This leads us to Dante Exum, a key figure in this scenario. As a former lottery pick, Exum has proven to be a valuable asset off the bench for Dallas. He provides not only size and defensive capability but also the ability to control the offense effectively while contributing points.

Waiving Maxence-Prosper opens up a crucial roster spot for Exum’s potential re-signing, something the Mavericks have been aiming to do since summer’s free agency began. It appears they initially hoped to find a way to trade either O-Max or Hardy, yet the timing led them to utilize the waive-and-stretch provision before the deadline.

Opting to release Maxence-Prosper rather than Hardy reflects the Mavericks’ current circumstances. If Dallas had more depth in the backcourt, they might have retained O-Max, as his size offers versatility, particularly on defense. Standing at 6 foot 8, he has the capability to navigate both forward positions, and while his offensive skills are developing, more time might have refined that aspect of his game. Conversely, Hardy, lacking in defensive prowess, has the ability to stride offensively when in form.

Financial Implications for the Mavericks

They will still be responsible for the remaining $3 million owed to O-Max, stretched across three years at around $1 million per year. This move positions the Mavericks approximately $3.6 million under the second tax apron, enhancing their financial flexibility and genuinely allowing them to retain Exum without needing to negotiate a lesser salary.

Though this approach might not appear substantial, especially as Exum earned $3 million last season. The decision to waive Hardy could have similarly provided immediate cap relief but would have prolonged the payment structure. Ultimately, this was a decision driven by necessity for depth in backcourt options for the upcoming season.