Defense has been a key to help the Dallas Mavericks turn into a contending team. Nico Harrison has shown that with the trades he's made since 2024, as he is clearly prioritizing defense and size.
The Mavericks traded for Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington at the 2024 trade deadline, which was a major factor in the Mavericks' run to the NBA Finals. This past February, Harrison was able to acquire Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers in the Luka Doncic trade, another move that was defense-focused.
Another frontcourt piece was added this offseason with the Mavericks drafting Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.