Dwight Powell is expected to receive a training camp invitation from the Dallas Mavericks. That's according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
The former Boston Celtics forward recently joined Kyrie Irving, Cooper Flagg, and Co. for team bonding in Santa Monica, California.
Powell began his career in Boston. During his rookie season, he was a part of the trade that sent Rajon Rondo to Dallas and brought Jae Crowder to the Celtics.
While Rondo bickered with then-Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle, Crowder was helping Isaiah Thomas, who's now back with the C's, Avery Bradley, and a scrappy group of underdogs overachieve in Boston. Meanwhile, Powell was becoming a fixture in Dallas. The former second-round pick has carved out a 12-year career. Now, it will reportedly have a chance to extend into the 2026-27 campaign.
Will Dwight Powell make the Mavericks?
It's a long shot. Dallas has 15 players signed to standard contracts. The only one that isn't on a fully guaranteed deal is Moussa Cisse -- who almost joined a division rival of the Celtics' this summer. His agreement goes from being partially guaranteed to fully guaranteed on Oct. 1.
It's hard to identify someone who Powell is likely to beat out for a roster spot. That's especially true when considering the contractual situation. For the forecast to change, it will probably require either a trade that creates a vacancy or an injury.
So why would the Mavericks invite Dwight Powell?
It's a thank you. This has been a good player and teammate for over a decade in Dallas. The organization, even with all of its changes, appreciates his contributions and how he has carried himself.
As a result, the former Celtic will get a chance to show other franchises that he can add value there, too. Going to training camp with the Mavericks, the former Stanford standout has a chance to extend his career.
If the Mavs need to sign Powell during the regular season, they will be glad they brought him to training camp. It's not just a chance to stay sharp; it's an opportunity to get familiar with new head coach Dusty May. If that scenario arises, doing so now and learning the playbook is a valuable head start.
The 35-year-old from Toronto, Ontario, Canada averaged 3.3 points and 4.1 rebounds last season. He did so in 14.3 minutes per contest across 63 appearances. He's stayed in the league for over a decade by contributing in his role and being a good teammate.
Last year reinforced that Powell can still do that. So, even if it's not with the Mavericks, perhaps the former Celtics forward will find himself on an NBA roster at some point this season.
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