Why the Dallas Mavericks Have to Make a Roster Move for Walter Clayton Jr.

Clayton makes an early impact

Dallas signed guard Walter Clayton Jr. to a two-way contract after the Memphis Grizzlies waived him at the start of the season. The Mavericks needed backcourt depth behind Kyrie Irving, and Clayton was a first-round pick the year before.

Through seven games, Clayton is shooting 47.2% from the floor and 52.6% from three. His averages are 7.0 points, 3.1 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game. The article notes that his three-point rate may not last, though he was a strong college shooter.

A place in the closing lineup

Clayton has emerged as the team's second-best guard, behind Irving, according to the article. He joined Irving, Cooper Flagg, P.J. Washington and Naji Marshall in the closing lineup against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.

His two-way deal limits him to 50 regular-season games. The Mavericks have time before reaching that limit, but the article argues that planning ahead could help the team retain him.

Options to open a spot

Cisse has had limited opportunity even while Santi Aldama and Dereck Lively II recover from surgeries. Daniel Gafford and Morez Johnson Jr. have handled much of the center workload, with some minutes going to Washington.

Trade could rebalance the roster

The other proposed route is a two-for-one trade near the deadline. The Mavericks are described as having too many frontcourt players, making a deal that clears space there and adds backcourt help a potential fit.

The article says another scorer would be preferable. Either approach could create room for Clayton as he continues contributing to the team.