Dante Exum’s career has fallen far short of the expectations that came with being the No. 5 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. After five lackluster seasons with the Utah Jazz and an unimpressive stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he spent a couple of seasons playing overseas. However, Exum signed with the Dallas Mavericks ahead of the 2024 season and finally found his place in the NBA.
While he didn’t become the star many had hoped for, Exum proved to be a valuable role player for the Mavs, averaging 7.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 55 games (17 starts), playing 19.8 minutes per game.
One of his biggest contributions was his shooting efficiency. Though his shooting volume wasn’t high, he shot an impressive 53.3 percent from the field and 49.1 percent from three-point range. His ball-handling and defensive skills were also key assets for Dallas.
Unfortunately, the Mavericks will start the season without the 29-year-old, as Exum suffered a wrist injury during training camp and will miss the first three months following surgery, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.
Dallas has added guard depth by bringing Spencer Dinwiddie back and relying on Jaden Hardy, but Exum’s absence will still be felt.
