It’s July 16, and another Dallas offseason has ended – essentially. It’s possible there’s one more trade lying in wait, I’m told, but that’s unlikely. The Mavericks have $11.8 million left of a trade exception after remaining over the salary cap this season, and any player they take in would likely amount to a salary dump. As seen later, there’s still one roster spot left unaccounted for.



So, close enough. The starting five is already being formulated in Rick Carlisle’s mind, and the rotations aren’t far behind. Squint, and you can start to see them. That’s what’s in this article; another proper reckoning of the summer’s moves will come later this week. Right now, it’s about the players here and how they fit.



STARTING FIVE



1. Luka Doncic



Sure, Doncic may have put together the best teenaged rookie season in league history. It doesn’t matter: Dallas will ask even more...