The Dallas Mavericks front office is making some serious waves today! If you have been tracking the NBA roster shakeups on your timeline, you already know that the trade and buyout markets are heating up. But the Mavericks just made a massive internal move that has fans talking.
In a major roster shift, Dallas is officially converting undrafted rookie guard Ryan Nembhard from a two-way contract to a standard two-year NBA deal!
The Ripple Effect: Tyus Jones Out
To make room for the 22-year-old rising star, the Mavericks had to make a tough call. Following a brutal blowout loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, the front office decided to waive veteran guard Tyus Jones. Jones is expected to clear waivers and sign with a major playoff contender, but his departure leaves a massive void in the Dallas backcourt.
Why Nembhard is the Next Man Up
With superstar Kyrie Irving shut down for the season and rookie Cooper Flagg dealing with injuries, the Mavericks desperately need someone to run the offense. Enter Ryan Nembhard.
The Gonzaga product has been an absolute steal for Dallas. Despite going completely undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, Nembhard has grinded his way into head coach Jason Kidd’s rotation. In 38 games this season, he is averaging 6.7 points and an impressive 4.9 assists in just under 19 minutes per game. Plus, he’s shooting nearly 38% from beyond the arc!
Kidd has been incredibly vocal about Nembhard’s high basketball IQ, praising the rookie for his ability to set the table and stay completely composed under pressure. It also doesn’t hurt that basketball runs in his blood—Ryan is the younger brother of Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard!
With a guaranteed contract now in hand, which includes a team option for the 2026-27 season, Ryan Nembhard has officially secured his spot in the league.
