With Center Injuries at Critical Mass, Mavericks Sign Kylor Kelley to Two-Way Contract
The Dallas Mavericks have made a significant move in response to their growing injury concerns at the center position. With the team’s roster dealing with a series of setbacks, the Mavericks have signed Kylor Kelley to a two-way contract, addressing the critical gap in their frontcourt. This move comes as Dallas faces an increasingly difficult stretch in the season, and the team is looking for depth and versatility to keep pace with their competition.
The Injury Crisis at Center
The Mavericks’ center position has been plagued with injuries for much of the season, pushing the team to find immediate solutions. The primary concern came when veteran center *JaVale McGee*—a key offseason signing—suffered injuries that have limited his effectiveness and playing time. McGee has been dealing with a combination of ailments, including back and knee issues, which have kept him sidelined for stretches of games.
As the Mavericks were trying to work around McGee’s injury, *Kristaps Porzingis*—who had previously been deployed in some center-heavy rotations—was traded during the offseason, further straining the team’s big-man depth. This left the Mavericks even more vulnerable at the five-spot, especially given the height of the competition in the Western Conference, where multiple teams boast imposing frontcourt players.
Dallas’ starting center role had been rotated between *Dwight Powell* and *Maxi Kleber*, but both players have also experienced various minor injuries and fatigue throughout the season, highlighting the pressing need for additional help. With the Mavericks’ thin center depth becoming a growing concern, the addition of Kelley could prove to be an important short-term fix to keep the team competitive.
### Who Is Kylor Kelley?
Kylor Kelley, who stands at 7 feet, is a relatively unknown name to NBA fans but brings an intriguing skill set that fits what the Mavericks need. A former standout at Oregon State University, Kelley developed a reputation for his shot-blocking prowess. Over the course of his college career, Kelley averaged 3.1 blocks per game during his senior season in 2020, ranking among the nation’s best shot-blockers. His size, length, and defensive instincts make him an ideal candidate to provide rim protection, a quality that Dallas has sorely lacked in their center rotation.
Kelley’s offensive game, however, is still a work in progress. His shooting range remains limited, but his ability to finish near the basket and contribute as a vertical threat in pick-and-roll situations gives him potential as a serviceable backup. While he is not an elite scorer, his primary value lies in his defensive presence. Given the Mavericks’ recent struggles with defending the paint and securing defensive rebounds, Kelley’s shot-blocking ability should help shore up a vulnerable area for the team.
Although Kelley has spent time playing in the G League, with stints for both the *Salt Lake City Stars* and the *Grand Rapids Gold*, his two-way contract with the Mavericks signals that the organization sees him as a potential asset who could contribute to the team on both ends of the floor. He is expected to primarily play for the Mavericks’ G League affiliate, but the two-way contract provides the flexibility for him to join the main roster for up to 45 days throughout the season.
### How Does This Impact the Mavericks?
The Mavericks have been in need of immediate help in their frontcourt, and the signing of Kelley provides depth and versatility. While he is not an immediate solution to the long-term center issues, he gives the team a much-needed option to rotate in as the team deals with injuries to its key big men. His shot-blocking ability could also provide a boost to a defense that has struggled at times this season.
The Mavericks’ defense, particularly their ability to protect the rim and contest shots inside, has been a glaring weakness. By adding Kelley, the team is hoping that he can inject a defensive-minded presence off the bench. Even if he is not yet a major offensive threat, his ability to alter shots and protect the paint could go a long way in improving Dallas’ overall defensive rating.
Kelley’s addition also allows the Mavericks to be more flexible with their roster. Powell and Kleber, both of whom have had their own injury issues, could benefit from some rest and reduced minutes with Kelley providing a viable option for additional minutes at center. Additionally, Kelley’s length and shot-blocking make him a natural fit in the team’s defensive schemes, allowing head coach *Jason Kidd* more options when trying to contain some of the elite big men in the West.
With the injury situation at a critical mass, adding Kelley could be viewed as a strategic move to get the Mavericks through this challenging stretch. The team still has championship aspirations, and bolstering the frontcourt, even temporarily, helps them stay competitive as they look to secure a playoff spot. However, if Kelley is able to develop further and continue progressing, the Mavericks could find themselves with an intriguing piece for their long-term plans.
### What’s Next for the Mavericks?
The next few weeks will be crucial for the Mavericks as they work to integrate Kelley into their lineup. His development in the G League, where he can refine his skills and gain valuable playing time, will be important for the team’s long-term success. If he performs well in the G League, the Mavericks could be tempted to call him up for additional minutes or even explore a potential contract extension if his impact on defense proves substantial.
In the meantime, Dallas will need to continue managing the injuries to McGee, Powell, and Kleber as best they can. If they are able to get healthy, Kylor Kelley’s role could evolve into that of a defensive specialist, backing up Dallas’ regular rotation players.
As the Mavericks navigate the challenges of this season, Kelley’s signing could be a crucial piece in helping the team get through a difficult stretch. For now, the focus is on improving the team’s defense and providing enough depth to withstand their center injury crisis.
With a mix of defensive presence and athleticism, Kylor Kelley may be the right type of addition to give the Mavericks a fighting chance as they aim to make a playoff push in the competitive Western Conference.
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