Mavericks’ Near Miss: Haliburton Was Their Top Draft Target

In the world of NBA drafts, few stories resonate like that of Tyrese Haliburton and the Dallas Mavericks. As reported by hoopswire.com, the Mavericks had their sights set on the talented guard during the 2020 NBA Draft, hoping to secure him as the cornerstone of their franchise.

Haliburton, who ultimately went to the Sacramento Kings with the 12th overall pick, has since established himself as one of the league’s premier point guards. His ascent continued when he was traded to the Indiana Pacers in February 2022, where he began to flourish under the guidance of Rick Carlisle, the former Mavericks head coach.

According to insiders Jamal Collier and Tim MacMahon from ESPN, the Mavericks considered Haliburton their top choice in the 2020 draft, largely influenced by analytics developed by Haralabos Voulgaris. The organization was prepared to make significant moves, including offering their two picks, Nos. 18 and 31, along with Jalen Brunson, who played a pivotal role as both a starter and a sixth man.

Despite their aggressive pursuit, the Mavericks were unable to move up in the draft to secure Haliburton before he was selected by the Kings. Carlisle confirmed this narrative before the start of the 2025 NBA Finals, stating, “We tried like hell to get him and move up; we just couldn’t do it. When I tell you that Mark Cuban tried everything, I mean it. When Mark puts his mind to something, he can usually figure something out.”

The Mavericks’ failure to land Haliburton stands as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of the draft process. While they have enjoyed success, including a trip to the NBA Finals last year, the emergence of Haliburton as a star player for the Pacers underscores what might have been for Dallas. Haliburton has consistently demonstrated his skills, making a significant impact in the playoffs and helping the Pacers reach the Finals, where they currently find themselves tied 2-2 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Mavericks’ desire for Haliburton highlights the complexities of team-building in the NBA, especially in a draft landscape where every decision can have far-reaching implications. As the league evolves, teams like Dallas will continue to weigh their options carefully, seeking to discover the next breakout star while reflecting on past decisions that shape their future.

With the NBA Finals underway, the performance of Haliburton and the Pacers will undoubtedly be scrutinized, further intensifying discussions about the Mavericks’ draft strategy. As fans and analysts alike look back on the 2020 draft, the story of Tyrese Haliburton remains a captivating chapter in the ongoing saga of team dynamics and player development in professional basketball.