Mavericks Extend Jaden Hardy with Three-Year, $18 Million Deal Amid Backcourt Injuries
In a significant move to bolster their backcourt depth, the Dallas Mavericks have signed young guard Jaden Hardy to a three-year, $18 million contract extension.
The deal comes at a crucial time for the Mavericks, as the team grapples with injuries to key backcourt players, making Hardy’s extended role even more pivotal.
Hardy, 21, was a second-round pick (37th overall) in the 2022 NBA Draft and has shown tremendous promise since joining the Mavericks.
Known for his scoring ability and offensive explosiveness, Hardy has quickly developed into a dependable contributor for Dallas, especially during stretches when the team’s starting guards have been sidelined due to injury.
The Mavericks’ backcourt has been plagued with injury concerns recently. Both Luka Dončić and Spencer Dinwiddie have missed games throughout the season, putting additional pressure on the team’s depth.
Hardy has risen to the occasion, providing a scoring spark and playmaking presence when the Mavs needed it most.
The extension solidifies his place in the team’s rotation, ensuring that the Mavericks can rely on him for consistent production moving forward.
Over his brief NBA career, Hardy has impressed with his ability to score in various ways, from shooting beyond the arc to attacking the rim.
He’s also demonstrated an improved defensive effort, which has helped him become a valuable two-way player for the Mavericks.
Through his performances, Hardy has averaged 11.0 points and 3.5 assists per game, along with shooting 37% from three-point range, making him a potential long-term fixture in Dallas.
For the Mavericks, securing Hardy at this stage represents a smart investment in their future. The team has made a clear effort to surround Dončić with capable supporting pieces, and the extension of Hardy is a part of that strategy.
By locking in Hardy for three more years, Dallas ensures that they have another reliable backcourt option to complement their superstar, especially during a season when health and depth have been concerns.
In the long term, Hardy’s extension could provide the Mavericks with the flexibility they need to make a deeper playoff push. The team’s front office views him as a vital piece in their long-term vision, and the deal reflects confidence in his ability to continue developing as a key contributor.