How Newly Signed Kemba Walker Sees Himself Fitting In With The Dallas Mavericks

He hasn’t performed a single minute, however Kemba Walker is already making waves in Dallas. The Dallas Mavericks formally introduced the signing of Walker on Tuesday, and he attended the crew’s 116-113 win at house over the Golden State Warriors.

The pairing of Walker and the Mavericks seems to be an ideal match, on paper not less than. Dallas has been in search of a succesful third level guard to assist run its offense whereas Walker, a former four-time All-Star, has been itching to make his NBA comeback. A number of years after rumors surfaced that the Mavs would pursue Walker in free company—he says he didn’t find out about them—destiny has seemingly introduced them collectively.

“I’m feeling plenty of gratitude,” Walker informed the media Wednesday. “By the grace of God, I’m right here. I’ve been working extraordinarily arduous. Within the meantime, I’ve been getting ready myself for today. I’m excited. I’m excited to be right here. It is a nice alternative for me. It’s a distinct journey. I’m tremendous pleased, man.”

It’s been a whirlwind few days for Walker. He says he first obtained a name from the Mavericks over the weekend. In a matter of days, he went from watching video games on TV, persevering with to check the sport, to touchdown in Dallas and inking a veteran’s minimal contract.

Walker signed a Relaxation-of-Season contract with Dallas. As a result of the group may solely provide him a veteran’s minimal, Walker will earn $2,905,851 due to his 10-plus years within the NBA.

“He’s been an All-Star on this league, he’s a veteran, is aware of how one can play the sport the correct manner,” Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd mentioned earlier than the sport in opposition to the Warriors. “You have a look at the issues that he can do; he can get you a basket. So, we’re fortunate to have him.”

Walker stands to play a big position in Dallas—doubtlessly. As soon as he obtained the decision from the entrance workplace, he says he began watching Mavericks video games, beginning with their recreation in opposition to the Toronto Raptors on Saturday, November 26. Dallas misplaced that recreation, however Walker was watching to see the place he may greatest slot in and assist the crew.

“I feel simply including one other man who can create for others and myself,” Walker mentioned about the place he can slot in. “I feel I can assist in that facet. Simply assist take somewhat stress off—Luka [Doncic] actually doesn’t want any stress taken off him. The child is particular.

“Simply possibly serving to with Spence [Spencer Dinwiddie] somewhat bit, who’s been killing it this yr. I’ve been having the chance to look at him. You recognize with among the younger guys like Josh [Green] and issues like that, I may possibly be that additional ball handler, one other man open and simply create.”

With Doncic’s utilization at 38% and Dinwiddie’s enjoying time with the opposite starters producing adverse internet scores 1 / 4 of the best way via the season, Walker has the potential to shake up Dallas’ rotation dramatically. There’s no assure that he’ll, although. He nonetheless has to show that his knee accidents are behind him and that he may be efficient on the ground.

For now, he supplies a level of hope for the Mavericks, who’re reeling from a poor offseason. Walker may not be the identical participant that rumors linked them to in 2019, neither is he the right reply to Dallas’ prayers, however he brings a level of expertise that’s arduous to search out and replicate. The 2 want one another proper now, and that widespread bond has the potential to breed belief and foster future success.

“I’m right here now,” Walker mentioned. “I do know it’s sort of a distinct state of affairs, a distinct time. Hopefully, it could work out.”