With their first-round flexibility dwindling, Dallas could target a versatile Cyclone senior whose defensive switchability and refined playmaking would offer immediate stability for the second-unit rotation.
After the 2026 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks will not control their own first-round pick until 2031. That means they will have to make the most of all of the picks they make this year.
And that includes their pick at the end of the first round.
In the latest 2026 NBA mock draft from ESPN's Jeremy Woo, he has them taking Iowa State star Joshua Jefferson with the 30th pick.
"Opting for a veteran college player at this slot could make sense for the Mavericks, who don't control their own pick until 2031," Woo writes. "A number of younger underclassmen who might offer more theoretical upside here could be headed back to school if they aren't first-round locks."
Jefferson’s appeal starts with his versatility. At around 6-8, he brings a strong frame, defensive flexibility, and enough skill to operate in multiple roles on both ends of the floor. He’s not a flashy prospect, but his game fits the modern NBA mold: switchable defense, smart passing decisions, and the ability to contribute without needing high usage.
The Cyclones' senior averaged 16 points, seven rebounds, and just under five assists this past season, and he did so with almost two steals a game as well. He also improved his three-point shooting to around 35 percent, which is a very encouraging sign.
Defensively, he offers another layer of utility. His size and mobility allow him to guard multiple positions, and he has the strength to hold his ground against bigger forwards. For a Mavericks roster that has occasionally struggled with consistency on the defensive end, adding a player with Jefferson’s instincts could help stabilize second-unit lineups.
Offensively, there is still room for growth. While Jefferson can score in a variety of ways within structure, he’s not projected to be a primary option. Improving consistency as a shooter will be key to maximizing his value at the next level, especially in playoff settings where spacing becomes critical.
But if his growth from his junior to senior year is any indication, he could be in a good position to do just that.
If Dallas does end up making this pick, it would signal continued emphasis on depth, defense, and smart roster construction around its core stars.
