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Can Jett Howard make the impact in Dallas that Orlando hoped for?

The Dallas Mavericks have added former Orlando Magic draft pick Jett Howard to their roster, signing him to a two-way contract this offseason. Howard, a 6-foot-8 wing selected 11th overall in 2023, struggled to establish himself in three seasons with the Magic but showed modest improvement last year, averaging 5.5 points in 12.6 minutes per game while shooting 37.2% from three-point range and 94.9% from the free-throw line.

His limited production doesn’t stand out for a lottery pick, but Dallas sees value in his ability to stretch the floor, a skill the Mavericks desperately need alongside Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving. The challenge for Howard will be proving he can contribute beyond shooting—whether that means running screens, making extra passes, or competing defensively—to earn consistent minutes in a rotation that already features several young, athletic players.

If he can develop into a reliable secondary option, his role could expand significantly, especially if Flagg continues to grow as an offensive catalyst. The Mavericks aren’t expecting a breakout star, but a dependable shooter who can punish defenses when they focus on their primary creators would be a valuable addition to their youth-driven roster.

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