Why It's Time for the Mavericks to Give AJ Johnson a Real Look
As the Dallas Mavericks head into the All-Star break, the focus has clearly shifted. With a nine-game skid and the playoffs slipping out of reach, the conversation is less about late-season surges and more about player development-and that spotlight needs to shine a little brighter on AJ Johnson.
The second-year guard, acquired in the Anthony Davis trade, has barely touched the floor since arriving in Dallas-just 11 total minutes across three games. For a team that’s pivoting toward the future, that’s a number that doesn’t quite add up.
Johnson may be buried behind a crowded backcourt, but with 28 games left and the postseason off the table, it’s time for Jason Kidd to start answering some developmental questions. Chief among them: What exactly does Dallas have in AJ Johnson?
A Young Talent with Untapped Potential
Let’s be clear-Johnson’s NBA journey hasn’t exactly followed a straight line. Drafted 23rd overall in 2024, he’s already on his third team in less than two seasons.
That kind of movement can be tough on a young player, but it also means he’s still something of a blank slate. What we do know is that Johnson brings a mix of tools that are hard to teach: length, athleticism, defensive instincts, and a knack for creating off the dribble.
He’s shown flashes-averaging 5.1 points and 1.7 assists per game so far in his career-enough to suggest there’s something worth exploring. His ability to get downhill and finish at the rim stands out, and his speed in the open floor makes him a real threat in transition.
The jumper still needs polishing, but that’s typical for young guards. What’s important is that the foundation is there.
A Fit for the Flagg Era
When Dallas pulled the trigger on the Davis trade, Johnson wasn’t just a throw-in-he was a prospect fans immediately circled. At just 20 years old, he’s the second-youngest player on the roster, trailing only Cooper Flagg.
And that’s the point: the Mavericks are now building around Flagg’s timeline. Every personnel decision from here on out has to be viewed through that lens, and Johnson fits that mold.
With a young core that includes Flagg, Dereck Lively II, Max Christie, Ryan Nembhard, and Moussa Cisse, the Mavericks are assembling a group with intriguing long-term upside. Johnson’s skill set complements that group well, especially if he can continue to grow as a secondary ball-handler and perimeter defender.
A Low-Risk, High-Upside Opportunity
At this stage of the season, the Mavericks aren’t just playing out the string-they’re laying the groundwork for next year and beyond. That means prioritizing development over wins.
Giving Johnson real rotation minutes isn’t just about seeing what he can do-it’s about positioning the franchise for the future. If he clicks, Dallas adds another piece to its youth movement.
If not, at least they’ll have clarity heading into the offseason.
And let’s not forget the lottery implications. More minutes for young, developing players often come with growing pains, which-let’s be honest-wouldn’t hurt the Mavericks’ chances at landing a top draft pick. That pick could be the final piece in building a contender around Flagg.
The Clock Is Ticking
Jason Kidd has 28 games left to evaluate AJ Johnson in a meaningful way. That’s more than enough time to get a sense of whether he fits into the Mavericks’ long-term plans.
But it starts with opportunity. Johnson can’t prove anything from the bench.
For fans, the final stretch of the season is less about the standings and more about glimpses of what’s to come. AJ Johnson deserves his shot to be part of that vision. Let’s see what the kid can do.