The Dallas Mavericks dropped a 124-105 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, a game that exposed inconsistencies on both ends. Dallas struggled to close out possessions and had turnover issues. The Grizzlies controlled the paint and the Mavericks could not keep pace late.
In response, Dallas waived veteran guard Tyus Jones and converted Ryan Nembhard’s two-way deal into a standard two-year contract with a team option for 2026-27. The move created roster space and removed Nembhard’s 50-game two-way limit. It gives the Mavericks a young playmaker on the main roster for the stretch run.
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The Mavericks waived veteran guard Tyus Jones to create roster space for Nembhard. Dallas will have financial flexibility and a lottery pick this summer — allowing his deal to provide optionality in Nembhard's long-term future with the Mavericks. https://t.co/TjUGIMfpAS
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 28, 2026
Nembhard has shown promise. On his two-way he averaged 9.9 points, 6.1 assists and 44.4 percent from three in 17 starts, and across 38 NBA games this season he averaged 6.7 points, 4.9 assists and 42.9 percent shooting, per ESPN. In the G League he averaged 22.4 points and 10.6 assists in recent outings.
Nembhard said, per DallasHoops “I’m just trying to win games and enjoy hooping.”
Coach Jason Kidd praised Nembhard’s steadiness. “He knows who he is and that’s kind of refreshing,” Kidd said. “He is steady, gets us organized, and our pace does not drop off when he is at the point guard.”
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Tyus Jones’ release answers an immediate need but removes a veteran ball-handler. Dallas intends to clear the waiver process before Sunday so Jones can retain playoff eligibility with his next team. The move also gives Dallas financial flexibility and a roster spot for development.
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Dallas sits 21-38 and will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday. The team then faces a five-game road trip through Charlotte, Orlando, Boston, Toronto and Atlanta. The conversion rewards Nembhard’s development and gives Dallas optionality; the team option lets the club evaluate him next offseason while preserving cap flexibility and pursue other moves. Nembhard’s availability now matters more than ever.
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