The Dallas Mavericks wrapped up their 2025 NBA Summer League campaign with a 92-69 win over the Orlando Magic, finishing 2-3 overall. Though the spotlight initially belonged to top prospects like Cooper Flagg and Ryan Nembhard, who were shut down early, one name quietly rose in significance—Maxwell Lewis, a 23-year-old undrafted forward whose late-summer performances may have earned him another look from NBA teams.
Lewis, a 6-foot-7 wing with NBA experience, emerged as the most impressive player on the Mavericks’ Summer League roster once the big names sat out. He poured in 23 points against the 76ers and followed up with an efficient 18-point performance on 7-of-10 shooting versus the Magic—numbers that easily set him apart from the rest of the pack. With a wiry frame, solid athleticism, and improving perimeter shooting, Lewis showed flashes of becoming a reliable 3-and-D option, making him a compelling candidate for Dallas’ final two-way contract slot.
Originally drafted 40th overall in 2023 by the Denver Nuggets before being traded to the Lakers, Lewis’ NBA journey has already taken multiple turns. He spent time with the Lakers’ G League affiliate South Bay Lakers and was then shipped to Brooklyn as part of the Dorian Finney-Smith trade. There, he averaged 5.3 points across 21 games before being waived at season’s end. Still searching for stability, he joined the Mavericks’ Summer League team hoping to impress—and he did just that. While early games saw him post just 2, 8, and 9 points, his standout showings after Flagg and Nembhard’s exits underscored his readiness to seize the opportunity.
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— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) August 4, 2025
Despite the buzz his performances generated, no NBA team—including the Mavericks—offered Lewis a contract immediately following Summer League. In a surprising twist, Lewis instead signed with Tofaş S.K. in Turkey, signaling a pivot to international play. Summer League often serves as a scouting ground for overseas clubs, and Lewis’ athleticism and polished shot selection clearly caught the eye of the Turkish outfit. This isn’t necessarily the end of his NBA aspirations, though. Many players have used overseas stints as launching pads back into the league, and given Lewis’ age and two years of NBA seasoning, a return remains within reach.
It’s unfortunate for Dallas fans hoping Lewis would remain in-house, especially after outperforming other Summer League prospects. Jordan Hall and Jamarion Sharp showed moments of promise—Hall as a facilitator and Sharp with size—but neither displayed the same two-way impact or pro-readiness as Lewis. Hall lacked the rim pressure and defensive acumen, while Sharp didn’t elevate to the level Dallas likely sought for a roster already full of bigs. Lewis, meanwhile, proved he could contribute across both ends of the floor, even stepping into a lead scorer’s role when needed.
Though it’s true that Dallas can still fill its final two-way slot with a player from outside the organization, there’s something to be said about rewarding in-house development. Lewis didn’t just flash potential—he produced, played within the system, and thrived under increased responsibility. His three-point shooting, a previous weakness, looked improved as he hit off-the-dribble shots with confidence, raising his stock as a perimeter threat. Defensively, he showcased good footwork and recovery, showing potential as a modern wing stopper if nurtured correctly.
Former Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Marko Milic, who resigned after Luka Doncic was traded, believes that the media has a bias against European superstars.
In light of what we’ve seen, it’s hard to disagree with him.
What are y’all’s thoughts??
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— HeroOfTheDay (@Hero_OfThe_Day) August 5, 2025
Had the Mavericks extended even an Exhibit 10 deal or a training camp invite, Lewis might have stayed to fight for a final roster spot. His chemistry with former teammates like D’Angelo Russell, now in Dallas, and familiarity with NBA rotations could have given him an edge heading into preseason. Instead, the front office opted to let him explore opportunities abroad, possibly eyeing other developmental prospects or veteran depth.
That said, Lewis’ journey is far from over. His Turkish venture will provide valuable experience, playing time, and likely a leading role—something he wouldn’t immediately get on an NBA roster. With a strong showing overseas and continued improvement in his offensive game, he could find his way back to the NBA sooner rather than later. Teams are always on the lookout for wings with size, length, and switchability—qualities that Lewis offers in abundance.
Whether or not the Mavericks missed an opportunity depends on how they use their final two-way spot. Still, Maxwell Lewis did everything he could with the chance he was given in Las Vegas. He showed growth, resilience, and the kind of hunger that NBA teams value. Even though he didn’t land in Dallas this time, his performances were a reminder that talent can emerge from any part of the roster—not just the top picks. For now, Lewis’ story continues in Turkey, but don’t be surprised if his name resurfaces when NBA training camps roll around or roster needs arise mid-season.
