Mavericks’ Danté Exum to Make Season Debut Against Pistons: 'We Missed Him in a Big Way'

Dante Exum has been made available to play for the Dallas Mavericks with a minute restriction as he recovers from wrist surgery, signaling a significant development in his return to the court.

Photo: Dallas Mavericks

DETROIT — The Dallas Mavericks have upgraded Danté Exum’s status to available for the first this season, a welcome development as the team prepares for its matchup against the Detroit Pistons.

Exum, completed his recovery process from right wrist surgery, will be under a 15-minute restriction as he eases back into competition. The Mavericks will then evaluate how his stints on the court went as they manage his workload.

“He’s going to be on a minute restriction,” Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said. “We’ll see how his stints go.”

Exum’s reintroduction to the lineup comes at a critical time for the Mavericks, who have been navigating numerous injuries for months. His ability to handle the ball, make open shots, and contribute defensively is expected to provide a boost. He was slated to be the lead backup guard before suffering his injury in training camp.

“He’s a team guy; a guy who can set the table, can push it, play defense, connect on open shots,” Kidd explained. “We missed him in a big way, so we’re happy to have him back.”