The Dallas Mavericks recently made significant changes to their roster by signing two players to two-way contracts as part of their strategy to enhance their depth for the ongoing season. These additions came after the team waived Tyus Jones, opening up a spot to bring in Ryan Nembhard on a two-year standard NBA deal. The move allowed the Mavericks to activate a two-way contract slot and pursue fresh talent for the team’s development squad.
John Poulakidas Joins Mavericks on Two-Way Deal
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Mavericks signed guard John Poulakidas to their available two-way spot. Poulakidas, standing 6’6″ and weighing 205 pounds, has been competing with the Clippers’ G-League affiliate, the San Diego Clippers, where he averaged 14.7 points and 3.8 rebounds per game as a rookie. Initially signed under an Exhibit 10 contract by the Clippers, Poulakidas demonstrated his scoring ability and versatility, making him a promising prospect for Dallas.
During his college career at Yale, Poulakidas was a standout player, earning two Ivy League All-Conference honors. Over four seasons, he helped lead the Bulldogs to three NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted by a notable upset victory over Auburn in 2024. In his senior year, he led the Ivy League in scoring with an average of 19.4 points per game and maintained a strong shooting percentage from beyond the arc, hitting 40.2% on over five three-point attempts per game.
Recently, Poulakidas delivered a standout performance in the G-League, scoring 30 points while sinking 10 three-pointers—a new franchise record—and securing 7 rebounds. This game underscored his potential impact as a sharpshooter and contributor at the next level.
Tyler Smith Added as Two-Way Forward; Miles Kelly Waived
In conjunction with signing Poulakidas, the Mavericks also waived two-way guard Miles Kelly to accommodate forward Tyler Smith. Smith was the 33rd pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2024 NBA Draft but saw limited action, appearing in just 23 games during his rookie season. After being waived by the Bucks before the season started, Smith joined the Houston Rockets on a two-way contract, only to be waived again in early 2026.
Smith has been making valuable contributions for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, the Rockets’ G-League affiliate, where he is averaging 15.9 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. At 6’9″ and 224 pounds, Smith brings much-needed size and skill to the Mavericks’ forward rotation, especially as Moussa Cisse nears the end of his eligibility on a two-way contract.
Miles Kelly, who went undrafted out of Auburn, appeared in 14 games this season for Dallas, averaging 3.1 points per contest. Although expected to provide shooting depth, Kelly shot just 30.3% from three-point range in his limited attempts, which likely contributed to the team’s decision to move in a different direction.
Mavericks’ Current Two-Way Players and Roster Implications
With these moves, the Mavericks’ current two-way roster consists of Moussa Cisse, Tyler Smith, and John Poulakidas. It is notable that Dallas did not add another point guard through these transactions, which leaves Ryan Nembhard and Brandon Williams as the only healthy point guards on the roster. Naji Marshall and Cooper Flagg are also capable of handling the ball when needed, providing additional flexibility.
This roster adjustment reflects the Mavericks’ broader aim to strengthen their bench depth and build a versatile pool of talent. The additions of Poulakidas and Smith not only increase competition within the squad but also provide valuable options for playing time between NBA and G-League assignments.
Looking Ahead: What These Signings Mean for Dallas
These two-way contract signings position the Mavericks with increased depth and developmental prospects for the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA season. John Poulakidas’ shooting ability and recent standout performances offer Dallas a promising perimeter threat, while Tyler Smith’s size and scoring presence add a needed physical dimension inside. The moves also reflect a strategic roster management approach from the Mavericks, aiming to balance experience and youth effectively.
With the new signings in place, fans and analysts will be watching how these players adapt and contribute as the season progresses. The Mavericks’ ability to nurture these talents could play a key role in their pursuit of postseason success.
The Dallas Mavericks announced today that they have signed guard John Poulakidas and forward Tyler Smith to Two-Way contracts. Per team policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed.
In a related move, the Mavericks have requested waivers on Two-Way guard Miles Kelly. pic.twitter.com/EzpWd5fZPx
— Mavs PR (@MavsPR) March 1, 2026
