Mavericks pick up Zaccharie Risacher’s $17.4 million option

October 28, 2026

Zaccharie Risacher’s shot hasn’t arrived in Dallas yet. The Mavericks have seen enough elsewhere to keep investing in him.

Dallas exercised the 21-year-old forward’s $17.4 million team option for 2027-28, the team announced Wednesday. The decision guarantees the fourth season of his rookie contract.

Risacher has averaged 8.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals through four games, playing 30 minutes per night. He’s also shooting just 30.8% from the field and 17.6% on threes.

Those last two numbers need work. Coach Dusty May, though, wants the rest of Risacher’s contributions included in the conversation.

“Zacch is finding himself now, he’s still so young. We really, really value and appreciate those plays,” May said, via Grant Afseth of Dallas Sports Journal.

May pointed to loose balls, blocks, steals and the less noticeable defensive plays that help teammates finish possessions.

“There’s no stat for that, but those are valued in our program and within our team,” he said.

The former No. 1 overall pick arrived in the offseason three-team trade that sent Lu Dort to the Hawks. He immediately set a Mavericks record with five steals in his team debut against the Rockets.

With Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving available to drive the offense, Dallas can ask Risacher to defend, rebound and capitalize on the chances they create.

The Mavericks would certainly welcome more made shots. Picking up the option shows they believe there’s enough here to keep working with while those come along.