Mavericks eyeing big names in early stages of GM search

The Mavericks are casting a wide net in their search for a new general manager and aiming high.

Perhaps a little too high.

Either way, according to reports from The Stein Line’s Mark Stein and Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont has his sights set on some of the league’s biggest names. 

“Among the names on Dumont’s wish list… Sam Presti (Thunder), Tim Connelly (Timberwolves) and Brad Stevens (Celtics),” Mannix wrote. “Cleveland top exec Koby Altman’s name is also in the mix.”

None of those guys is likely to leave. Connelly is the only one with an expiring deal, and sources have told Hoops Wire he’s eyeing a return to Minnesota.

Meanwhile, Stein reports that the Mavericks have former Warriors GM Bob Myers high on their list as well. He’s currently with Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, making that one a long shot, too.

And yes, current interim co-GMs Matt Riccardi and Michael Finley are also said to be in the mix.

So the Mavericks are being ambitious in their search (perhaps too ambitious), but they remain in the information-gathering stage at this point. Things aren’t expected to ramp up until after the season.

“It’s the most important decision that the organization is going to make…,” CEO Rick Welts told reporters, via Stein. “So we are going to take our time and get it right.”