The Mavericks at a Crossroads: What’s Next for Dallas?
The Dallas Mavericks find themselves in a delicate position. Nine months after former general manager Nico Harrison made a shocking move, sending Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, the team struggles to climb in the Western Conference.
The situation has led to important decisions. Harrison was recently fired, and Anthony Davis, key in the exchange, has played few games due to an injury. In addition, Kyrie Irving is still recovering from an injury. All this raises the key question: What decisions can the Mavericks make to change course, especially now that the Cooper Flagg era is approaching?
We analyze potential strategies for the Mavericks, including the value of a possible trade for Anthony Davis, options in the 2026 draft and free agency, and the pros and cons of waiting for the team to recover.Anthony Davis’s Market Value
Before analyzing the possible options, it is important to consider the current situation. Interim managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi are tasked with evaluating the roster. However, the trade market is still in the evaluation phase, and time constraints and contractual agreements complicate immediate decisions.
The Mavericks face financial challenges and restrictions in the transfer market. Given the current situation, the franchise must carefully evaluate its options. There is a need to address deficiencies in the game and consider the long-term future.
Regarding Davis, questions have been raised about his value and trade potential. League executives have expressed opinions on the impact of his injury history, his salary, and his extension potential. Despite these factors, Davis could generate interest in the trade market, as demonstrated by the case of Jimmy Butler.Reconfiguring the Roster Around Flagg
A possible Davis trade could be a way to improve the roster. Davis has played out of position in Dallas, affecting the team’s dynamics. A trade for perimeter talent could rebalance the team and allow other players to perform better.
The team’s strategy should align with Flagg’s age, 18 years old, as he is the most important player. Although draft picks will not be recovered, adding young talent and draft picks ensures a promising future for Flagg.Is Davis and Irving’s Health the Key?
The return of Irving and Davis would undoubtedly improve the Mavericks’ offensive performance. However, even with Irving, the team might lack the shooting ability needed to compete at the highest level. The lack of shooters and the difficulty in generating space could limit the team’s success.
Although Irving improves the team’s offense, the offensive gap is significant and cannot be covered by a single player. Challenges in shooting and lack of space can hinder the Mavericks’ competitiveness.The 2026 Draft: A Chance for the Mavericks?
The possibility of obtaining a high draft pick could be beneficial for the Mavericks. The 2026 draft class is shaping up to be promising, with standout talents like Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Cameron Boozer.
The depth of talent in the draft could be an advantage for teams looking to improve their rosters. If the Mavericks decide to focus on the draft, they could find a star teammate for Flagg.Free Agency: Options and Restrictions
Regarding free agency, the Mavericks face financial restrictions. While they might have a draft pick, they also need to deal with financial limitations. The team is in a luxury tax situation and will face a significant penalty.
The restrictions on the second level of taxes complicate the situation. The Mavericks will not be able to use the mid-level exception, and will have limitations on trades and player signings. Despite this, the team has 12 players under contract, which provides some flexibility.
