The Dallas Mavericks entered the 2026‑27 NBA season with a clear sense of renewal. After a dismal 26‑56 record last year, the franchise overhauled its leadership and roster, positioning itself for a competitive bounce‑back.
Leadership changes set the tone
Principal owner and team governor Patrick Dumont appointed Masai Ujiri as president and alternate governor in May, handing all basketball decisions to Ujiri. The new president promptly dismissed former coach Jason Kidd, who still had four years left on his contract, and hired Dusty May—fresh from a national championship run at Michigan—as the Mavericks’ first‑time NBA head coach.
Ujiri also brought in Mike Schmitz as general manager, giving the front office a unified vision. The coaching shift signals a move away from the chaotic, owner‑driven model that marked the Mark Cuban era, establishing a more conventional organizational structure.
Roster overhaul and key additions
Dallas said goodbye to several veterans, including guard Klay Thompson, forward Khris Middleton and forward Marvin Bagley III. In their place, the Mavericks added a mix of young talent and seasoned role players: forward Morez Johnson Jr., guard Sergio De Larrea (a tall Spanish point guard), forward Zaccharie Risacher, forward Santi Aldama and guard Marcus Sasser.
The centerpiece of the rebuild is the return of nine‑time All‑Star Kyrie Irving, who missed the entire 2025‑26 season while rehabbing a torn ACL. Irving’s comeback was delayed by a calf setback, but the team remains confident he will contribute once fully healthy. Complementing Irving is 2025 No. 1 overall pick and reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, a former Duke standout who brings size and scoring ability to the backcourt.
Strengths and concerns
Fans have long anticipated seeing Irving and Flagg share the floor. Both are dynamic scorers, and their chemistry could revitalize Dallas’ offense. Veteran forwards P.J. Washington Jr. and Naji Marshall provide reliable depth, while the frontcourt gains depth with the addition of Morez Johnson Jr., who was a ninth‑overall pick and played under Coach May at Michigan.
However, the Mavericks still lack a true point guard. The ill‑fated trade that sent Luka Doncic away left a void at the premier playmaking spot, and while Sergio De Larrea shows promise, he will need time to develop into a consistent NBA contributor. Additionally, the health of center Dereck Lively II remains a question after two seasons plagued by foot injuries.
What to watch
Beyond Irving and Flagg, the Mavericks will monitor the progress of Morez Johnson Jr. and French forward Zaccharie Risacher, the 2024 No. 1 overall pick who struggled to find a role with the Atlanta Hawks. If either can earn a rotation spot, Dallas will have a deeper frontcourt to support its young core.
The season opens on Oct. 21 in Houston, giving the new coaching staff and roster a chance to showcase their revamped identity. Dallas fans hope the hard reset will translate into a return to the playoffs after missing out for two straight years.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
