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4 storylines to watch for the Mavericks in preseason

The Dallas Mavericks kick off their 2026-2027 season with a roster in flux, as head coach Dusty May faces early decisions about lineup construction. With Kyrie Irving returning after a full season on the shelf due to injury, the team’s star power is restored—but questions linger about how Irving will mesh with Cooper Flagg in the starting lineup.

Naji Marshall, one of the team’s top talents, may find himself in a sixth-man role despite his elite potential, while the arrival of Morez Johnson Jr. and Santi Aldama adds uncertainty to P.J.

Washington’s starting spot. Johnson Jr., a lottery pick, could secure a long-term commitment at center, while Aldama’s defensive versatility makes him a strong candidate to replace Washington alongside Flagg.

Meanwhile, rookie Sergio De Larrea and Johnson Jr. will need to prove they can handle NBA-level pressure in their first preseason action, with De Larrea’s ball-handling and three-point shooting under scrutiny, and Johnson Jr.

tasked with stretching the floor and defending at the five.

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