The Dallas Mavericks are entering a new phase as they build around Cooper Flagg following major changes to the franchise’s roster and leadership.
Kyrie Irving is preparing to return after missing the entire 2025-26 season while recovering from a torn ACL. His return marked a pivotal moment for the Mavericks, as he appeared in the NBA China games during preseason for the first time in over a year.
Irving’s performance in a preseason contest against the Houston Rockets on October 6, 2026, was notable, with 17 points leading the team. Before his injury, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists across 50 games, underscoring his offensive impact during his lone season with Dallas.
The Mavericks’ roster adjustments extend beyond Irving’s return, with rookie Sergio De Larrea emerging as a standout contributor sooner than expected. His flashes of brilliance add depth to a team still defining its identity around Flagg, who has become the cornerstone of the franchise’s future.
Irving’s enthusiasm for playing alongside Flagg was evident in his recent remarks, where he compared their potential chemistry to legendary duos, stating, ‘Putting up stats only Michael Jordan was reaching.’
Despite the optimism surrounding Irving’s recovery and the team’s youth movement, trade rumors continue to swirl. The Dallas Mavericks have been reluctant to listen to trade offers for Irving due to his performance in preseason.
However, the uncertainty surrounding his future remains a defining narrative for the franchise, with Irving himself offering a cryptic hint about his retirement plans: ‘When that day comes, you guys will know. I'll probably tweet it out.’
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