Southwest Division Roundup: Russell Builds Early Chemistry in Dallas; Clarke Eyes Opening Night; Blue, Austin Strike G League Deal
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Dallas, TX — New Mavericks guard D’Angelo Russell joined teammates at the club’s annual veteran camp hosted by Klay Thompson, using the informal workouts to connect with his new group before official training camp opens on Sept. 30.
“When you have that bet and you have that camaraderie to start the season, all the ice is broken,” Russell said. “You don’t wait until preseason or media day to feel like you know these guys.”
The Mavericks will spend the coming weeks refining an offense that must operate without injured star Kyrie Irving, who is recovering from ACL surgery. Dallas signed Russell to help absorb ball-handling duties, and rookie forward Cooper Flagg could also see some playmaking opportunities, according to The Athletic.
Clarke Says He’ll Be Ready for Memphis Opener
Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, sidelined since March with a high-grade PCL strain in his right knee, told the Memphis Commercial Appeal he is “doing everything” in workouts and expects to be available on opening night. “I’m ramping up right now,” Clarke said. “I’ll be there.”
G League Rights Swap Between Blue and Austin
The Oklahoma City Blue acquired the returning-player rights to guard Malachi Flynn plus a 2025 first-round and 2026 second-round G League draft pick from the Austin Spurs in exchange for the rights to guard Adam Flagler. Flynn recently signed with a club in Turkey, so the move only secures his G League rights for Oklahoma City should he return stateside. Flagler is on an Exhibit 10 contract with San Antonio and can earn a bonus by spending at least 60 days with Austin.
Source: Hoops Rumors
