The Dallas Mavericks have shifted into full rebuild mode, putting No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg at the center of their plans following last week’s deadline deal that sent Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards.
The move comes with Dallas sitting at 19-33, still without Kyrie Irving as he rehabs a torn ACL. One year ago, Flagg appeared headed for a rebuilding franchise in the 2025 draft. Instead, the lottery delivered him to a club with two established stars. With Davis now gone and Irving sidelined, the 19-year-old forward suddenly becomes the focal point of the roster.
“Honestly, it doesn’t really change much,” Flagg said Saturday. “I’m just going to go out there every night, try to be consistent and be the best version of myself.”
Rookie production fuels front-office confidence
Flagg shook off a slow start and is up to 20.3 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists while shooting 48.4 percent from the field and 80.6 percent at the line. Interim co-general manager Matt Riccardi said the teenager’s rapid adjustment to the NBA influenced the decision to move Davis. “He carries himself at a mature age. Everything he does is natural to him,” Riccardi noted.
Middleton expected to stay—for now
Khris Middleton, acquired from Washington in the Davis blockbuster, joined the Mavericks in San Antonio on Saturday. Despite outside speculation about a possible buyout, there is no current plan to part ways. The veteran forward hopes to debut Tuesday in Phoenix.
Tyus Jones joins backcourt after three-team tweak
To offset the departures of D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy and the injured Dante Exum, Dallas expanded the Davis trade into a three-team arrangement that delivered point guard Tyus Jones from Charlotte. Head coach Jason Kidd praised Jones’ basketball IQ and expects him to fit quickly. Jones posted four points, seven assists and a +18 rating in 17 minutes during Saturday’s loss to the Spurs.
Strong debut for Marvin Bagley III
Newly acquired big man Marvin Bagley III also impressed in San Antonio, finishing with 16 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks off the bench. His eight offensive boards set a franchise record for a Mavericks debut. “I just tried to control what I could control and be myself,” Bagley said after making the trip to Dallas for physicals before immediately flying to Texas.
The Mavericks resume play Tuesday in Phoenix, where the franchise’s new centerpiece will continue navigating an accelerated leadership role.
Source: Hoops Rumors
