The Dallas Mavericks will enter the new season boasting one of the most stacked starting groups in the league, headlined by Cooper Flagg, Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and Dereck Lively II. However, despite their star power, the Mavericks began free agency with a major gap to fill in the backcourt, as Irving remains sidelined recovering from an ACL injury that could keep him out well into the season.
That changed on Monday when Dallas moved quickly to bring in veteran guard D’Angelo Russell. The former Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers guard agreed to a reported two-year deal worth around $13 million, giving the Mavericks an experienced playmaker to steady the point guard spot while Irving works his way back (via ESPN's Shams Charania).
Former Brooklyn Nets guard D'Angelo Russell (1) and Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall (13).
Former Brooklyn Nets guard D'Angelo Russell (1) and Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall (13).
© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Russell now has a chance to contribute to a true contender loaded with talent and championship expectations. Not long after the news broke, Russell took to social media with an eight-word post on X, seemingly alluding to his new opportunity in Dallas.
“Lucky me. Luck is when opportunity meets preparation,” Russell wrote, hinting at how he views this new chapter of his career.
The 2019 NBA All-Star wrapped up last season averaging 12.6 points and 5.1 assists, splitting time between the Lakers and the Nets. He’ll be asked to keep the offense flowing alongside Davis, whom he has shared the floor with previously in Los Angeles.
For the Mavericks, the move helps protect their title ambitions in a competitive Western Conference. With Flagg ready to show why he was the No. 1 overall pick and veterans like Thompson and Davis leading the charge, Russell’s arrival fills a crucial void in the lineup ahead of Irving's return.