The Dallas Mavericks are standing at a crossroads, and the decisions they make now could define their future for years to come. But here’s where it gets controversial: after trading away Luka Dončić in a move that will forever be remembered as one of the worst in NBA history, the Mavs are left wondering whether to double down on their current path or pivot entirely. Let’s break it down.
Last Friday, just hours before facing the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena, Dallas’s top basketball operations leaders, Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi, took their courtside seats. These two have stepped into the interim co-general manager roles following the departure of Nico Harrison, whose tenure was marked by the disastrous Dončić trade. Now, Finley and Riccardi are tasked with deciding whether to follow Harrison’s blueprint or chart a new course. It’s a decision that could shape the franchise’s trajectory.
Mavs officials remain optimistic, insisting they can turn things around. At 7–15 after a recent win over Denver, Dallas isn’t in free fall like some other struggling teams. They’ve played an NBA-high 17 ‘clutch’ games—those decided by five points or fewer—and have won six of them. According to coach Jason Kidd, these tight contests will only strengthen the team as the season progresses. But here’s the part most people miss: the Mavs’ injury woes have been nothing short of catastrophic.
Kyrie Irving has been sidelined all season, Anthony Davis recently returned after months of absence, and players like Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and P.J. Washington have all battled injuries. Washington’s latest setback? Stepping on a basketball during warmups and spraining his ankle. It’s almost comical how unlucky they’ve been. Davis’s return has provided a spark—he dropped 32 points and 13 rebounds in a recent game—but he’s not the playmaker Dallas desperately needs. Still, his presence opens up opportunities for players like Ryan Nembhard and Cooper Flagg, who have shown flashes of brilliance.
Irving’s eventual return could be a game-changer. Dallas’s half-court offense has been abysmal, averaging just 90.9 points per 100 plays—nearly seven points below the league average. Even a diminished Irving would provide an instant boost, especially with his three-point shooting. Some in Dallas believe a healthy Irving, Davis, and a rapidly improving Flagg could propel the Mavs into playoff contention. But do they really want that? With a deep draft class on the horizon, is it wiser to aim for a high pick rather than a fleeting playoff run?
The team’s leadership has expanded since Harrison’s departure, with Finley, Riccardi, Kidd, and even Mark Cuban back in the mix. They’ve discussed all options, including stripping away aging parts of the roster. Anthony Davis, at 32, could be on the chopping block. While there’s no current market for him, teams like Chicago or Atlanta might take a chance if he proves his health. But here’s the question: is trading Davis worth it? Cooper Flagg is the future, and at just 19, he’s already breaking records. Could he carry a roster of role players to respectability?
Flagg’s potential is undeniable. After scoring 35 points in a recent game—the youngest player in NBA history to do so—Klay Thompson remarked, ‘Cooper’s upside is limitless. He has every tool to be great.’ But pairing him with a strong point guard is crucial. Irving, despite the age gap, could fill that role for a few more years. Yet, the Mavs must decide whether to go all-in on this season or prioritize long-term rebuilding.
The playoffs are within reach, but so is a top draft pick. What would you do? Chase a playoff berth with an aging core or rebuild around Flagg and aim for the future? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
