Firstly, let’s start with a really fascinating one. The Dallas Mavericks.
Everybody involved in Basketball knows how detrimental the Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers trade was for the city of Dallas. With their young superstar gone, the team has fell from Post-Season regulars to now a real cellar dweller in the ultra competitive Western Conference. And to rub salt in the wounds, the main piece they got in that transaction, Anthony Davis was shipped off to Washington for next to nothing after less than a year as a Maverick.
The shining light in what has been an extremely challenging campaign for Dallas has been the 1 pick from the 2025 draft, Cooper Flagg.
Still only 19 years-old, the Maine native has been nothing short of a revelation on both ends of the floor all while carrying a widely injured and demotivated roster on his back in his rookie season.
Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks guards Dylan Harper #2 of the San Antonio Spurs during the game on April 10, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photos by Brandon Todd/NBAE via Getty Images)
With Flagg as the centrepiece, the Mavericks future is bright but they absolutely need to make effective decisions this summer to try and create a winning atmosphere again otherwise they might waste multiple years of contention while their generational talent is still on his rookie deal.
Hire Jesse Gould as General Manager
The Oklahoma City Thunder celebrate after winning the Western Conference Championship against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals on May 28, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
Following the firing of the highly controversial Nico Harrison last November, the Mavericks have had had two co-interim GMs at the helm: Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi with the view to hire a long term replacement ahead of the 2026 off-season.
Recent reports have claimed that Dallas’s owner Patrick Dumont is looking for an established “big name” for the position, highly esteemed individuals like Sam Presti and Brad Stevens have been mentioned but I don’t see why either would leave their current situations for a real project in Dallas.
In my opinion, the Mavericks should be looking at people who have extensive experience in winning and developing a positive team environment and an eye for spotting talent at the top and bottom of the NBA Draft. The man who ticks both of those boxes is the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Vice President of Basketball Operations, Jesse Gould.
Gould has been in OKC’s organisation for the last seventeen years having joined the franchise in 2009 as an Information Co-ordinator and impressively worked his way up to being Sam Presti’s deputy in an extremely successful front office who even won the most recent NBA title.
hunder general manager Sam Presti poses for a photo with Head Coach Mark Daigneault while holding the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy after Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by /NBAE via Getty Images)
The key to the Thunder’s dramatic turn around was how effective they were in the draft at identifying and developing talent that fit their long term identity. Having worked as OKC’s Director of Pro Evaluation and Basketball Research during this period Gould’s wisdom in this area would be incredibly beneficial for Dallas and the situation they find themselves in.
Although it might take some convincing Gould to leave for Texas as the 39 year-old has been in Oklahoma for a long period of time, the opportunity to have his own team to implement his highly effective strategies and ideas on in a big market would be one I think he would take.
Ace the 2026 NBA Draft
An overall view of the draft board following the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 25, 2025 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
The highly anticipated 2026 Draft is full of talent across the board and the perfect opportunity for a new front office to leave their mark on the team early. Following the conclusion of the regular season, Dallas currently hold the eighth best odds to win the NBA Draft Lottery.
In this simulation the Mavericks couldn’t receive lottery luck for the second year running and fell two spots to pick 10. Dallas also own the Thunder’s First Round Pick which currently conveys at pick 30 as-well as the Phoenix Suns Second Round Pick at number 48.
Draft Yaxel Lendeborg at Pick 10
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines speaks on stage during the Michigan Men's Basketball National Championship celebration at Crisler Arena on April 11, 2026 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images)
Despite playing the majority of his Michigan Wolverines victorious March Madnessrun with a nasty ankle injury, Yaxel Lendeborg looked a real step above the rest all year long using his 6ft9 size and well built frame to bully his opponents at the rim while also being a lock-down defender.
The Forward scooped up a massive collection of end of season accolades including the Big Ten Player of the Year, Big Ten All-Defensive Team and a Consensus First-Team All American.
Quite the resume for a player who spent three seasons at the JUCO level before eventually making it to D1 with the UAB Blazers.
The obvious drawback on Lendeborg is going to his age as he will turn 24 before his Rookie NBA campaign will begin but even being almost six years the senior to some of the other prospects in his draft class, the Dominican power-house has such a unique blend of skill and positional size that makes me think there is a long and successful NBA career ahead for him no matter how old he is.
For the Mavericks, adding a ready to go piece who can play anywhere in the front court to alleviate the pressure off Flagg is defiantly close to best case scenario with the tenth overall pick.
Draft Billy Richmond III at Pick 30
Billy Richmond III #24 of the Arkansas Razorbacks handles the ball during the first half against the High Point Panthers during the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
The well-publicised number of mid to late first round prospects turning down the draft in favour of returning to College for a reported healthy NIL check has seen the talent pool shrink some what but one of the most intriguing prospects projected in this range has decided to test the waters, Billy Richmond III.
The 20 year-old Forward stepped up for John Calipari’s Arkansas Razorbacks this season as a Sophomore starting nineteen games including all three NCAA Tournament matchups.
Richmond has good positional size and versatility and also possesses impressive court vision thanks to his remarkable basketball IQ.
He also produced encouraging percentages from the field and from the free-thrown line, on the contrast the Wing’s shooting from behind the arc is definitely still a work in process despite the form looking okay on tape.
The Mavericks would be adding a young skilled connective piece with a high motor which would be a perfect cost effective option to build an impactful amount of depth to their roster.
Draft Jaden Bradley at Pick 48
Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats dribbles the ball during the National Semifinal game of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Michigan Wolverines at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
Finding value in the second round is a difficult task but certainly not impossible for example the Sacramento Kings, who took the All-Rookie First Team lock Maxime Raynaud with Pick 42 in the 2025 NBA Draft.
At this selection I believe Dallas should target an experienced Guard who can affect the game well at both ends of the floor, the Big 12 Player of the Year Jaden Bradley fits that description perfectly.
At 22 years-old, Bradley still has plenty of years ahead of him and put together a remarkable final college season with the Arizona Wildcats leading them all the way to the Final Four.
The New York native is a proven winner and can command the floor while carrying the ball, a quality that is very important at the next level.
He also won’t be bullied off the ball with his solid frame and 6ft3 size and is just below a forty percent three point shooter swell, Bradley seems like the perfect mid second round pickup for a team looking to create a positive culture once again.
Navigate Free Agency
Resign
Khris Middleton- The perfect locker room presence with Championship experience, as he reaches the twilight of his career Khris Middleton would likely be available for a veterans minimum so a low risk move all round.
FOTO: Khris Middleton #20 of the Dallas Mavericks handles the ball during the game against the Los Angeles Clippers at American Airlines Center on March 21, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
Dwight Powell - A Maverick for eleven years now, Dwight Powell has experienced all the ups and downs of the franchise and like Middleton is a perfect presence off the court for a minimum contract.
Moussa Cisse - On a Two-Way last season, Moussa Cisse was a shining light in his limited game time. The 23 year-old is formidable in the paint and still has plenty of time to develop his offensive game, i would suspect a two year $4.5 million contract would work for both parties.
John Poulakidas - The former Yale sharp shooter, John Poulakidas was impressive at the back end of last season with his behind the arc efficiency and promising playmaking. Signing the Guard to another Two-Way contract initially with the view to converting at some point in the season would be a smart move.
FOTO: John Poulakidas #1 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on March 15, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Cavaliers 130-120. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
Let Walk/Don't Resign
Marvin Bagley III - The 2nd Overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, Marvin Bagley III has revived his career of sorts last campaign split with Dallas and the Washington Wizards. With teams always looking for proven talent at the five spot it is likely Bagley will command around $7.5-$10 million a year, I don’t think spending this amount on a backup is a smart idea at the point Dallas is at currently.
FOTO: Marvin Bagley III #35 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on March 27, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
Brandon Williams - At just 26 years of age, Brandon Williams enjoyed a career best season last campaign averaging 13 points and 3.9 assists in 66 games for the Mavericks. As a result of this it is expected many teams will be fighting to add him to their roster, At just 6ft1, and just a 23.2% three point shooter I think Dallas can find a replacement for much cheaper who will produce a similar output.
Ryan Nembhard - For similar reasons to Williams, I think Dallas may be priced out of Ryan Nembhard who impressed as an Undrafted Rookie especially as a playmaker averaging over 5 assists a game. I think moving on from the 23 year-old in search of more size and efficiency would be wise but I would totally understand if Nembhard is a Maverick for next season.
FOTO: Ryan Nembhard #9 of the Dallas Mavericks controls the ball during the second half against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center on March 23, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Sign a Proven Complimentary Piece
Tari Eason
Tari Eason #17 of the Houston Rockets drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on January 31, 2026 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)
On the final year of his Rookie deal, the Houston Rockets have to make a big decision on Tari Eason and I think what the Mavericks could offer the 24 year-old would be more than his current franchise would be prepared to.
A real physical powerhouse at 6ft8, Eason is a a solid behind the arc shooter at 35.8% as-well as being a menace on the glass on both ends of the court.
Adding a proven twenty-five minute NBA starter to fill in at the 3/4 is a real priority in my opinion and Eason is the best of the impending 2026 free agents.
With a healthy amount of cap-space available, Dallas could table an offer for the former LSU Forward of around $82 million dollars over four years.
Just over $20 million a year is an expensive outlay but whoever the new GM is needs to add someone of at least Eason's calibre to add a much needed spark to a new look roster for next year.
Explore the Trade Market
Attempt to find trades for:
Caleb Martin - Relatively expensive and regressing, best to try and move the 30 year-old when it is still possible.
Klay Thompson - Undoubtedly a Hall of Famer, Klay Thompson averaged a career low 11.7 points last campaign and will turn 37 next year. With a $17 million contract, Thompson unfortunately doesn't fit the Mavericks time line.
Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks celebrates a three point shot against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at American Airlines Center on April 12, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the GettyImages License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Naji Marshall - On the contrast to Thompson, Naji Marshall averaged a career high 15.2 points last season as he cemented his reputation as a valuable starter on a team friendly deal. For these reasons Dallas should explore a deal to 'sell high' on the 28 year-old for younger pieces or future draft capital.
PJ Washington - Another player which would see the Mavericks see a healthy return from is PJ Washington, the Forward has been a consistent good performer in Dallas and is the perfect complimentary Wing to elevate your ceiling in the Play-Offs. With the vision I think Dallas should go, if they can receive a younger 'Washington Replacement' with a higher potential I think through gritted teeth they should do it.
P.J. Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks attempts a layup defended by Donovan Clingan #23 of the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Moda Center on March 27, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
Three Mock Trade Ideas
Trade 1
Dallas Mavericks Receive - Bilal Coulibaly
Washington Wizards Receive - PJ Washington
Dereck Lively II #2 of the Dallas Mavericks has the ball stolen by Bilal Coulibaly #0 of the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on November 15, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Trade 2
Dallas Mavericks Receive - Kris Dunn, 2032 First via LAC, 2031 Second via LAC
Los Angeles Clippers Receive - Naji Marshall
Kris Dunn #8 of the Los Angeles Clippers passes the ball against Dwight Powell #7 and Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter of an NBA game at Intuit Dome on April 07, 2026 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
Trade 3
Dallas Mavericks Receive - Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Memphis Grizzlies Receive - Klay Thompson and Caleb Martin
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope #3 of the Orlando Magic is defended by Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks during the first half at American Airlines Center on November 03, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Final Projected Roster
Following all the moves I have mocked throughout this article this is what Dallas's roster and draft capital arsenal would look like.
Guards
Kyrie Irving
Kris Dunn
Jaden Bradley
Bilal Coulibaly
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Max Christie
John Poulakidis (Two-Way)
Forwards
Cooper Flagg
Tari Eason
Yaxel Lendeborg
Billy Richmond III
Centers
Derick Lively II
Daniel Gafford
Moussa Cisse
Dwight Powell
Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks poses for a photograph with Jon Scheyer during the 2025 NBA Draft - Round One on June 25, 2025 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Ava Hammer/NBAE via Getty Images)
Draft Capital
First Round
2027 First (Own) Top 2 Protected - if 3-30 goes to the Charlotte Hornets
2028 First (Own) Swap Best with the Oklahoma City Thunder
2029 First via the Los Angeles Lakers - Unprotected
2030 First (Own) Swap Worst with the San Antonio Spurs
2030 First via the Golden State Warriors - Top 20 Protected - 21-30 goes to Dallas
2031 First (Own)
2032 First (Own)
2032 First via the Los Angeles Clippers - Unprotected
Second Round
2027 2 Seconds
2029 1 Second
2030 1 Second
2031 1 Second
