CONFIRMED Dallas Mavericks projected 2025-26 Roster organized staters and bench…see more
The Dallas Mavericks have officially unveiled their projected roster for the 2025–26 NBA season, showcasing a stunning blend of superstar power, veteran presence, and youthful talent. Following a dramatic offseason defined by bold trades and headline signings, the Mavericks are entering a new era—one without Luka Dončić, but with no shortage of firepower.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the Mavericks’ projected starting lineup and bench rotation heading into the new season.
Returning from an ACL injury suffered late last season, Kyrie Irving is expected to rejoin the starting five by midseason. Despite the injury setback, Irving recommitted to the Mavericks by signing a three-year, \$119 million contract. His elite ball-handling, scoring, and leadership will be critical to the Mavericks’ playoff aspirations.
In one of the biggest offseason surprises, Thompson joined the Mavericks via a sign-and-trade deal with the Golden State Warriors. Known for his championship pedigree and deadly perimeter shooting, Thompson is expected to provide immediate impact, spacing the floor alongside Irving and adding veteran stability.
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg is considered a generational talent. At 6’9″, the Duke standout is expected to be a two-way force—capable of guarding multiple positions while also contributing offensively as a slasher and shooter. Flagg is already drawing comparisons to young Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum.
Acquired in a blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, Anthony Davis brings All-NBA caliber defense, rebounding, and inside scoring. Health will remain a concern, but Davis at full strength gives Dallas a defensive anchor and offensive versatility.
Returning for his third season, Lively is poised for a breakout year. After flashes of brilliance in 2024, injuries cut his campaign short. Now healthy, Lively’s length and rim protection will be key, especially with Davis as his frontcourt partner.
D’Angelo Russell – Brought in to manage the point guard duties until Irving is fully back, Russell offers scoring and playmaking off the bench.
Dante Exum – A fan favorite, Exum re-signed with Dallas and is expected to play meaningful backup minutes as a defensive-minded combo guard.
Caleb Martin– Acquired midseason last year, Martin provides tough perimeter defense and streaky scoring.
Daniel Gafford – The energetic big man offers valuable rim-running and rebounding off the bench, and he remains a key backup to Lively.
Ryan Nembhard– The rookie guard from Gonzaga signed a two-way contract and is expected to split time between the NBA and G-League, adding playmaking depth.
Melvin Ajinca, Kai Jones, Dwight Powell, Kessler Edwards, Jamarion Sharp, Moussa Cisse – These players round out the roster, offering depth and flexibility in case of injury or rotation shake-ups.
The 2025–26 Mavericks look drastically different from the team that opened the 2024 season. The departure of Luka Dončić was monumental, but Dallas quickly pivoted, building a more balanced, defensively sound roster centered around Anthony Davis, Irving, and the high-upside rookie Cooper Flagg.
Offensively, the Mavericks will rely on spacing, movement, and inside-out play. Defensively, Davis, Flagg, and Lively could form one of the most intimidating frontcourts in the league. If Klay Thompson and Kyrie Irving stay healthy, the Mavericks could make a deep playoff push.
The bench depth, now bolstered with experienced veterans and energetic youth, gives head coach JJ Redick plenty of tools to mix and match lineups throughout the season.
The 2025–26 Mavericks may have lost a franchise cornerstone in Dončić, but what they’ve gained is a roster filled with flexibility, talent, and ambition. With a smart mix of established stars and emerging youth, Dallas is poised to compete in a loaded Western Conferenc
e—and perhaps surprise everyone with a deep postseason run.