Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki is eagerly anticipating the return of star guard Kyrie Irving for the upcoming NBA season, believing it will solve the team's biggest weakness. Irving missed the entire 2025-26 campaign with a torn ACL, but the team is building momentum with a recent 149-128 win over the Chicago Bulls on April 13, 2026, and a current two-game winning streak.
What did Dirk Nowitzki say about Kyrie Irving's return?
In a recent interview with WFAA's Joe Trahan, Nowitzki pinpointed the point guard position as the Dallas Mavericks' main problem last season. He strongly believes Irving's comeback addresses that directly. "The most exciting thing is, on the court, what struggled last year for the Mavs were the point guard position." Nowitzki stated. He added that Irving, after a year off watching, should be ready and excited, likely with a plan to play off franchise cornerstone Cooper Flagg.
Nowitzki's excitement centers on the new backcourt tandem. He thinks Irving's year of observing Flagg's game will lead to instant chemistry. Irving is entering a contract year set to earn around $39.5 million, with a $42.4 million player option for the 2027 summer. His health and performance are vital for the Mavericks' playoff hopes, which you can track on our [injuries](/injuries) page.
Why are the Mavericks considered a potential surprise team?
Former NBA champion Richard Jefferson sees the Dallas Mavericks as a team that could shake up the Western Conference. On the Road Trippin' podcast, Jefferson argued the Mavs have the high-level talent to make noise if healthy. "Dallas, they could pop up," Jefferson said. He clarified they might not be a top-six seed but could realistically emerge from the play-in tournament without shocking anyone.
Jefferson's confidence stems from Cooper Flagg's adjustment to the NBA and Irving's impending return. The team's recent form shows two wins in their last five games (WWLLL), but they are currently on a two-game winning run. This indicates potential growth as the roster gels. Offseason additions like Santi Aldama, Zaccharie Risacher, Marcus Sasser, and Tarik Beberovic, plus re-signings of Moussa Cisse and Naji Marshall, provide depth.
What is the outlook for the Mavericks' upcoming season?
The combination of a healthy Kyrie Irving and a sophomore Cooper Flagg creates a dynamic offensive core. Irving's elite ball-handling and scoring can create open looks for Flagg, while Flagg's versatility can ease the playmaking burden. Their success will depend on defense and consistency.
Financially, Irving's contract situation adds another layer. His player option decision next summer will loom over the season, making his performance directly tied to the franchise's long-term planning. The front office has shown commitment by securing key role players to multiyear deals, building a squad around its stars.
Fans wanting to follow the team's progress can check the latest [standings](/standings) and [stats](/stats). The Mavericks' potential is clear, but converting it into wins requires avoiding the injury troubles that plagued them last year. The upcoming season offers a fresh start with a revamped and motivated roster aiming to exceed expectations.
