The Dallas Mavericks enter the new season after a major offseason, but recent results like their 149-128 win over the Chicago Bulls on April 13 are an outlier in a tough stretch. Their last five games show a 1-4 record, with losses to the Phoenix Suns (112-107), Milwaukee Bucks (123-99), Golden State Warriors (137-131), and New Orleans Pelicans (129-111) preceding that victory. This context is vital for judging the impact of their summer moves, which saw a complete overhaul from the front office down to the bench.
It's too early for a definitive answer, but the Mavericks aggressively targeted specific weaknesses. They brought in a new president in Masai Ujiri, a new GM in Mike Schmitz, and installed Dusty May as head coach. On the court, they drafted Morez Johnson Jr. and Sergio de Larrea. Trades sent AJ Johnson to Memphis and Ryan Nembhard to Atlanta, bringing back Santi Aldama, Tarik Biberovic, and Marcus Sasser.
Veterans departed, too. Marvin Bagley III signed with Denver, and Khris Middleton returned to Washington. Brandon Williams and Dwight Powell remain unsigned, with Powell's long tenure not guaranteeing a spot amid a crowded frontcourt. The goal was clear: fix the shooting and playmaking. But whether it's enough for a playoff push, rather than just the Play-In, is the big question.
The team made clear strides in addressing their three-point shooting and backcourt depth. Tarik Biberovic arrives as a proven EuroLeague shooter from Fenerbahce, where he scored a career-high 26 points in a playoff game on April 28, 2026. He was a key part of their 2025 championship run.
Santi Aldama provides consistent floor spacing, having shot at least 35% from deep the last two NBA seasons. His inside-out game and ability to mentor fellow Spaniard Sergio de Larrea are added bonuses. Then there's Marcus Sasser. He shot a blistering 41.5% from three-point range for Detroit last season. His defensive intensity and shot creation fill a direct need behind Kyrie Irving.
Even with these additions, some roster imbalances persist. The Mavericks could use another reliable playmaker. Caleb Martin offers point-of-attack defense, but his offensive game is situational. The team has several wing defenders but lacks a true stopper for opposing guards.
This hole in point-of-attack defense remains a glaring issue. Opponents have exploited it during their recent 1-4 skid. Addressing this and finding better roster balance will be a focus as the season progresses. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
The new pieces now need to gel under Coach May's system. The early-season schedule will test them immediately. Integrating Aldama's spacing, Biberovic's shooting, and Sasser's energy off the bench is the first task. How the center rotation shakes out, potentially without Dwight Powell, is another storyline to watch.
Their recent form, including that high-scoring 149-128 win, shows offensive potential. But the four losses before it highlight the defensive work required. The offseason moves addressed clear needs, but turning that into wins in a competitive Western Conference is the next challenge.
