The Dallas Mavericks are moving to bring back a familiar face, with veteran forward Dwight Powell expected to sign a training camp deal to return to the team. This news comes as Dallas prepares for camp next weekend, aiming to build momentum after a high-scoring 149-128 win over the Chicago Bulls on April 13, 2026.
Powell has spent nearly his entire NBA career with the Mavericks. He arrived in a trade during his rookie 2014-15 season and stuck around as a reliable backup. The 35-year-old even started most games during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns. Last season, Powell wasn't initially in the rotation plans due to the presence of centers Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and Anthony Davis.
Injuries changed everything. Davis played only 20 games before a trade, Lively required season-ending surgery after just seven appearances, and Gafford dealt with ankle problems. Powell ended up playing 63 games, starting 12, and averaged 3.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. His availability became important for a team handling a tough schedule.
Signing Powell addresses a need for experienced frontcourt depth. The Mavericks currently have a full 15-man roster after recently waiving Klay Thompson, who signed with the Miami Heat. A training camp deal allows the team to evaluate Powell's fit without a guaranteed regular-season commitment right away.
He provides a known quantity in the locker room and on the court. Powell understands the system and has established chemistry, particularly with star guard Luka Doncic. While his offensive numbers are modest, his screen-setting, energy, and professionalism are valued assets for a team looking to stabilize after a rough patch.
The potential addition of Powell comes at a time when the Mavericks are seeking consistency. Their recent form shows one win and four losses in their last five outings (WLLLL). Following the big win against Chicago, they lost 112-107 to the Phoenix Suns on April 9, 2026. Before that, they fell 123-99 to the Milwaukee Bucks on April 1 and 131-137 to the Golden State Warriors on March 24.
Losses to the Atlanta Hawks (120-135 on March 19) and New Orleans Pelicans (129-111 on March 17) rounded out that difficult stretch. Bringing in a veteran like Powell could help shore up the interior defense and rebounding that has been an issue. His presence might also allow younger bigs like Lively and Gafford to develop without being overburdened.
Training camp opens next weekend, and Powell's deal will be official then. There had been some speculation about other teams, like the Los Angeles Lakers, showing interest in him for center depth. Powell was even seen working out in Los Angeles recently, but a return to Dallas now appears to be the plan.
For the Mavericks, it's a low-risk move with potential upside. If Powell shows he can still contribute, he earns a spot. If not, the team can move on without major financial consequence. It's a pragmatic step for a franchise that values his long-term service and needs reliable players as they aim to climb the [standings](/standings). The focus now shifts to integrating him into the group and preparing for the preseason.
