The Dallas Mavericks will kick off their 2026-27 Emirates NBA Cup campaign with a high-stakes reunion between Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. The league announced the full schedule, with Dallas facing Houston, Utah, Denver, and Phoenix in Group A matchups. Last result: Dallas Mavericks 149-128 Chicago Bulls (2026-04-13).
What’s the schedule for the Mavericks’ NBA Cup group stage?
The Mavericks open at home against the Houston Rockets on October 30, marking Kyrie Irving’s return after a season-ending ACL injury in February 2025. The matchup pits Irving against former teammate Kevin Durant, adding intrigue to the early-season clash. Dallas then hosts the Utah Jazz on November 6, featuring rising stars Darryn Peterson and Cooper Flagg. Both home games tip off at 7:00 p.m. local time, a shift from the team’s usual 7:30 p.m. slot.
On the road, Dallas faces Denver on November 24 (NBC/Peacock) and Phoenix on Black Friday (November 25). The Thanksgiving week trip tests the team’s depth against two tough Western Conference foes.
Why does this schedule matter for Dallas?
The NBA Cup offers a chance for early-season momentum and a $500,000 bonus for players. The Mavericks’ home games against Houston and Utah provide opportunities to build confidence, while the road trip to Denver and Phoenix will reveal their resilience. With Irving returning from injury, these matchups serve as a litmus test for Dallas’ playoff aspirations.
What’s next for the Mavericks?
After the NBA Cup group stage, Dallas will focus on climbing the Western Conference standings. Their recent form (1W-0D-4L) suggests room for improvement, but the Irving-Durant reunion and young talent like Peterson and Flagg could spark a turnaround. The Thanksgiving road trip will be a key indicator of their progress.
