Dallas aims for a title as Anthony Davis anchors a bigger, camp-tested frontcourt. At 268 pounds, he’s shedding weight as the season starts, with a plan that prioritizes durability and movement. A recent retina surgery requires goggles, but Davis insists vision is crisp and he’s feeling explosive.

The blend of Davis with Dereck Lively, P.J. Washington and Cooper Flagg, plus Kyrie Irving’s recovery timeline, sets Dallas up for a potent, versatile attack and a championship ceiling in 2025-26.

Daniel Gafford locked in a three year 54 million extension with Dallas, anchoring a frontcourt that features Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, P J Washington and Cooper Flagg. The move solidifies Dallas defense first identity and signals they expect the bigs to dominate the paint and run the floor with energy.

Gafford posted 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks on 70 percent shooting last season while staying healthy enough for 57 games. The Mavericks will stagger him with Lively II as they chase another deep playoff run, relying on a strong frontcourt rotation as Kyrie Irving deals with ACL recovery and the team emphasizes chemistry and continuity.

Dallas touts resilience and depth with the frontline. The group includes Lively II, Washington and Flagg, creating a versatile shell that can switch and protect while still finishing above the rim. Gafford calls the locker room a family like environment, a factor in his decision to commit through 2028 29 and chase sustained success.

Cooper Flagg's first Mavericks practice was a high-tempo showcase of intensity, communication, and defensive alignment. He pressed from drill to drill, drawing praise from veterans and teammates as Dallas leans into a length-based, disruptive identity.

The rookie's early adaptability and willingness to absorb new terminology suggest a quick path to an early, meaningful role in a defense-first rotation, with a preseason test looming against Oklahoma City.

The Dallas Mavericks rolled out a star powered media day, pairing Anthony Davis with Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson and a mix of seasoned playmakers and rising talents. The portraits highlighted a versatile, fantasy ready rotation led by Davis in the frontcourt alongside Irving and Thompson, with Lively II, Cissé and a fungible group of wings and guards ready to contribute across multiple stats.

Dallas showcased depth from Danté Exum, D'Angelo Russell and Dennis Smith Jr. to rookie-like movers such as Cooper Flagg and Ryan Nembhard, signaling a lineup built for pace, spacing and multi-cat production. The day pointed to a balanced approach under Vogel that could unlock consistent fantasy floors and big week-to-week upside.

Cooper Flagg enters the NBA with a patient development plan, blending into a veteran Mavericks roster headlined by Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson. He aims for Rookie of the Year but prioritizes wins and learning the pro game over instant stardom. Flagg’s versatility—on-ball defense, off-ball scoring, and transition lob threats—lets Dallas ease him in while chasing a championship. The dynamic age gap? Flagg is 18 turning 19, the youngest on the team, yet determined to maximize every opportunity.

Flagg embraces the mentorship of seasoned stars and the playful clash of “Unc” vibes with Dereck Lively II and others. His goal is to stay true to himself, letting personal milestones follow team success. With the Mavericks’ established pedigree and depth, the rookie could contribute from day one, while his real breakout may come as the season unfolds and Dallas trusts him in key moments.

LeBron James’s long, storied career provides a contrast in age and experience, underscoring Flagg’s unique rookie path. If he stays healthy and leverages learning from the vets, Flagg could evolve into a long-term cornerstone for Dallas, balancing steady progression with high-leverage plays that translate to fantasy dividends as the year advances.