D'Angelo Russell has signed a two-year, $13 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks, using the taxpayer midlevel exception. Russell, who previously played for the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists last season. He will likely take Kyrie Irving's starting spot as Irving recovers from a torn ACL, with a potential transition to a key reserve role once Irving returns. The second year of Russell's contract includes a player option.

The Mavericks are optimistic about Irving's return in early 2026, and Russell's arrival addresses an immediate need. Russell's career averages of 17.3 points and 5.7 assists per game make him a valuable player to assist in maintaining the team’s competitive edge during Irving's absence. This move reestablishes his partnership with former Lakers teammate, Anthony Davis, as they eye a successful season together.

The Dallas Mavericks secured a two-year, $13 million deal with D’Angelo Russell, enhancing their roster as they brace for the absence of star guard Kyrie Irving due to recovery from ACL surgery. Russell, a former All-Star, averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists last season, but brings experience and scoring ability, crucial for Dallas.

His signing, utilizing the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, fills the void left by Irving and complements the club's offensive strategy, particularly in pick-and-roll situations. Mavericks GM Nico Harrison emphasized the need for a playmaker to lead the offense in Irving's absence, presenting Russell as an ideal candidate.

The Dallas Mavericks have signed D'Angelo Russell to a two-year, $13 million deal, a move seen as a strategic response to Kyrie Irving's recent contract decision and his injury recovery. With Irving likely to miss most of the 2025-26 season due to a torn ACL, Russell serves as a much-needed placeholder at point guard, able to provide serviceable play until Irving returns. This signing is intriguing given Russell's offensive prowess against the backdrop of his defensive shortcomings.

Despite his past inconsistencies in high-pressure situations, Russell's ability to set up teammates and score makes him a valuable addition for Dallas. Historically a floor-raiser, he can help mitigate some of the impact of Irving's absence as the Mavericks await his return to full fitness. This signing also reflects a tactical shift for the Mavericks, who are committed to building a defense-focused roster.

The Dallas Mavericks are making waves in the offseason, securing free-agent guard D'Angelo Russell on a two-year, $13 million deal. This addition marks a significant step in reshaping the team's roster, which is centered around rising stars Cooper Flagg and Anthony Davis. Russell, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, is expected to enhance the Mavericks' backcourt and provide the scoring and playmaking skills they desire.

This strategic signing not only bolsters the Mavericks' offensive capabilities but also adds experience to a young roster that aims to compete more effectively in the Western Conference. Russell's versatility as a guard will be crucial as the Mavericks look to integrate him into their system alongside their new core. With the right fit, Dallas could become a formidable contender in the upcoming season.

The Los Angeles Lakers shook the NBA landscape by trading 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, a move that has set the stage for intriguing dynamics heading into the 2025-26 season. The Mavericks, despite last season's playoff disappointment, have retooled with the addition of rookie Cooper Flagg, selected first overall, along with seasoned stars Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson, making them formidable contenders.

Yet, the team's success hinges significantly on health, especially concerning Davis, who suffered an injury in his Mavericks debut. As the Mavericks eye a deeper playoff run, they find themselves in pursuit of a veteran point guard, particularly after Irving's torn ACL. Reports suggest D’Angelo Russell could reunite with Davis in Dallas, potentially reinforcing the Mavericks’ playoff ambitions.