Dallas re-signed Russell, adding a veteran floor general to balance the backcourt alongside emerging guards. Russell’s playmaking pairs with improved shooting to anchor second-unit productivity, creating a multi-faceted fantasy asset with steady assist floors and improved scoring and decision-making when surrounding pieces click.

Russell is projected to handle ball-handling duties until Irving returns, delivering a reliable playmaking option alongside Flagg and Davis. His scoring and distribution should stabilize the offense and provide a steady fantasy floor while boosting lineups that rely on multi-category contributions.

Russell’s inclusion in the narrative evokes the Warriors’ use of trades to reframe a roster around a dynamic playmaker, suggesting Kuminga’s deal could be a catalyst for a larger asset move or a stabilizing trade piece if his development accelerates.

Russell signs to stabilize Dallas's backcourt after Irving's exit, aiming to provide playmaking and spacing for Flagg and Prosper. His fit with Exum and Hardy will shape the guard rotation as the Mavericks navigate roster trimming and development.

Russell anchors Dallas' backcourt with Irving out, driving fantasy floor through increased usage and facilitating Doncic. His role is pivotal as Dallas weighs Exum, Prosper, and Hardy, with cap constraints shaping the surrounding depth.