Dallas Mavericks' 45-year countdown continues with Nos. 35-26, blending budding talent and seasoned pros who left an imprint. Dereck Lively II anchors the frontcourt with rim protection and efficient finishing; Daniel Gafford stacks elite FG% and paint presence; P.J. Washington adds versatile scoring and floor spacing for Dallas’ late-season push.

Erick Dampier, Wesley Matthews, Vince Carter, Dwight Powell, Tim Hardaway Jr., Shawn Bradley, and Harrison Barnes complete the batch, delivering rebounds, shooting, and veteran savvy. These names shape fantasy floor and playoff upside, with Barnes offering consistent scoring and versatility across a second-stint context.

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the Dallas Mavericks are amidst trade speculation surrounding a potential blockbuster deal. Rohan Raman from Atlanta Hawks On SI has suggested a three-team trade involving the Miami Heat, which could significantly alter the landscape for Dallas. The proposed deal would send Klay Thompson and PJ Washington to Miami while the Mavericks would acquire All-Star guard Tyler Herro and a second-round draft pick in 2031. The Mavericks are particularly interested in Herro due to his recent performance, averaging nearly 24 points per game last season. His addition would provide substantial support during Kyrie Irving's absence and allow him to grow alongside newly acquired Cooper Flagg.

However, the Mavericks might hesitate due to concerns over Herro’s defensive capabilities, compounded by Irving’s own defensive shortcomings. The Mavericks will need to weigh the benefits of adding a potent scorer like Herro against the potential defensive liabilities this pairing could create.

Klay Thompson stole the spotlight at Globe Life Field in Arlington, where he participated in a ceremonial first pitch for the Texas Rangers. In a collaborative event with the Dallas Mavericks, Thompson, alongside Mavericks center Dwight Powell, showcased their skills in a fun-filled batting practice session. The Rangers themed the night around the Mavericks, giving away jerseys featuring Thompson's No. 31. Thompson's connection to baseball runs deep, with his brother Trayce having spent seven seasons in the Major Leagues. Thompson's precise throw to Rangers' third base coach Tony Beasley demonstrated his athletic prowess, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

This event highlighted the blending of sports cultures in Texas, creating an entertaining crossover for fans of both the Rangers and Mavericks. As the summer heats up, fans can expect more thrilling events that bridge the gap between basketball and baseball.

The Dallas Mavericks are poised for a transformative 2025 NBA draft, holding the coveted first overall pick that could land them generational talent Cooper Flagg. This opportunity seemed unlikely just weeks ago, making it a monumental moment for the franchise.

In addition to the draft excitement, star point guard Kyrie Irving has opted to decline a $43.9 million player option, securing a three-year contract that includes a player option for the 2027-28 season. Irving, who has embraced his leadership role after Luka Doncic's recent trade, is set to return from an ACL injury that has sidelined him for a significant part of the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks are finalizing a lucrative three-year extension for Daniel Gafford, bolstering their frontcourt alongside Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II. Veteran Dwight Powell also plans to return for another season, continuing his long-standing commitment to Dallas.

The Dallas Mavericks made a bold and controversial move by trading their franchise star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, among others. This shocked many fans and analysts, especially considering Doncic's five-time All-NBA status at just 25 years old. The return for Doncic included Davis, who, while a former All-Star, is aging and injury-prone. Observers initially criticized the deal, especially in light of the recent market where lesser players like Desmond Bane fetched multiple first-round picks.

However, the trade's narrative shifted when the Mavericks secured the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft, positioning themselves potentially for a franchise-altering talent like Cooper Flagg from Duke. Also, reserve Dwight Powell's decision to pick up his player option reflects the shifting dynamics within the team. After a season where Powell averaged 2.1 points and 2.1 rebounds, he likely recognized the financial limitations of the free agent market.