The Dallas Mavericks have once again revamped their training staff, focusing on a healthier future after a season marred by injuries. General Manager Nico Harrison has fired longtime head athletic trainer Dionne Calhoun and athletic performance director Keith Belton, as the franchise seeks to rectify past missteps. With only three players playing more than 57 games, the toll of injuries, including serious ones to Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, proved fatal to the team's playoff hopes.

The recent firings come amid reported dysfunction within the training staff, further exacerbated by Harrison's decisions that alienated key players, including Luka Dončić. The Mavericks have seen a revolving door of staff in recent offseasons, raising questions about leadership and trust. This latest shake-up aims to restore health protocols and rebuild a culture of accountability as the organization prepares for the upcoming season.

Dallas Mavericks' recent trade involving Luka Doncic has left fans fuming, especially as the team suffered post-trade with a 13-20 record. The Mavericks acquired Anthony Davis, who then became sidelined for much of the season due to injury. Key players such as Kyrie Irving and Daniel Gafford also faced injury setbacks, leading to a disappointing failure to make the playoffs. As a consequence, general manager Nico Harrison has made significant staff changes, including firing the athletic performance director and head athletic trainer.

With Doncic's departure and an aging roster, the Mavericks face a daunting rebuild. The team must navigate contract expirations for young talents and the uncertainty surrounding Davis and Irving's futures as they approach their mid-30s.

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly looking to acquire a big man to complement Luka Doncic, particularly focusing on Daniel Gafford from the Dallas Mavericks. ESPN's Tim McMahon suggests that a trade could be on the horizon, following the team's previous successful deal that brought Doncic to LA.

With Gafford entering the final year of his contract and potentially seeking a starting center salary, complexities arise with the Lakers' salary cap. McMahon outlines a trade package involving Rui Hachimura and a first-round pick, but cautions that the Lakers may be hesitant to include key players like Austin Reaves, who has been deemed untouchable by management.

As the situation unfolds, the Lakers must navigate the financial intricacies of extending Doncic while balancing their roster to maintain championship aspirations.

The Dallas Mavericks faced a tumultuous 2024-2025 season, transitioning from an NBA Finals appearance to an injury-ridden campaign. Key player Kyrie Irving suffered a torn ACL, which significantly impacted his performance, averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists before his injury. Despite a late push, the Mavericks secured a place in the play-in tournament but fell short of the playoffs, losing to the Memphis Grizzlies.

Looking ahead, several Mavericks, including Irving, are in pivotal contract situations. Irving holds a player option worth over $43 million for the 2025-26 season, while Dwight Powell, who has been with the team since 2014, also has a player option. Unrestricted free agents Dante Exum and Spencer Dinwiddie played key roles but may not return. Young talents like Brandon Williams and Kai Jones also face uncertain futures as they enter free agency. With potential roster changes looming, the Mavericks must strategize to rebound from last season's chaos.

Daniel Gafford made his much-anticipated return to the Dallas Mavericks after a 21-game absence, showcasing his skills with 17 points and 7 rebounds. However, the Mavericks suffered a surprising loss to the Brooklyn Nets, who came into the game with a 24-51 record. Despite leading by 10 points in the fourth quarter, Dallas couldn't hold on as the Nets capitalized on back-to-back three-point plays to take the lead. Spencer Dinwiddie and Klay Thompson missed crucial shots late, sealing the Mavericks' fate at 113-109.

This loss is particularly disheartening, as the Mavericks were vying for a play-in tournament spot with only six games left in the regular season. Coach Jason Kidd noted the team's struggles, especially against the Nets, who managed to drain 20 three-pointers. Gafford's return was a silver lining, receiving a warm welcome from the crowd, and his alley-oops served to energize his teammates. The Mavericks' hopes now hinge on the health of their frontcourt as they await the return of Dereck Lively II, who has been out since January.