The Dallas Mavericks are beginning their 2025 training camp in Vancouver, British Columbia, with practices scheduled at Simon Fraser University from Sept. 30 to Oct. 4. It marks the first time the franchise has hosted its camp in British Columbia, following the trend of NBA teams holding training in remote locations to foster chemistry and limit distractions.
The camp is closed to the public and sets the stage for Dallas’ four-game preseason slate in October. Head coach Jason Kidd and the front office chose Vancouver specifically for its distance from Dallas, with the aim of building camaraderie on a roster headlined by Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg.
All players are medically cleared to participate in camp except Kyrie Irving, who continues to rehab from a torn left ACL. Davis, who underwent retina surgery this summer, will take the floor in protective eyewear.
The Mavericks arrive at camp after an offseason of change. Kidd’s coaching staff was almost completely rebuilt, with championship experience added in Frank Vogel, Phil Handy, Jay Triano, and Popeye Jones, while longtime assistants Sean Sweeney, Alex Jensen, Jared Dudley, and God Shammgod departed for other opportunities. Contract extensions were secured with Irving, Daniel Gafford, and PJ Washington, providing long-term stability around new additions.
Media day in Dallas, held before the team’s departure, reflected a mix of optimism, recovery, and anticipation. Below is a detailed notebook featuring every key figure’s remarks and context as the Mavericks prepare for the 2025–26 season.
Jason Kidd Stresses Competition, Chemistry, and Staff Overhaul
Jason Kidd began his session with a reminder that media day is not a burden but a celebration of what lies ahead.
“No, this is the best part of the season for me,” Kidd said. “Are you excited? Yeah, I’m excited. We should all be excited. It’s like the first day of school, and everybody is ready to go.”
This year’s camp will be held in Vancouver, the first time Dallas has traveled to British Columbia for preseason training. Kidd explained that the choice was intentional, designed to isolate the team from distractions and allow both players and coaches to build closer connections.
“When you look at Vancouver, it’s a ways away from Dallas,” Kidd said. “As a group, we always talk about the players being able to hang out, but it also gives the coaches that opportunity too. We’ll have each other for a week. We’ve got a new coaching staff—pretty much a new front of the bench—but we have continuity with the team, 13 of the 15 back. That gives us a chance to bond.”
The head coach said daily practices will be supplemented with team meals and informal gatherings that emphasize chemistry off the floor.
“We’ll practice once a day and have time to hang out with the guys at breakfast, lunch, or dinner,” Kidd said. “For me, it’s also a chance to get to know some of the coaches. I’ve worked with Frank, Phil, Mike, and Drew in L.A., but the opportunity to work with Jay and hang out with JJ—who’s a brilliant mind—really excites me.”
Kidd recalled his own playing days in Vancouver when the city hosted the Grizzlies, noting the passion of the local fans.
“That was a long time ago, back when they were the Vancouver Grizzlies. I always enjoyed playing there,” Kidd said. “They had great fans and supported their team. It’s great to see basketball not just in Toronto but in Vancouver too. For Jay, it’s a homecoming, so we’re looking forward to him picking up the dinner bill.”
Asked about the team’s health entering camp, Kidd confirmed that every player except Kyrie Irving is ready to participate.
“Yes. As we all know, Kai is recovering from his ACL, but everyone else is able to participate in practice,” Kidd said. “That’s exciting, and hopefully we can continue to say that throughout camp.”
Dallas’ coaching staff underwent significant turnover this offseason, with assistants Sean Sweeney, Alex Jensen, Jared Dudley, and God Shammgod departing for new positions. Kidd said the changes reflected opportunity, not instability, and highlighted the caliber of the coaches now in place.
“It wasn’t a case of guys jumping ship—it was an opportunity for them to climb the ladder,” Kidd said. “Alex went to the University of Utah, Sweeney went to San Antonio, and Duds went to Denver. That’s a compliment to what we were doing here. Now we’ve got Frank and Jay, both former head coaches and champions. We added Popeye, who I played with as a rookie and who’s had success as a coach. That bench is full of knowledge. I’ve worked with Frank before, and Jay brings incredible experience, including internationally with the Olympics. I’m very excited about this staff.”
Kidd was also asked about Anthony Davis’ eye injury, which required surgery this summer. He said the incident stemmed from an in-game collision.
“He can probably answer it better, but from what I gathered it was when Gaff hit him,” Kidd said. “That’s the incident that caused the injury and led to surgery.”
When the conversation turned to Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, Kidd emphasized that the rookie will not be asked to carry the franchise immediately.
“I think it’s a great situation for Cooper,” Kidd said. “He has vets like AD and Kai who have been through it and can share wisdom. From a coaching perspective, I’ve been through it too. We’re not asking him to carry the weight of the Mavericks—we’re asking him to be Cooper Flagg, and that’s special. People talk about two different timelines, but we can only be in the moment—today. That goes for players and coaches. We’re here to win, and Cooper can help us do that.”
Flagg’s versatility, Kidd said, will be a key part of his early development, and his ball-handling duties will remain a focus.
“There’s no set starting lineup yet. This is going to be about competition, and we’ll figure it out by October 22,” Kidd said. “Some spots are guaranteed, others are open. We’ve got a deep team, and to win at a championship level there has to be sacrifice—only five can start. As for Cooper, yes, we’ll continue to let him handle the ball. He’s a willing passer with a high IQ. The more playmakers we have on the floor, the better the game flows. He can play every position, and it would be unfair not to challenge him.”
Kidd said he was pleased with how Flagg responded to being tested in Summer League.
“He handled it extremely well this summer,” Kidd said. “We told the world he’d handle the ball, and yes, he got tired, had turnovers, but he made great plays too. Winning is in his DNA. It would be unfair not to make him uncomfortable. He gives us something unique—if he can beat pressure, it makes the offense easier for everyone. He’s a willing passer with high IQ, so we’ll continue to explore that. I don’t label players as point guards or centers—except for D-Live, he’s definitely a center. But Cooper has a dynamic skill set that can help this team, and we’ll keep challenging him.”
Away from basketball, Kidd recapped his personal offseason, which included international travel and golf outings.
“I had an incredible summer. I spent three weeks in Norway—beautiful place, amazing food, never gets dark,” Kidd said. “I also went to Copenhagen, another incredible city where everybody rides bikes. Got in some golf, including the crew cup, and spent time in Montana seeing glaciers. I also had the honor of being part of a Hall of Fame team with USA Basketball. To be on that team with Kobe and LeBron, and to see Coach K, Jerry, Michael Redd, and Boozer again—that was very special.”
Finally, Kidd provided a clear update on Kyrie Irving’s status, cautioning against outside speculation.
“I’m not a doctor, but when we see Kai shooting, let’s not say he’s ahead of schedule,” Kidd said. “That’s bad reporting and unfair to him and the team. He looks on schedule, and positive things are happening, but he’s not ahead of schedule.”
Kyrie Irving is ‘Right on Schedule’ in ACL Recovery, Eyes Strong Return
Kyrie Irving entered media day knowing he would not take part in training camp, still recovering from a torn left ACL suffered on March 3 against the Sacramento Kings. The non-contact injury came as he planted awkwardly on a drive, ending his season and forcing surgery at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.
Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 50 games last season, earning his ninth All-Star selection before the injury. He was the only player in the NBA averaging at least 20 points while shooting 40% from three and 90% from the free-throw line.
On July 7, he declined his $43 million player option and signed a three-year, $119 million extension with the Mavericks. The deal includes a player option in the final season and ensured Dallas retained one of its cornerstones despite the uncertainty of his rehab.
Irving opened his media day session with a firm statement.
“By the way, first — I’m right on schedule, guys,” Irving said. “There’s consistency here. I’m right on schedule.”
Irving said the recovery process has tested him in multiple ways.
“It’s been up and down emotionally,” Irving said. “There are good days where you make progress, and then other days where you want to push your body but can’t. Still, it’s been a great journey. I’ve connected with others who’ve torn their ACL or dealt with traumatic injuries. We saw a few star players go down this year, and we’re all praying for each other, showing our progress. The best advice I got was to take my time. No timeline is perfect. Don’t compare it to anyone else—just enjoy the process. That’s what I’ve been doing.”
Irving declined to set a specific return date.
“No, I didn’t even approach it that way once I got injured,” Irving said. “Everyone has their own timeline—doctors, analysts, everyone will have an opinion. For me, it was about going internal and figuring out how I could push myself. I’ve been clear: I’m trying to be better than I was before, and that’s a hard task. I felt like I was in a great rhythm, able to play 40-plus minutes. Now it’s about getting back mentally. Physically, my talent and skill will catch up over time. I’m grateful for good teammates, patient coaches, and a medical staff giving me great advice. And I don’t want to put out dates. If you miss that date, then what? I’d rather just focus on each day and push myself.”
He admitted the night of the injury was one of the toughest moments of his career.
“At first it was tough even to watch the play back,” Irving said. “That heartbreak stayed with me for about a week. Where we were in the season wasn’t ideal—dealing with a very public trade and a lot of outside noise. When I got hurt, it felt like pressure was mounting. I thought about my contract year, my value, negotiations. I felt I was top 15 in the world, showing up every night. That wasn’t the position you want to be in heading into talks. But I took it in stride. My stepmom and agent, Shetellia, helped me with communication and building my contract the way I saw fit. People can debate the number, but I’m grateful. We have depth now, and I don’t mind sacrificing. Sometimes you give up money to have the best team and compete for a title. That’s better than everything being on my shoulders, or AD’s, or Cooper’s.”
Irving said his rehab has given him time to engage with fans in new ways.
“It’s been amazing,” Irving said. “I grew up in an era where connecting with your audience was through TV screens, highlights you recorded, or watching games live. Now it’s highlights on your phone and fast-paced, viral content. Being able to connect directly is just as important as being on the court. Building the Twitch community has been great. It lets me authenticate my voice and speak about the things I want to. I even did a stream last night—it was like my own media day, catching everyone up and praying for people. There’s a lot going on in the world, and I’m always empathetic to that.”
Asked about the Mavericks’ point guard situation until his return, Irving gave his backing to D’Angelo Russell.
“I think D-Lo will be fine, along with the other point guards,” Irving said. “Be patient with them. Competition for spots is good—it pushes everyone. Whoever comes out as the starter will have my full support. For me, when I’m cleared for five-on-five and can get integrated, I’ll be ready. Until then, it’s about guys earning respect with their habits every day. I know what I bring as one of the oldest guys on the team now. It’s crazy to say that, but it’s true.”
The guard acknowledged that the injury forced him to consider his basketball mortality more seriously than ever before.
“Yes, more than you’d think,” Irving said. “I’ve had four knee surgeries, and you have to be pretty crazy to keep coming back. I know there will be a time I’ll have to look in the mirror and be honest, but that time isn’t now. I want to play 18, 19, 20 years like some of my predecessors, to be remembered in NBA history. Tearing my ACL gave me a chance to work on a retirement plan, something I hadn’t thought about seriously before. Veterans told me to start preparing for life after basketball. That’s why I’ve been active on Twitch, traveling, doing things like New York Fashion Week. I take my passions outside the game seriously, but I’m still singularly focused on winning championships and putting my best foot forward for this team and our fans.”
Irving has been seen in recent workout videos shooting comfortably on the court, but both he and Kidd emphasized that does not mean he is progressing faster than expected.
Anthony Davis Cleared After Eye Surgery, Commits to Leadership Role
Anthony Davis begins his first full season in Dallas after being acquired in the blockbuster Luka Dončić trade last February. Davis played 51 games last season, averaging 24.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, earning his tenth All-Star selection despite an adductor strain and an eye injury that sidelined him for long stretches.
At media day, Davis explained the unusual way his session began — with him asking reporters about their own offseason.
“Before we start, I’ve got to ask y’all a question,” Davis said. “They told me to ask three media members how they prepared for the season. So—[selects reporters and hears answers about vacations, doctor visits, family time]. Congratulations to those celebrating milestones. Okay, perfect. Alright, now we can get to the questions.”
Davis said his eye injury, which required surgery this summer, came from an in-game collision.
“My eye feels great,” Davis said. “I’ve got some redness from the drops I use, but my vision is back and I’m ready to go. It happened when Gaff elbowed me and caused some problems. I always do a routine checkup in the summer, and they realized I needed surgery.”
The injury now requires him to wear protective goggles moving forward.
“Yes. That’s a mandate from my doctor—for the rest of my career,” Davis said. “I’m not too excited about it, but I’ve been wearing them all summer to get used to it. You’ll see me in protective eyewear this year.”
Asked if he has reached out to Amar’e Stoudemire, who wore goggles after eye issues of his own, Davis said the cases were different.
“I know his case, and his was worse than mine,” Davis said. “We’ve talked about it, but I haven’t reached out to him about it.”
Davis acknowledged that the trade last season was not well received by all Mavericks fans but said his message remains the same.
“Same as last year at my press conference: my goal hasn’t changed,” Davis said. “I want to bring a championship here. We’ve got a good team. The key is health—staying healthy. I’m happy and excited to be here, and I want to win here.”
Davis said he spent his summer balancing recovery, family time, and training.
“Yes. The recovery kept me out for four to five weeks, so I had plenty of family time with my wife and kids,” Davis said. “Once I healed, I had to put training into overdrive to catch up. It’s always about balance—you spend that summer with family because once the season comes, it’s go time.”
When Dallas won the draft lottery and secured the No. 1 pick to draft Cooper Flagg, Davis said he initially didn’t even realize it was happening.
“I was at home in L.A. Honestly, I forgot the lottery was even happening,” Davis said. “Suddenly I started getting texts saying ‘Cooper Flagg,’ and I didn’t know what they were talking about. Then I turned it on and realized we got the No. 1 pick. I called Nico right away—he was smiling ear to ear. It was a great moment.”
He said Flagg’s situation is unlike most top overall picks.
“He’s in a unique situation,” Davis said. “Usually the top pick goes to a rebuilding team and faces pressure to turn things around. Cooper’s joining a team that already has veteran talent. The pressure isn’t the same. We’ll ask him to be himself, to be Cooper Flagg, and we’ll put the pressure on ourselves—me, Kai—to lead. That way he can just focus on basketball and getting better each day.”
The forward was also asked about his long-standing fandom of the Green Bay Packers, which began during his early years in the NBA.
“Man, that game bothered me,” Davis said, referencing a recent Packers loss. “We should have won. Defensively, we weren’t ourselves. Offensively, we played well, but defensively, we’re a better team than that. As for being a Packers fan, I wasn’t into football when I came into the NBA. My coach at the time, Monty Williams, told me I had to pick a team. The Bears weren’t looking too good. Randall Cobb went to Kentucky, we were really cool, and when he got drafted by the Packers, I decided to cheer for whatever team he went to. We turned out to be really good, and I’ve been a Packers fan ever since—about 14 years now.”
Looking ahead, Davis said this will be his first full training camp with Dallas, and his leadership role has been emphasized by Kidd and president Nico Harrison.
“I’ve got to be vocal,” Davis said. “Training camps can get repetitive over a career, but for me, it’s about leading. Kidd and Nico told me all summer they wanted me to step up in that role, especially with Kai out. I’ve been texting teammates, trying to get them ready. Alongside Klay, we’re the oldest guys here, and we’ve got a young group. It’s about sharing my knowledge and leading them to success.”
He also spoke highly of D’Angelo Russell, his former Lakers teammate who signed with Dallas this summer.
“D-Lo pushes the pace, he can score, and he’s vocal,” Davis said. “There’s a narrative that he’s not a winner, but I’ve been close to him and I know that’s not true. We talked before he came here—he told me he was ready. He had other opportunities for more money, but he wanted to be here and bet on himself. We’re getting a motivated D-Lo who will give everything every night. And if he doesn’t, I’ll be on him.”
Cooper Flagg Balances Rookie Goals With Championship Expectations
Cooper Flagg enters his first NBA training camp as the No. 1 overall pick, drafted by the Mavericks after the franchise defied long odds to win the lottery. At just 18, he joins a roster headlined by Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson. Unlike most top picks who arrive on rebuilding teams, Flagg steps into a veteran-heavy environment where the emphasis is on contributing right away to a contender.
Flagg’s reputation was cemented during his lone season at Duke, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks across 37 games while shooting 48.1% from the field, 38.5% from three, and 84.0% from the line. He led the Blue Devils to the Final Four and set a Cameron Indoor record with a 42-point performance, adding to his growing legend.
That production translated quickly into flashes of NBA readiness at Summer League. Flagg averaged 20.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in two appearances in Las Vegas. His debut showed some jitters—he scored 10 points on 5-for-21 shooting but added six rebounds and four assists. In his second game, he erupted for 31 points on 10-of-20 shooting, including three made threes and a highlight block, placing him among the top 15 scorers at the event.
“Just learning the spacing and style of the NBA,” Flagg said. “It was a great experience to feel out what the next level is like, take the film, and learn from it moving forward.”
Flagg said that much of his rookie focus will be on embracing versatility and carving out ways to contribute within different lineups. Jason Kidd has already encouraged him to be comfortable handling the ball and initiating the offense.
“For myself, it’s just about being me—going through it, not changing for anybody, impacting the game in a lot of ways, and doing whatever I can to impact winning,” Flagg said. “Coach Kidd and I have talked about being versatile. We’ve got a bunch of guys who can do a lot of different things, so we want to use that to our advantage. Whoever gets the rebound can push and initiate the offense. He told me that before Summer League—putting the ball in my hands, letting me bring it up. That versatility is going to be a big part of it.”
He added that ball-handling will not fall on one player, but be shared by a handful of teammates.
“I don’t know if it’ll be a lot, but between three or four different guys, it’ll happen,” Flagg said. “If we get a stop, anyone can get it off the rim and go. Between me, PJ, Max, AD—we can all bring it up and initiate the offense. We’ve talked about letting that happen organically.”
Unlike most top picks, Flagg will not be asked to immediately carry a rebuilding team. Instead, he is joining a roster built to compete now, which he views as a unique advantage.
“I’m just looking forward to the journey,” Flagg said. “We’ve got an incredible group of guys. Everybody’s been great so far, and I’m excited to start competing and trying to win.”
When asked about goals, Flagg didn’t hesitate to lay out both personal and team ambitions.
“Yeah. I’d like to be Rookie of the Year,” Flagg said. “As a team, the goal is obviously to win a championship. But like I said earlier, if I stay true to myself and what got me here, the personal goals will work themselves out.”
Flagg also said he has already leaned heavily on the experience of Davis and Irving, both former No. 1 overall picks who understand the pressures of high expectations.
“It’s been cool,” Flagg said. “Those are two of the best vets in the league, some of the most experienced guys. Having the chance to learn from them—spending time, getting on the court, picking their brains—it’s been huge for me.”
Even as a highly touted prospect, Flagg admitted his biggest challenge so far is figuring out how to mesh with different lineups and maximize his impact.
“Just fitting in—different lineups, different guys on the court, finding ways to impact winning no matter how small,” Flagg said.
He added that he isn’t entering with a single skill circled as his calling card.
“I’m not sure yet,” Flagg said. “I just want to impact the game in different ways. Some nights it’ll be defense—being versatile, guarding different positions, getting deflections. Other nights it might be something else. I’m just going to help however I can.”
Flagg’s early weeks with the Mavericks have already brought him face-to-face with basketball royalty. At Dirk Nowitzki’s annual charity tennis event, he got his first chance to meet the Dallas icon.
“I thought it was really cool,” Flagg said. “That was my first time meeting Dirk in person and getting to be around him. It was really cool to hang out and see the impact that he still has here in Dallas.”
Soon after, he crossed paths with Michael Jordan at the Ryder Cup.
“The Ryder Cup was incredible,” Flagg said. “I’ve never seen a golf environment like that—so competitive, people chanting. It was cool. Meeting Michael Jordan…that’s my GOAT. That’s who I’ve always seen as the GOAT in my household. It was a dream come true. He took the time to meet me, and that was really special.”
Inside the locker room, Flagg has also been quick to bring levity.
“I just feel young,” Flagg said with a laugh. “I think it’s funny to call the older guys uncle—even D. Lively, and he just turned 21. I’m just trying to make them feel old. PJ said I can’t call him that anymore, though.”
He also touched on the possibility of sharing Rookie of the Year honors with another Dallas athlete—Paige Bueckers, who recently won the WNBA award with the Wings.
“I haven’t yet,” Flagg said of reaching out to Bueckers. “Congrats to her—she was balling out all year. It’d be really cool if we both win Rookie of the Year in Dallas.”
Reflecting on the whirlwind of being drafted No. 1 overall, Flagg admitted that reality still feels surreal.
“It’s surreal,” Flagg said. “I don’t know if it’ll ever really set in. I’m grateful, blessed to go through it with my family and loved ones. It was an incredible experience.”
Klay Thompson Eyes 50-40-90 Season, Sees Championship Potential
Klay Thompson enters his 15th NBA season under contract and his second with the Dallas Mavericks after joining the franchise in 2024 following a long run with the Golden State Warriors. The five-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion is coming off a season in which he averaged 14.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists across 72 games, shooting 41.2% from the field, 39.1% from three, and 90.5% from the free-throw line.
At media day, Thompson said he felt rejuvenated after the transition from Golden State and the challenges of last year in Dallas.
“I just feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders,” Thompson said. “This is a fresh start. I loved my time in Golden State—13 years, four championships, incredible memories. But sometimes change is necessary. I’m excited to be here in Dallas and to help build something special.”
He reflected on how the offseason gave him time to reset both mentally and physically.
“This offseason was big for me,” Thompson said. “I got a chance to really take care of my body, get back into a routine, and prepare for what’s ahead. Being in a new environment has given me a lot of energy.”
Thompson said he has already built chemistry with his teammates through workouts and informal scrimmages.
“Playing pickup with the guys this summer was great,” Thompson said. “You can feel the talent we have. AD’s presence is huge. Cooper’s a really mature rookie—he’s going to be special. D-Lo brings a different dimension at point guard. PJ and Gaff are tough, physical. And I like playing with Dereck—he’s young, energetic, and wants to learn. It’s been fun.”
Asked what excites him most about this stage of his career with Dallas, Thompson pointed to the chance to be part of a balanced mix of veterans and young talent.
“I think it’s the combination of young talent and experienced vets,” Thompson said. “We’ve got Anthony Davis, Kyrie once he’s back, myself—and then young guys like Cooper and Dereck who are eager to grow. That’s a great mix. I think we can do something really good here.”
Thompson acknowledged that stepping into a new role after so many years with the Warriors has required adjustments.
“Of course it’s different,” Thompson said. “I was part of a dynasty, and everything was built around Steph, Draymond, and me. Here, I’m a piece of a bigger puzzle. I’m fine with that. My job is to space the floor, defend, and bring experience. I don’t need to be the guy taking 20 shots a night. I want to fit in, and I think that’ll help us.”
He was asked what it meant to bring championship experience to a team still shaping its identity.
“It means a lot,” Thompson said. “When you’ve been through the grind—82 games, playoffs, Finals—you understand what it takes. You know the little things: communication, staying locked in defensively, keeping your composure. Those are things I can share with my teammates.”
Thompson also emphasized the importance of setting a tone during training camp in Vancouver.
“I love that we’re going to Vancouver,” Thompson said. “I think getting away from home helps you bond. You eat together, practice together, hang out after. That builds chemistry. For me, camp is about laying a foundation—building habits, getting everyone on the same page.”
While his legacy with the Warriors will always remain, Thompson said his focus is only on the Mavericks.
“I’ll always be grateful for Golden State,” Thompson said. “But my focus now is Dallas. I want to write a new chapter. We’ve got a chance to do something special here, and I’m motivated.”
Dereck Lively II Returns Healthy, Adds Expanded Offensive Game
Dereck Lively II enters his second season with the Mavericks after an up-and-down rookie campaign disrupted by injuries. The 7-foot-1 center underwent surgery for bone spurs in his right foot on July 15 after previously dealing with a stress fracture, limiting him to just 36 games last season, where he averaged 8.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 29 starts. Before the injury, he had shown flashes of being a long-term defensive anchor for Dallas.
At media day, Lively said his focus has been on getting healthy and using the summer to reset.
“This summer was about getting back to 100%,” Lively said. “The surgery went well, and now it’s just about putting the work in every day to make sure I’m ready for camp. I want to be able to give my all without worrying about my body.”
He explained how the recovery process challenged him both physically and mentally.
“It’s tough sitting out and watching,” Lively said. “You want to be out there helping your teammates, but sometimes the best thing you can do is listen to the doctors and take it slow. I tried to use the time to study film, learn from the vets, and prepare for when I’m back.”
Lively emphasized that having Anthony Davis in the locker room will accelerate his growth.
“AD is one of the best bigs to ever do it,” Lively said. “Just being able to watch him—how he prepares, how he takes care of his body, how he communicates—that’s going to help me so much. I’ve already learned little things from him, like angles on defense and timing when contesting shots. That’s invaluable.”
He also credited Daniel Gafford for helping him adjust to the physicality of the NBA.
“Playing with Gaff every day is a battle,” Lively said. “He’s so physical, so active. That pushes me to bring energy and toughness. Having him as a teammate is great because you have to raise your level.”
When asked about his role alongside the Mavericks’ crowded frontcourt, Lively said he is focused on being versatile and doing whatever is needed.
“Whether it’s starting, coming off the bench, playing next to AD, or backing him up, I just want to be ready,” Lively said. “We’ve got a lot of size, and that’s going to be a strength. For me, it’s rim protection, rebounding, and finishing around the basket. If I can do those things consistently, I’ll help us win.”
Lively said he also spent the offseason working on expanding his offensive game, including becoming a more reliable shooter.
“Yeah, I’ve been putting a lot of time into my jumper, especially corner threes,” Lively said. “I want teams to respect me out there, not just sit in the paint. If I can hit shots consistently, it opens up the floor for everybody else.”
Lively admitted he has taken notice of rookie Cooper Flagg’s maturity and competitive drive.
“Coop is the real deal,” Lively said. “He doesn’t act like a rookie—he works, he listens, and he competes. You can see why he went No. 1. I think we’re going to build a connection on the court that’s really exciting.”
He also spoke about the challenge of finding consistency as a young big man.
“The biggest thing for me is being consistent every night,” Lively said. “You can’t have games where you disappear. It’s about bringing the same energy and focus, whether it’s game one or game 82.”
Asked about training camp in Vancouver, Lively said he is looking forward to the chance to bond with teammates away from home.
“I think it’s perfect,” Lively said. “You get away from distractions, you’re just with the team, and you build chemistry. That’s what we need, especially with all the new faces.”
Lively concluded by stressing his desire to contribute to a winning culture in Dallas.
“I want to be part of something bigger than myself,” Lively said. “I want to help bring winning basketball back to Dallas, and I’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen.”
P.J. Washington Embraces Leadership, Mentorship Role With Flagg
P.J. Washington returns to Dallas for his first full season after arriving in a midseason trade from Charlotte last year. The 6-foot-7 forward averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 57 games last season. This summer, he signed a four-year, $88.8 million contract extension with the Mavericks, keeping him under contract through 2029-30 and making him ineligible for trade this season under NBA rules.
Washington said the extension represented more than just financial security — it was a sign of mutual commitment between him and the franchise.
“It felt good,” Washington said. “I wanted to be here. They wanted me here. That’s what matters. It’s about building something, not just being a part of a team. I feel like I can grow here and we can accomplish something together.”
When asked what excites him most about this year’s roster, Washington pointed to the blend of veteran leadership and young energy.
“We’ve got a great mix,” Washington said. “AD’s leadership, Klay’s experience, Kyrie once he’s back, Coop coming in as the No. 1 pick, D-Lo running the point — we’ve got a lot of different guys who can step up. My job is to fit in anywhere I can, defend, rebound, space the floor, and just play winning basketball.”
Washington acknowledged that his role will continue to involve heavy minutes guarding multiple positions.
“Coach Kidd and I have talked about it a lot,” Washington said. “I’ll be guarding different positions every night — one through five, really. That’s what I take pride in. Being versatile defensively and making it tough on whoever I’m matched up with.”
On offense, he said spacing the floor remains one of his top responsibilities.
“Just shooting with confidence, making the right plays,” Washington said. “I know we’ve got a lot of guys who can create — Kai, D-Lo, AD, Coop — so it’s about being ready when the ball comes, knocking down shots, and keeping the offense moving.”
Washington also emphasized his growth as a locker room voice, something he said has been encouraged by teammates and coaches.
“I’ve been more vocal,” Washington said. “That’s not always natural for me, but being around guys like AD and Klay has pushed me. They’ve told me that my voice matters. So I’m trying to speak up more — in huddles, in practice, in games.”
The 27-year-old laughed when asked about his younger teammate Cooper Flagg calling him “unc.”
“He called me that one time, and I told him it’s done,” Washington said. “I’m not letting him call me unc anymore. He’s just trying to make us all feel old.”
Washington said training camp in Vancouver will be valuable for the team’s chemistry.
“It’s going to be big for us,” Washington said. “When you get away like that, you have no distractions. It’s just basketball and bonding. That’s how you build relationships that carry into the season.”
He also made it clear what he believes the Mavericks’ ceiling can be if the team stays healthy.
“I think we can be really good,” Washington said. “The key is health. If we’re healthy, I don’t see why we can’t compete with anybody. That’s the mindset we’ve got to have.”
D’Angelo Russell Ready to Steady Backcourt Until Irving’s Return
D’Angelo Russell joined the Mavericks this offseason on a two-year, $11.7 million contract using the taxpayer midlevel exception. The second year is a player option, giving him flexibility while providing Dallas with an experienced point guard while Kyrie Irving recovers from his ACL tear. Russell averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists across stints with the Lakers and Nets last season, and he is expected to open camp as the starting guard.
Russell said the decision to sign with Dallas came down to opportunity and fit.
“I think the motivation was going somewhere there was some semi mutual agreeance,” Russell said. “The NBA is a wild west — you never know where you’re gonna be. This is a good opportunity. I know how good the organization is from the outside looking in, and I wanted to be a part of that.”
He acknowledged that Kyrie’s injury created a natural role for him to fill, but emphasized that he did not see himself as just a stopgap.
“Obviously, with Kai out, there’s minutes available, but I’m not looking at it like I’m just holding down the fort,” Russell said. “I want to establish myself here, be consistent, and help us win games. When Kai comes back, I’ll adjust, but my mindset is to make an impact from day one.”
Russell reflected on how his career experiences prepared him for this kind of challenge.
“I’ve been through a lot in this league,” Russell said. “Highs, lows, trades, starting, coming off the bench — I’ve seen it all. That teaches you resilience. For me, it’s about bringing that to Dallas. I know what it takes to stay ready and to contribute in different roles.”
He said conversations with Anthony Davis, his former Lakers teammate, played a role in his comfort level with Dallas.
“AD and I go way back, and he told me great things about the situation here,” Russell said. “That made the decision easier. He said it’s a group that wants to win, and that’s what I want to be part of.”
Russell also pointed to the Mavericks’ mix of veterans and young talent as a major selling point.
“You’ve got AD, Klay, PJ, Gaff, Coop — it’s a good balance,” Russell said. “I think that’s what you want as a player. You’ve got guys who’ve won, guys who are hungry, and young guys with talent. That’s exciting.”
Asked what he brings to the team on the court, Russell said it’s about versatility and steadiness.
“I can score, I can facilitate, I can play off the ball,” Russell said. “Whatever’s needed, I can do. I’ve always prided myself on being able to adjust my game to fit with other guys. Here, it’s about making the game easier for AD, for Klay, for PJ, and helping the young guys too.”
He added that the fresh start was something he personally needed.
“Sometimes change is the best thing for you,” Russell said. “I had ups and downs in my last stop, and I just wanted a new environment, new energy. Dallas gives me that. I feel motivated.”
Training camp in Vancouver, he said, is the perfect place to set that tone.
“It’s ideal,” Russell said. “You’re away from distractions, just with the team. That’s how you build trust and chemistry. For me, it’s about showing who I am every day — on the court, in the locker room, everywhere.”
Russell made it clear that while his contract is short, his goals in Dallas are long-term.
“I want to be here and be part of this,” Russell said. “I know I’ve got to earn that, and I’m ready to.”
Daniel Gafford Focused on Health, Chemistry, and Defensive Edge
Daniel Gafford enters his second full season with Dallas after arriving in a 2024 trade from the Washington Wizards. Last year, he averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 57 games, establishing himself as a rim protector and lob threat. In the offseason, the Mavericks signed him to a three-year, $54.2 million extension that runs through the 2028-29 season.
At media day, Gafford said the extension gave him stability and confidence heading into camp.
“It feels good to know the organization believes in me,” Gafford said. “I just want to keep building on what I’ve done and help this team win. That’s all that matters.”
He emphasized that his role remains centered on defense and energy.
“My job is to protect the rim, rebound, run the floor, and bring energy,” Gafford said. “That’s who I am. I don’t need plays called for me — I know if I do my job, everything else will take care of itself.”
Gafford said the Mavericks’ frontcourt depth will be a strength this season, with Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, P.J. Washington, and rookie Cooper Flagg all capable of playing multiple positions.
“It’s a good problem to have,” Gafford said. “We’ve got size, athleticism, and versatility. AD can do everything. PJ can guard multiple positions. Coop is young but already advanced. And Dereck’s growth has been huge. That gives us so many options.”
He said competing with Lively in practice has already pushed him to raise his own level.
“Dereck’s a worker,” Gafford said. “He wants to learn, he wants to compete. We battle every day in practice, and that makes both of us better. It’s iron sharpening iron.”
Gafford also expressed excitement about playing alongside Davis for a full season.
“Having AD here changes everything,” Gafford said. “He takes pressure off everyone else. On defense, he can guard anybody. On offense, he draws so much attention. That makes the game easier for me. I can roll, finish lobs, and focus on what I do best.”
Asked about what he worked on this offseason, Gafford said conditioning and expanding his offensive polish were priorities.
“Conditioning was big for me — being able to play longer stretches and keep my energy high,” Gafford said. “I’ve also worked on finishing with both hands and just being more consistent around the rim. I don’t need to be fancy, just efficient.”
Gafford said the Vancouver training camp would be the perfect environment to build chemistry with both new and returning teammates.
“When you’re away like that, it forces you to connect,” Gafford said. “We’ll practice, eat, hang out — and that’s how you build a bond. For me, it’s about growing closer with the guys, because that shows up on the floor.”
He made it clear that his mindset going into the season is about consistency and reliability.
“I just want to be someone my teammates and coaches can count on every night,” Gafford said. “That’s what winning basketball is about — being dependable, doing your job, and playing for each other.”
Mavericks Enter Camp With Health Questions, Open Roles, and Renewed Optimism
The Mavericks head into training camp in Vancouver with cautious optimism and an emphasis on chemistry, health, and defined roles.
Jason Kidd and his retooled coaching staff made clear that the trip north is about isolation and bonding. The setting at Simon Fraser University gives the roster — from Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson to No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg — the chance to build habits away from distractions.
Health remains the theme hovering over Dallas. Kyrie Irving’s ACL recovery timeline pushes his return into 2026, but he said he is “right on schedule” and has found perspective during rehab. Davis enters camp fully cleared after eye surgery, though he will wear protective goggles moving forward. Dereck Lively II is back from foot surgery, while Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington begin new extensions as foundational pieces.
Flagg, meanwhile, enters a rare situation for a top pick: learning in a veteran-driven environment rather than being asked to carry a rebuilding team. His goals include Rookie of the Year, but he repeatedly emphasized fitting in and impacting winning.
Thompson, entering his second season in Dallas, spoke about deepening his leadership role. He stressed being a floor spacer, defender, and example for younger teammates while setting championship standards.
Kidd underscored that no starting lineup has been finalized, with only a few roles locked in. He emphasized that competition will define camp and that sacrifice will be necessary on a roster with multiple stars and established veterans.
Russell’s addition stabilizes the backcourt until Irving returns, and Washington spoke about stepping further into a vocal leadership role. Gafford echoed the same theme of reliability and chemistry.
The Mavericks’ 39–43 campaign last season still lingers, but media day made clear that the franchise is betting heavily on continuity, internal growth, and the mix of seasoned veterans with hungry young talent. With Vancouver serving as the backdrop, the message was consistent across the board: this group believes health, sacrifice, and cohesion can put Dallas back into contention.
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