D’Angelo Russell entered Dallas Mavericks training camp with one goal in mind — to find where he fits and make it count. After joining a roster full of size, experience, and expectations, the veteran guard said he’s focused on adaptability and leadership as the team builds a new identity.
Russell averaged 12.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 58 games during the 2024–25 season, providing steady playmaking and perimeter shooting before signing a two-year, $11.7 million deal with Dallas in the offseason. His experience running different systems has made him one of the more adaptable guards in the league — a trait that has already stood out in the Mavericks’ early practices.
“It’s good,” Russell said. “Camaraderie’s high. Think the energy’s high. A lot of guys are excited. Everybody’s excited. So you see that with our group.”
Head coach Jason Kidd praised Russell’s immediate presence as both a communicator and shotmaker during the team’s sessions at Simon Fraser University, noting his willingness to step in vocally from day one.
“He fits in. Day one, he was great,” Kidd said. “Being new, sometimes you can be hesitant to talk, but I thought his voice with his new teammates was at a high level, and we need that. He’s a vet. His skillset is extremely high, but I thought his voice was really good today.”
D’Angelo Russell is Finding His Place
Before the team arrived in Vancouver, Kidd made it clear that competition would shape the Mavericks’ starting lineup.
“There’s no set starting lineup yet,” Kidd said at media day. “This is going to be about competition, and we’ll figure it out by October 22. 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.”
Russell entered camp as a natural frontrunner for one of those open spots, especially with Kyrie Irving recovering from a torn left ACL. Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 50 games last season before his injury ended his year on March 3.
“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.”
Russell said his move to Dallas came down to fit and mutual trust.
“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 said Irving’s absence opens minutes but emphasized that he does not view himself as 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.”
Kidd said Russell’s shooting and decision-making have already stood out, praising how quickly he’s adapted to the Mavericks’ spacing and pace while giving the offense a steady perimeter threat.
“His voice,” Kidd said. “He’s a vet. He’s been in this league. His shooting — he’s shooting the lights out, shooting the ball at a high rate. His playmaking has been superb. That’s what we need from him: to find the open guy, play with some pace, shoot it when it’s open, and make plays for others. On defense, he’s competing, so he’s kind of told on himself.”
Embracing Leadership and Purpose With the Dallas Mavericks
Russell said not focused on perception or outside narratives — only on impact.
“No anticipation,” Russell said. “Just trying to be a basketball player — impacts winning.”
His mindset has been reinforced by teammates who know him best. Anthony Davis, who played with Russell in Los Angeles, vouched for his work ethic and motivation.
“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.”
Klay Thompson, who briefly overlapped with Russell in Golden State, echoed that sentiment.
“D-Lo brings a different dimension at point guard,” Thompson said. “He’s steady, he knows how to play, and he makes the game easier for other guys. You can tell he wants to fit in and help us win. I think he’s going to be big for us.”
Russell said his career has prepared him for this type of opportunity — a mix of leadership, sacrifice, and perspective.
“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 added that his versatility will help him complement the Mavericks’ rotation.
“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.”
Russell said the move to Dallas has already provided a spark.
“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.”
The Mavericks will hold one final practice in Dallas on Sunday before tipping off their preseason schedule Monday against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth.
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