Jason Kidd Out as Mavericks Coach After 5 Seasons The Dallas Mavericks announced on Tuesday that Jason Kidd has been relieved of his duties as head coach following five seasons with the franchise. The decision, described as a mutual agreement between Kidd and the team, comes two weeks after the Mavericks hired Masai Ujiri as their new team president and alternate governor. Kidd, a Hall of Fame point guard, led the Mavericks to their only championship as a player in 2011 but faced challenges in his coaching tenure. Kidd’s coaching career with the Mavericks included two deep playoff runs, culminating in a trip to the NBA Finals in 2024. This marked a significant achievement, as it followed a Western Conference Finals loss to the Golden State Warriors in 2022. However, the team’s fortunes shifted after the Mavericks traded star player Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2024-25 season. The trade, which occurred amid a lack of playoff success, led to the Mavericks missing the postseason in both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 campaigns. Kidd’s tenure also saw the team attempt to develop young talent, including the 2025 No. 1 overall draft pick, Cooper Flagg, who won the Kia Rookie of the Year award. However, the Mavericks’ decision to part ways with Kidd means Flagg’s development will now fall to a new coaching staff. Meanwhile, Kidd will transition to a front-office role, overseeing roster construction, player personnel, and scouting for the team. Masai Ujiri, the newly appointed team president, has emphasized a focus on stability and long-term growth. Ujiri, who previously served as the Raptors’ executive, plans to build around Flagg and create a competitive roster.#luka_doncic #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #jason_kidd #masai_ujiri
Cooper Flagg Records Historic Rookie Stats Following Mavericks Debut Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg made history during his rookie season in the NBA, becoming the first player since Michael Jordan in 1984 to lead his franchise in points, rebounds, assists, and steals in a single season. The 19-year-old, selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, finished his first campaign with averages of 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across 70 starts. His standout performance included a 51-point game against the Orlando Magic, setting a record as the youngest player in league history to reach that milestone. Flagg’s success came after a major trade that sent former star Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Mavericks’ new cornerstone, as praised by head coach Jason Kidd, became the focal point of the franchise’s rebuild. Kidd highlighted Flagg’s role as the team’s central figure, emphasizing his impact on the organization’s future. The rookie’s achievements were celebrated alongside his personal life. Arianna Roberson, a redshirt freshman for the Duke Blue Devils, was frequently linked to Flagg during his rookie season. The pair vacationed together at Noah’s Ark Beach Club in Turks and Caicos in early May 2026, sharing social media updates that drew public interest. Roberson, sister of former NBA player Andre Roberson, had previously appeared with Flagg’s family at his Rookie of the Year press conference on April 27. She is expected to return to Duke for the upcoming collegiate season while Flagg prepares for his second NBA campaign. Flagg’s season was marked by both individual brilliance and team growth. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game—scoring, rebounding, and playmaking—positioned him as a key player for the Mavericks.#duke_blue_devils #luka_doncic #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #jason_kidd
NBA Unveils Anti-Tanking Plan with Revised Draft Lottery Structure, Mark Cuban Predicts Surge in Trades The NBA has finalized its new anti-tanking plan, which aims to reshape the league’s draft lottery system and incentivize competitive play. The proposal, revealed on Wednesday, introduces a 3-2-1 structure for draft lottery odds, with 16 teams eligible for the first overall pick. The system replaces the previous model, where the bottom three teams had an equal 14% chance at the top selection. Under the new framework, the three worst teams in the standings will receive only two ping-pong balls in the lottery basket, granting them a 5.4% chance at the first pick. All other teams not qualifying for the play-in tournament will have three balls, offering an 8.1% chance. The owners’ vote to approve the plan is scheduled for May 28. The revised system simplifies and flattens the odds compared to the prior structure, which critics argued disproportionately rewarded tanking teams. The NBA’s decision to lower the chances for the league’s worst performers has been praised as a strategic move to encourage competitiveness even after playoff elimination. Mark Cuban, a co-owner of the Dallas Mavericks and a vocal NBA analyst, has already weighed in on the potential implications of the new system. In a detailed tweet, Cuban predicted that the number of trades involving first-round picks will “explode” in the coming years. Cuban argued that the increased value of first-round selections will drive teams to engage in more aggressive trade negotiations. He outlined a hypothetical scenario in which a team with a strong young core but insufficient playoff chances might trade its future first-round picks and key players for a shot at securing a top draft prospect, such as Victor Wembanyama.#nba #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #mark_cuban #draft_lottery
LeBron James Gave Bronny Some Hard Coaching in Funny Moment from Lakers-Mavs: “Bounce Pass!” The Los Angeles Lakers’ father-son duo of LeBron James and Bronny James made headlines during an April 5 matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, as LeBron took the opportunity to coach his son on the court. While the Lakers had already secured their division title and a postseason berth, the Mavericks’ elimination from the playoffs meant their young players, including rookie Cooper Flagg, received more playing time. Bronny, now a rising NBA star, found himself alongside his father as the Lakers attempted to set up a play late in the third quarter. The moment unfolded when Bronny attempted a high-arcing pass to LeBron, only for Mavericks forward Marvin Bagley III to tip the ball out of bounds. The pass, which was too high for a low-angle bounce, allowed Bagley, a 6’10” forward, to easily intercept it. LeBron immediately recognized the mistake, turning to his son with a mix of frustration and fatherly guidance. He raised his arms downward in a sharp motion and shouted “Bounce pass!” to emphasize the need for a lower, more precise delivery. The exchange was captured by commentators Mike Tirico and Jamal Crawford, who highlighted the blend of LeBron’s veteran expertise and his role as a parent. Tirico remarked, “I love that look, because that look was not just LeBron the veteran, it was also LeBron the Dad.” The moment became a lighthearted yet meaningful display of LeBron’s mentorship, showcasing how he balances his responsibilities as a star player with his role as a father. The scene was broadcast live, allowing fans to witness the unique dynamic between the two Jameses. Despite LeBron’s coaching moment, the Mavericks pulled off a 134-128 victory, fueled by Flagg’s 45-point performance.#lebron_james #bronny_james #mavericks #cooper_flagg #marvin_bagley_iii
Dirk Nowitzki Breaks Down NBA's 'Neck and Neck' Rookie of the Year Race The Rookie of the Year race in the NBA has reached a critical juncture, with Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg and Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel locked in a fierce battle for the honor. Both players have delivered standout performances this season, but time is running out for each to solidify their case. Former Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki, now a studio analyst for Amazon Prime, has weighed in on the competition, acknowledging the difficulty of choosing between the two. Flagg, a 20-year-old rookie, has emerged as a standout for the Mavericks, averaging 20.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. His historic 49-point performance on January 29 against the Hornets—where he broke the record for the highest scoring game by a teenager in NBA history—highlighted his two-way versatility. Despite missing eight games in February due to a midfoot sprain, Flagg has remained a key contributor, showcasing his ability to impact both ends of the floor with his athleticism, playmaking, and defensive presence. Knueppel, meanwhile, has made a name for himself as one of the league’s premier shooters. The 21-year-old guard averages 18.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, with a career-high 34-point performance against Flagg on the same night as the Mavericks forward’s 49-point game. Knueppel’s efficiency from beyond the arc—shooting 8 of 10 from three-point range in that matchup—has solidified his reputation as a clutch shooter. With 75 games played compared to Flagg’s 64, Knueppel has also benefited from more consistent minutes, allowing him to build a stronger case for the award.#charlotte_hornets #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #kon_knueppel #dirk_nowitzki
Former Duke Teammates Battle for NBA Rookie of the Year in Tight Race Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, once inseparable teammates on the Duke Blue Devils, are now locked in a fierce competition for the 2026 NBA Rookie of the Year award. The race, which has remained unpredictable throughout the season, is now entering its final stretch, with neither player holding a definitive edge. Their contrasting styles and paths have created a compelling narrative, as their shared history as teammates adds an extra layer of intrigue to the award race. Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been a standout performer for the Dallas Mavericks. His season has been defined by explosive individual moments, including a historic 51-point game against the Utah Jazz, where he poured in 24 points in the fourth quarter to take control of the game. This performance, which made him the youngest player in NBA history to score 50 points, has cemented his reputation as a rare talent capable of delivering game-changing performances. Flagg’s resume includes multiple 40-point games, a 49-point outing earlier this season, and a consistent role as the Mavericks’ primary offensive weapon. However, his impact has been tempered by the team’s inconsistent results, with Dallas failing to convert his stellar performances into wins. Knueppel, meanwhile, has built his case on consistency and efficiency. Playing for the Charlotte Hornets, he has averaged nearly 19 points per game while shooting over 43% from three-point range. His season has been marked by a steady accumulation of milestones, including becoming the fastest player in NBA history to reach multiple three-point milestones and setting a rookie record for most three-pointers in a season.#duke_blue_devils #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #kon_knueppel #nba_rookie_of_the_year
Why Moses Moody Injury ‘Sucks’ for Warriors’ Draymond Green The Golden State Warriors’ roster faced a major setback when fifth-year guard Moses Moody suffered a devastating knee injury during a 137-131 overtime victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday. The injury, a torn left patellar tendon, occurred with less than 90 seconds remaining in the extra period. Moody, who had returned from a 10-game absence due to a previous injury, collided with Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg, stole the ball, and attempted a fastbreak dunk. His leg collapsed mid-motion, causing him to clutch his left knee in severe pain before being stretchered off the court. The Warriors’ organization was deeply affected by the injury, with star player Draymond Green expressing his frustration and disappointment. Green, who has mentored Moody since the young guard entered the NBA in 2021, described the incident as a crushing blow. On the latest episode of his podcast, “The Draymond Green Show,” Green emphasized the emotional weight of the injury. “It just sucks, man,” he said. “Moses, being a young guy, I’ve tried to take under my wing during his time in the league. I always compare him to Kevon Looney. He’s just one of those guys that, when you talk about the consummate pro, the ultimate pro, Moses does everything right as a professional.” Green highlighted Moody’s dedication, noting that the guard “puts in all the work” and “doesn’t complain about anything.” He praised Moody’s reliability, calling him “a coach’s dream, a teammate’s dream, an organization’s dream.” The injury, which occurred after Moody’s recent return from a lengthy absence, felt especially cruel to Green. “To see him get hurt after coming back from a 10-game absence, it’s just unfortunate,” he said.#golden_state_warriors #steve_kerr #draymond_green #moses_moody #cooper_flagg
Dallas Mavericks Seek Third Straight Win Over Denver Nuggets The Dallas Mavericks return to Denver for the fourth and final matchup of the season against the Denver Nuggets, aiming to extend their 2-1 series advantage. The team faces the Nuggets without a day of rest after suffering two heartbreakingly close overtime losses in recent games. Analysts suggest the Mavericks have the momentum to make a statement in the high-altitude city, where they’ve historically performed well. The game, scheduled for 9:10 p.m. CT at Ball Arena in Denver, will be broadcast locally on KFAA Channel 29 or streamed via Mavs TV for fans in the Mavericks’ media market. Those outside the viewing area can access the game through NBA League Pass. Odds from Fanduel Sportsbook as of 1:30 p.m. CST show the Mavericks as +12 favorites against the Nuggets, with the over/under set at 244.5 points. The Mavericks’ moneyline is listed at +490, while specific player props highlight key matchups. Tim Hardaway Jr. is favored to exceed 11.5 points at -104 odds, a line he has consistently met in previous encounters with Denver. Hardaway’s ability to perform without rest, averaging over 13 points per game in such scenarios, adds to the confidence in his performance. Cooper Flagg, meanwhile, is projected to surpass 21.5 points at -120 odds. Flagg’s previous games against the Nuggets, particularly those where he played 30-plus minutes, saw him exceed this line. His fresh legs and the Nuggets’ depleted defense following a late-night game last night further support this projection. The Mavericks’ +12 line against the Nuggets reflects their historical dominance in the series, as they have not lost by 13 or more points to Denver since January of last year.#denver_nuggets #dallas_mavericks #ball_arena #cooper_flagg #tim_hardaway_jr
Golden State Warriors Edge Dallas Mavericks in Overtime Thriller The Golden State Warriors secured a hard-fought 137-131 overtime victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night, extending the Mavericks’ home losing streak to 12 games—the longest in their 32-year history. The game, played at the American Airlines Center, saw a dramatic turn as Mavericks forward Moses Moody suffered a potential season-ending left knee injury late in the extra period. Moody, who had returned from a 10-game absence due to a sprained right wrist, scored 23 points before the incident. Moody’s injury occurred after he stole the ball from Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg near midcourt and attempted a shot. His left leg buckled as he landed, causing him to crumple to the floor. The clock stopped with 58 seconds remaining in overtime, and after the play resumed, Warriors coach Steve Kerr reacted with visible concern, placing his hands to his face. Medical staff and players rushed to Moody’s side, and he was stretchered off the court for further evaluation. Kerr confirmed Moody was undergoing X-rays at the arena but offered no details on the injury’s severity. The Warriors, who are locked in a battle for a Western Conference play-in spot, ended a three-game losing streak with their second win in the past 10 games. The Mavericks, meanwhile, dropped to 4-23 since a four-game win streak, marking their longest losing skid in over two decades. The game’s intensity was underscored by a back-and-forth contest, with the Mavericks clawing back from a 15-point deficit in the first half and the Warriors countering with an 11-0 run in the fourth quarter. Moody’s performance was a bright spot for the Mavericks, who relied on his 23 points and key defensive plays.#dallas_mavericks #golden_state_warriors #american_airlines_center #moses_moody #cooper_flagg
Dallas Mavericks Highlight Gafford's Resilience Amid Injury Challenges The Dallas Mavericks have acknowledged the ongoing impact of injuries on center Daniel Gafford’s season, while emphasizing his critical role in the team’s long-term plans. Despite being sidelined for much of the year due to ankle issues, Gafford has remained a consistent presence in the lineup, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts. His ability to secure second-chance points and create scoring opportunities has drawn praise from both coaches and teammates, positioning him as a key building block for the franchise’s future. Gafford’s performance has been particularly notable in recent games, where he has averaged 14.2 points per contest on an impressive 71.4% shooting efficiency, alongside 3.6 offensive rebounds. Head coach Jason Kidd has highlighted Gafford’s adaptability and work ethic, noting his ability to find open shots and finish plays effectively. “He’s been really good at that for us,” Kidd said. “Being able to find him in the pick and roll and finishing is a big part of our offense.” Gafford echoed these sentiments, attributing his success to a focus on aggressive play and maximizing opportunities created by the team’s frequent missed shots. While Gafford has shown flashes of his usual form, he has not fully recovered from his lingering ankle injuries. The player admitted that he still feels the effects of the injury during games, though he remains determined to stay active. “I still feel the ankle every now and then,” he said. “But I’m just trying to play as much as I can. Injuries might happen, but I can’t let them hold me back.” His resilience has been a key factor in maintaining his impact despite the setbacks.#dallas_mavericks #daniel_gafford #cooper_flagg #jason_kidd #kyrie_irving
Cooper Flagg, Draymond Green, and Three Other Underdog Props for Mavericks vs. Warriors The NBA matchup between the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks on Monday has been highlighted as a key game on Peacock. Here are five top player props from Underdog Fantasy for the contest. Cooper Flagg is a strong candidate for the over 12.5 rebounds+assists prop. The Mavericks forward has consistently exceeded this threshold in his last five games, achieving 13 or more combined rebounds and assists four times. His performance against the Warriors in their previous meeting was particularly notable, as he logged 11 rebounds and two assists, covering the over on his 12.5 prop line. With his recent success on this prop and the Warriors’ defensive struggles, Flagg is expected to continue his strong play. De’Anthony Melton is another key player to watch for the Warriors. With Stephen Curry sidelined, Melton is likely to carry a larger offensive load against the Mavericks. Over his last three games, he has scored 20 or more points twice, and in his two most recent matchups against Dallas, he has tallied 16 or more points in each. In the latest game against the Mavericks, he scored 22 points. The Mavericks have also struggled defensively, allowing the most points per game in the NBA over their last three contests, making Melton a dangerous threat. Marvin Bagley’s rebounding under 7.5 prop is a solid bet for the Mavericks. Despite his contributions as a paint scorer, Bagley has consistently underperformed on the rebounding line. In his last five games, he has recorded fewer than eight rebounds four times, including a game against the Clippers where he totaled seven boards in 25 minutes. The Warriors, while not the best rebounding team, rank 16th in the league in allowing rebounds per game.#dallas_mavericks #de_anthony_melton #golden_state_warriors #draymond_green #cooper_flagg
Cooper Flagg is set to play for the Dallas Mavericks in their matchup against the Golden State Warriors on March 23, 2026. The game, scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET at the American Airlines Center, will see both teams navigating challenges due to multiple injuries. The Mavericks, with a record of 23-48, are striving for consistency, while the Warriors, at 33-38, aim to secure their place in the Play-In race. Key players are sidelined, shifting the focus to the availability of key contributors like Flagg. Flagg, a central figure for Dallas, is not listed on the injury report and is expected to start. His recent performance has been a bright spot for the team. In a March 21 overtime loss to the Clippers, he recorded 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. He also contributed 25 points against the Cavaliers on March 13, maintaining an average of 20.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate plays has positioned him as a leading candidate for Rookie of the Year. The Mavericks’ injury report highlights several absences. Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II are out for the season following knee and foot surgeries, respectively. Caleb Martin is questionable due to a foot/heel injury, while Brandon Williams is day-to-day after a concussion protocol. With Irving and Lively sidelined, Flagg’s presence is crucial. He will join Naji Marshall, who has averaged 15.1 points in his last 20 games, and P.J. Hairston in the starting lineup. The Warriors, meanwhile, face their own challenges. Their roster lacks depth, and the Mavericks’ reliance on Flagg and their supporting cast will be tested. The matchup promises to be a strategic battle, with both teams needing to maximize their available talent.#dallas_mavericks #golden_state_warriors #american_airlines_center #cooper_flagg #naji_marshall
Mavericks vs. Clippers Preview and Injury Update: These games used to mean something The Dallas Mavericks (23-47) host the Los Angeles Clippers (34-36) in a matchup Saturday night at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks enter the game after a two-day break following a home loss to the Atlanta Hawks, while the Clippers have struggled in their recent stretch, dropping four consecutive games including a defeat to the New Orleans Pelicans. The outcome of this contest could be pivotal for both teams as they aim to regain momentum. The Mavericks’ injury report is relatively clean, though some key players remain uncertain. Brandon Williams is sidelined with a concussion, and Caleb Martin is questionable due to a heel contusion. The two-way contract players are also listed as questionable, with their availability likely to be determined closer to game time. Despite these concerns, the team’s roster appears largely intact, which raises questions about their strategic approach given their current standings. For the Clippers, the primary concern centers around their star player, Kawhi Leonard. He is listed as questionable with an ankle sprain, and his participation will be critical to the team’s chances. Benedict Mathurin is out with a toe injury, leaving the Clippers reliant on their depth. The analysis suggests that if Leonard is able to play, the Clippers are strong favorites to win. However, if he sits out, the Mavericks may seize the opportunity to secure a victory. Leonard’s recent performance has been a key factor in the Clippers’ success, with his ability to dominate in high-pressure moments making him a game-changer. Dallas fans are well aware of his potential to shift momentum in favor of their team when he’s at his best.#los_angeles_clippers #dallas_mavericks #kawhi_leonard #american_airlines_center #cooper_flagg
Clippers vs Mavericks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game The Los Angeles Clippers’ four-game losing streak has dampened their postseason hopes, making tonight’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks a critical test. Despite the Clippers’ struggles, the game presents a potential turning point for L.A., though the Mavericks’ young star, Cooper Flagg, is expected to be a key factor in the outcome. Flagg, who has fallen behind Kon Knueppel in the Rookie of the Year race, is poised to finish strong for Dallas. With the ability to control the offense and his physical presence on the boards, Flagg has consistently exceeded the Over 33.5 points + rebounds + assists line in three of his last four games. His scoring output is the primary driver for this Over bet, as he has taken 17+ shots in 12 of his past 17 contests and is averaging 22.5 points per game in his last four outings. Even if Kawhi Leonard returns to the Clippers, Flagg’s all-around performance could still make him a standout player in this matchup. For the same-game parlay, the Mavericks’ role players are highlighted as potential contributors. Kris Dunn, who has made at least one 3-pointer in four consecutive games, and John Collins, who has exceeded the rebounding Over in four of his past five contests, are key targets. The parlay focuses on Dunn’s shooting and Collins’ rebounding, with P.J. Washington and Max Christie also featured as reliable options. Washington, averaging 18.3 points and 9.3 rebounds in his last four starts, is expected to hit the Over 13.5 points and 6.5 rebounds lines, while Christie has consistently exceeded the Over 11.5 points prop in four of his last five games. The betting odds for the game show the Clippers as slight favorites at -7 (-110) against the Mavericks’ +7 (-110).#los_angeles_clippers #dallas_mavericks #john_collins #cooper_flagg #kris_dunn
LA Clippers vs. Dallas Mavericks Game Preview and Betting Analysis The Los Angeles Clippers (34-36) and Dallas Mavericks (23-47) are set to face off Saturday at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, with the game scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET. The matchup will focus on the Clippers’ recent struggles and the Mavericks’ defensive challenges as they attempt to secure a win. The season series between the two teams is tied 1-1, with the most recent meeting on November 29 ending in a Mavericks victory. In that game, Dallas covered as a 9-point road underdog, with the Over (223.5) hitting. The Mavericks’ star player, Cooper Flagg, led the way with 35 points and 8 rebounds, while Klay Thompson added 23 points off the bench. The Mavericks also capitalized on 18 turnovers, converting them into 20 points. However, the Mavericks have faced setbacks in their recent games. They suffered a 135-120 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, failing to cover as an 8.5-point home underdog. The team turned the ball over 19 times and allowed the Hawks to shoot 54% from the field. Dallas has also struggled defensively, surrendering at least 132 points per game in their last two losses. The Clippers, meanwhile, have been inconsistent in their recent performances. They lost four consecutive games, failing to reach 110 points in three of those contests. Their shooting from the foul line has also been a concern, as they shot 19-of-32 (59%) in one game, which is below their season average. The team’s recent losses have included a 4.5-point underdog game and a 2-point favorite game, with the Under hitting in both instances. Betting odds for the game are set by BetMGM Sportsbook, with the Clippers listed as -275 favorites.#los_angeles_clippers #dallas_mavericks #american_airlines_center #klay_thompson #cooper_flagg
