#dallas_mavericks

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

Mike Schmitz Named Mavs GM, Masai Ujiri Tabs Former ESPN Analyst to Replace Nico Harrison Six months after firing general manager Nico Harrison, the Dallas Mavericks have finalized their search for a new general manager. On Friday, team president Masai Ujiri announced the appointment of Mike Schmitz, a former Portland Trail Blazers assistant general manager and ESPN analyst, as the franchise’s new GM. Schmitz, who previously worked as an NBA draft analyst, will now oversee the team’s basketball operations following a tumultuous period marked by the controversial trade of star guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. Ujiri praised Schmitz’s qualifications, calling him “one of the most respected evaluators and basketball minds in the NBA.” The team president highlighted Schmitz’s attributes as a “relentless work ethic,” “collaborative culture builder,” and his ability to “align every part of a basketball organization.” Ujiri emphasized the importance of Schmitz’s role in the Mavericks’ long-term vision, stating that the new GM would be “a major part of building something special in Dallas.” Schmitz’s hiring comes after the Mavericks named Ujiri team president and alternate governor on Monday. In a statement, Schmitz expressed his excitement about joining the franchise, calling it an “incredible opportunity.” He acknowledged the challenges ahead, including rebuilding trust with fans and improving the team’s performance. The Mavericks’ 26-56 record this season has made his task more difficult, particularly after the franchise’s disastrous decision to trade Doncic last season. The Doncic trade, orchestrated by Harrison, remains a defining moment in the team’s recent history. The move, which saw the Mavericks acquire star big man Anthony Davis in exchange for Doncic, backfired spectacularly.#luka_doncic #dallas_mavericks #anthony_davis #mike_schmitz #masai_ujiri

Mavericks Appoint Mike Schmitz as General Manager Under Masai Ujiri The Dallas Mavericks have officially announced the hiring of Mike Schmitz as their new general manager, placing him under the leadership of team president Masai Ujiri. This move marks one of Ujiri’s first major decisions since joining the franchise as team president and alternate governor last week. Schmitz, a former assistant general manager for the Portland Trail Blazers, will oversee the Mavericks’ day-to-day basketball operations, including scouting, player personnel, strategic planning, and cross-departmental collaboration. Schmitz’s career prior to his Mavericks role includes a stint as a draft analyst for ESPN from 2017 to 2022, during which he provided insights on player evaluations and draft prospects. He joined the Blazers’ front office in May 2022, bringing his expertise in basketball analytics and personnel decisions to the organization. Ujiri praised Schmitz’s qualifications, calling him “one of the most respected evaluators and basketball minds in the NBA.” The team president highlighted Schmitz’s attributes, including his intelligence, discipline, humility, and work ethic, as well as his ability to foster a collaborative culture within the organization. The Mavericks’ leadership transition follows the firing of previous general manager Nico Harrison in November 2025. Harrison’s departure came after the team struggled to a 3-8 start to the season, a performance that intensified fan frustration. The turmoil was exacerbated by the controversial trade of perennial All-NBA selection Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025. This trade, which occurred just months after the Mavericks’ historic 2024 NBA Finals appearance, sparked widespread backlash from fans and analysts alike.#luka_doncic #dallas_mavericks #mike_schmitz #masai_ujiri #nba_finals

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

Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson’s Relationship Timeline Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson, the rapper and NBA player, announced the end of their relationship in early April 2026, marking the conclusion of a romance that began in the summer of 2025. Their connection was first hinted at when Megan shared a series of poolside photos on Instagram, with Thompson appearing in the background of one image. Days later, Thompson further fueled speculation by posting a kissing photo with someone resembling Megan, sparking widespread rumors about their relationship. The couple made their public debut at the Pete & Thomas Foundation gala in New York City in August 2025, a fundraiser for an organization Megan founded in honor of her parents. The event marked their first major appearance together, as they coordinated in matching black-tie outfits. Megan, who had previously described the foundation as a way to provide resources for women, children, seniors, and underserved communities, seemed to embrace the spotlight alongside Thompson. Their relationship remained relatively low-key in the months that followed, with the pair occasionally referencing their bond in interviews and social media posts. Megan was frequently seen courtside at Thompson’s games, supporting him as a Dallas Mavericks player. In February 2026, she hinted at future plans, stating she was hoping for an engagement. Around the same time, she threw a lavish birthday party for Thompson, which included a surprise performance by his favorite musical group, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. Thompson reciprocated by celebrating Megan’s 31st birthday with a beach getaway and a gift of a blue Bentley.#dallas_mavericks #klay_thompson #megan_thee_stallion #pete_and_thomas_foundation #bone_thugs_n_harmony

Jordan Goodwin And Suns Take On Trail Blazers In Play-In Game The Phoenix Suns, led by guard Jordan Goodwin, will face the Portland Trail Blazers in an NBA Play-In Tournament matchup on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. The game will serve as a critical opportunity for both teams to secure a spot in the postseason, with the winner earning a berth in the Western Conference playoffs. Goodwin, a key contributor for the Suns, is expected to play a pivotal role in the contest, with his performance in the previous game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 8 providing a glimpse of his potential impact. In the Suns’ 112-107 victory over the Mavericks on April 8, Goodwin recorded nine points, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively in high-stakes situations. Over the course of the regular season, Goodwin averaged 8.7 points per game, alongside 4.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.2 blocks. His all-around contributions highlight his value to the Suns’ roster, particularly as the team looks to maximize its chances in the Play-In Tournament. The Trail Blazers, meanwhile, present a formidable challenge, ranking 16th in the NBA in points allowed, conceding an average of 115.8 points per game. Their defensive efficiency will be a key factor in the matchup, as the Suns will need to counteract Portland’s ability to limit opponents’ scoring. The Trail Blazers’ defensive ranking underscores the importance of the Suns’ offensive execution, particularly in key moments of the game. The game’s betting landscape is also notable, with odds for various outcomes subject to change as the event approaches. Fans and bettors are advised to check the latest markets on platforms like FanDuel Sportsbook for updated information.#phoenix_suns #dallas_mavericks #portland_trail_blazers #jordan_goodwin #nba_play_in_tournament

Suns' Jalen Green, Jordan Goodwin Exit with Injuries Jalen Green and Jordan Goodwin, two key players for the Phoenix Suns, exited their game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 9, 2026, due to injuries sustained during the contest. Green, who joined the Suns in the Kevin Durant trade, suffered a right knee injury and is questionable to return, while Goodwin left the game with a left ankle injury and is expected to miss time. The injuries occurred at different points in the first half, with Green limping off the court at the 8:10 mark of the first quarter and Goodwin heading to the locker room with 4:53 remaining in the first half. Green’s injury history has been a recurring issue since joining the Suns. After being acquired in the Durant trade, he was limited to 32 games in his first season with the team due to right hamstring and hip injuries. Despite starting all 82 games for the Houston Rockets in the previous two seasons, Green faced setbacks during his transition to Phoenix. He reaggravated a hamstring injury during preseason training camp, missed significant time, and then reaggravated the same issue in his second game with the Suns. After returning on February 19 against the San Antonio Spurs, Green played in all 24 games since then, but his recent injury raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming play-in tournament. In Wednesday’s game, Green recorded a rebound in four minutes of action before exiting, missing two shots. Goodwin, who has been a consistent performer for the Suns, suffered a left ankle injury that forced him to the locker room. The 23-year-old has played in 70 of the Suns’ 80 games this season, missing time due to a calf injury.#phoenix_suns #jalen_green #dallas_mavericks #jordan_goodwin #play_in_tournament

Mavs vs. Suns Recap: John Poulakidas Scores 23 In Loss To Phoenix The Dallas Mavericks fell to the Phoenix Suns 112-107 in a thrilling matchup at Mortgage Matchup Center on Wednesday night, despite a valiant comeback effort led by rookie John Poulakidas. Poulakidas, who entered the game in his 11th NBA contest, delivered a career-high 23 points, including five three-pointers, to spark a late rally that briefly put Dallas within one point of the Suns. The Mavericks, however, could not sustain their momentum and fell to 25-55 on the season, while Phoenix secured the Western Conference’s seventh seed with two games remaining. The game began with the Suns dominating early, building an 18-point lead by the third quarter. Phoenix’s Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks carried the offense, combining for 65 points and 14 assists, while Khaman Maluach made his NBA debut with 14 rebounds and three blocks. The Suns’ 16-0 run in the third quarter stretched their lead to 71-53, leaving the Mavericks in a precarious position. However, Dallas’ undermanned roster, missing key players such as Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, and Naji Marshall, refused to quit. Poulakidas emerged as the Mavericks’ unlikely hero, showcasing his poise and scoring ability in a pivotal moment. In the first quarter, he blocked a putback attempt by Booker and followed it with a pull-up jumper, setting the tone for his performance. His ability to stay aggressive despite missed shots became a defining trait. “I went into this game with the right mindset, just trying to refocus and stay aggressive,” Poulakidas said. “The last few games, I’ve had good looks that didn’t drop, but I know they will. So it’s about staying confident, even when I’m missing shots that I know I make every day.” The rookie’s impact was felt throughout the game.#phoenix_suns #devin_booker #dallas_mavericks #mortgage_matchup_center #john_poulakidas

Mavericks Rookie's Breakout Exposes Deepening Shooting Crisis They Can't Ignore The Dallas Mavericks' rookie sharpshooter, John Poulakidas, delivered a 23-point performance against the Phoenix Suns, highlighting the team's urgent need to address its shooting woes. His 3-point shooting alone nearly secured a victory, as the Mavericks lost by five points despite seemingly tanking the game in the final quarter. The aftermath of Poulakidas' game-altering display underscores a critical flaw in the team's identity, one that could derail their chances of competing in the NBA playoffs. When the Mavericks traded Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis, they pledged to prioritize size, rebounding, and defense as the foundation of their roster. The plan was to dominate the paint while becoming one of the league's premier defensive teams. However, this strategy came at a steep cost: the team sacrificed significant offensive firepower, particularly in the form of perimeter shooting. Three of Dallas' top players—Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford—were positioned as centers, none of whom could consistently knock down three-pointers. This decision has proven to be one of the worst missteps of the season, leaving the Mavericks in a precarious position. Currently, the Mavericks rank second-worst in the NBA in 3-pointers made per game, averaging just 10.8 field goals from beyond the arc. They also sit third-worst in 3-point percentage, at 34.1%. These numbers are a stark contrast to the team's aspirations of contending for a championship. Poulakidas' performance against the Suns served as a wake-up call, demonstrating how a single shooter can transform the trajectory of a game.#luka_doncic #dallas_mavericks #anthony_davis #nico_harrison #john_poulakidas

Lakers’ Luke Kennard thriving in new role with increased on-ball usage The Los Angeles Lakers’ Luke Kennard has emerged as a pivotal player in the team’s late-season push, transitioning from a primary 3-point shooter to a key playmaker with increased on-ball responsibilities. This shift has been driven by the absence of key ball-handlers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves due to injuries, forcing head coach JJ Redick to reevaluate Kennard’s role. Redick acknowledged the long-standing perception of Kennard as a shooter, a label that has followed him since his early basketball days. However, the coach emphasized that Kennard’s value extends far beyond his shooting ability, particularly in the team’s current circumstances. Redick highlighted the challenges Kennard has faced throughout his career, noting that the stigma surrounding his role as a white player with a high shooting percentage has often overshadowed his versatility. “It’s easy because he’s a white guy that shoots well, to just think he’s just a shooter,” Redick said after a recent win over the Golden State Warriors. “That’s just the reality of the situation.” Despite this, Kennard has proven his adaptability, stepping into a more central role as the Lakers’ fill-in point guard. The turning point came during a critical period for the Lakers, following the injuries to Doncic and Reaves. Redick and Kennard engaged in a conversation in Dallas, where the injuries occurred, to discuss the need for Kennard to take on greater responsibilities. Kennard expressed confidence in his ability to handle the increased workload, stating, “He came right to me and was like, ‘Hey, you’re going to have the ball in your hands a lot, and we need you to do that.#lakers #jj_redick #dallas_mavericks #golden_state_warriors #luke_kennard

Philadelphia 76ers' Quentin Grimes Confident in Playoff Potential The Philadelphia 76ers are positioned as a formidable playoff contender, with Quentin Grimes expressing unwavering confidence in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level. Grimes, who joined the franchise in 2025 after being acquired from the Dallas Mavericks, emphasized the depth and talent of the roster as a key factor in their playoff aspirations. Speaking on April 6, 2026, Grimes highlighted the team’s strong starting five and the contributions of role players like Kelly Oubre Jr. and Dominick Barlow, who have been instrumental in maintaining the Sixers’ competitiveness down the stretch of the season. The 76ers currently find themselves in a tight race for the top six in the Eastern Conference, a position that would secure them a direct playoff berth and eliminate the need for a play-in tournament. Grimes acknowledged the importance of avoiding the play-in format, stating, “I feel like we’re scary. We’re pretty deep at every position. We have a lot of talented, talented guys. So, I feel like whoever comes in the game, there’s really no drop off where there’s a sub for anybody in the starting unit or whoever comes in. I feel like in the playoffs, I really wouldn’t wanna see us. We’ll try to get that 6 seed and not be in the play-in.” Grimes’ confidence is rooted in the team’s collective growth and the chemistry that has developed among its core players. Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, VJ Edgecombe, and Paul George have all been healthy for much of the 2025-26 season, allowing them to build momentum and refine their play. The Sixers’ starting lineup, bolstered by Embiid’s dominance and Maxey’s scoring ability, has been a cornerstone of their success.#dallas_mavericks #philadelphia_76ers #quentin_grimes #kelly_obre_jr #dominick_barlow

Rui Hachimura Set to Start Against Dallas as Lakers Address Injuries Rui Hachimura will make his first start of the season in Sunday’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, according to a report from The Athletic’s Law Murray. The decision comes as the Los Angeles Lakers face a challenging lineup without key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both sidelined due to injuries. Doncic, the Mavericks’ star forward, is dealing with a hamstring injury, while Reaves, a crucial contributor for the Lakers, is out with an oblique issue. Hachimura’s inclusion in the starting five marks a strategic adjustment for the Lakers, who aim to maximize their offensive potential in the absence of their injured stars. The 28-year-old forward, who has been a reliable rotation player throughout the season, has demonstrated his value with consistent performances. This season, Hachimura has started 36 games, averaging 12.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.2 blocks, and 0.6 steals per contest. His shooting efficiency has been a standout aspect of his game, with a 45.3% clip from beyond the arc across 31.9 minutes per game. These numbers highlight his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, making him a key asset for the Lakers in their pursuit of a strong finish to the regular season. The matchup against Dallas is particularly significant for the Lakers, as the Mavericks are a formidable opponent in the Western Conference. With Doncic’s absence, the Mavericks may rely more heavily on their supporting cast, but their overall depth and experience could still pose a challenge. For the Lakers, Hachimura’s start represents an opportunity to test his ability to step into a larger role and provide a spark in critical moments.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #dallas_mavericks #austin_reaves #rui_hachimura

Mavericks Dispute Lakers' Claim That Austin Reaves' MRI Was Botched The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers are locked in a dispute over the accuracy of an MRI scan conducted on Austin Reaves, a key player for the Lakers, following a contentious game between the teams. The disagreement centers on whether the initial MRI was performed on the correct side of Reaves’ body, with the Lakers asserting the scan was done on the wrong area, while the Mavericks maintain their medical team followed standard protocols. The incident unfolded after the Lakers suffered a 134-128 loss to the Mavericks on Friday, during which Reaves sustained an injury to his oblique. The Lakers’ medical staff later confirmed the diagnosis, but the team’s coach, JJ Redick, raised concerns about the MRI process. Redick stated that the Lakers had explicitly communicated the specific area to be scanned, yet the initial scan was conducted on the wrong side of Reaves’ body. This led to the necessity of a second MRI, which was completed after the Mavericks’ statement was released. The Mavericks issued a formal response, denying the Lakers’ claim of a botched scan. In a statement provided to ESPN and initially shared with DLLS Sports, the Mavericks’ medical team emphasized that they adhered to standard imaging protocols based on the information provided at the time. They asserted there was no error in the scan performed, suggesting the Lakers’ interpretation of the procedure was incorrect. The Mavericks’ stance highlights a potential conflict over medical procedures and communication between the two franchises. The Lakers’ situation has been further complicated by the injury to Luka Doncic, their star player, who was diagnosed with a Grade 2 hamstring strain on the same day as Reaves’ MRI.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #jj_redick #dallas_mavericks #austin_reaves

Mavericks Dispute Redick's Claim They Erred With Reaves' MRI The Dallas Mavericks have denied Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick’s assertion that their medical team conducted an MRI on Austin Reaves in an incorrect manner, sparking a dispute over the procedure’s accuracy. Redick, speaking after the Lakers’ practice session at Southern Methodist University on Saturday, claimed the Mavericks’ staff scanned the wrong area of Reaves’ body, leading to a second MRI to diagnose a Grade 2 left oblique strain. The Mavericks responded in a statement released to DLLS Sports and later shared with ESPN, insisting their medical team adhered to standard imaging protocols and made no errors during the initial scan. In a statement provided to ESPN, the Mavericks emphasized that their medical team followed established procedures based on the information available at the time. “There was no error in the scan performed,” the team said, clarifying their stance on the matter. Redick, however, accused the Mavericks of misexecuting the scan, stating that the Lakers had explicitly communicated the area to be imaged but that the Mavericks’ team failed to comply. “I don’t know where the chain of command lies with Dallas imaging, but they scanned the wrong area,” Redick said, adding that the mistake was not on the Lakers’ side. The Lakers’ spokesperson declined to comment further on the incident when asked by ESPN on Tuesday. However, Redick’s tone shifted when addressing the situation ahead of the Lakers’ game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday. “In the end, we got the image we needed,” he said, expressing appreciation for the Mavericks’ cooperation. He also noted that the Lakers had similarly assisted the Mavericks in previous instances, highlighting a mutual effort to support each other’s teams during the season.#shams_charania #los_angeles_lakers #jj_redick #dallas_mavericks #austin_reaves

LeBron James Visibly Upset with Son Bronny After He Throws Bad Pass LeBron James was visibly frustrated with his son, Bronny James, during the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, April 5. The NBA legend motioned a telling gesture to the second-year player after the pass Bronny threw to him was blocked by the other team. The move came shortly after the pair made history with the first father-son assist in an NBA game. The incident occurred during the Lakers’ 134-128 loss to the Mavericks. At the time, the Lakers were down by eight points with five minutes remaining in the third quarter. In a now-viral clip, LeBron appears upset at Bronny on the court after his attempted pass to his dad was blocked by Marvin Bagley III of the Mavericks. Game commentators later called out the father-son interaction during the broadcast. “I love that look. That was not just LeBron the veteran, that was also LeBron the dad!” the commentators said, as seen in the clip shared on Instagram. “Watch his look at his son... bounce pass!” The four-time NBA champion appeared to gesture for a bounce pass to Bronny, signaling that he should have opted for that instead of the direct pass that was blocked midair. The moment highlighted the blend of professional and personal dynamics in the James family, as Bronny, 21, and LeBron, 41, continued to navigate their roles as teammates and father and son. Bronny and LeBron had already made history earlier in the season when they achieved the first father-son assist in NBA history during a game against the Brooklyn Nets on March 27. Bronny hit a 3-pointer after receiving a pass from his dad, and the Lakers went on to a 116-99 victory.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #dallas_mavericks #bronny_james #marvin_bagley_iii

Luka Doncic: Los Angeles Lakers Star to Miss Rest of Regular NBA Season with Injury The Los Angeles Lakers, who have already secured a playoff berth, announced that star player Luka Doncic will miss the remaining five games of the regular NBA season due to a left hamstring injury. The Slovenian forward, 27, had been in fierce contention for the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award after a historic March that saw him become only the 10th player in NBA history to score 600 points in a single month. However, a grade two strain of his hamstring, sustained during Thursday’s heavy loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, has forced him to sit out the final stretch of the regular season. Doncic, who is the NBA’s leading scorer this season with 2,143 points, averages an unprecedented 33.5 points per game. His injury comes after he had previously missed four games earlier in the season due to a similar hamstring strain and missed two games in December to return to Slovenia for the birth of his daughter. These absences have left him one appearance short of the 65 required games to qualify for the league’s major end-of-season awards. To address this, his agent, Bill Duffy, has stated that Doncic will apply for an “Extraordinary Circumstances Challenge” to the 65-game rule, arguing that his historic season deserves recognition despite the setbacks. Duffy emphasized Doncic’s impact on the Lakers’ success, noting that the Slovenian’s performance led the team to a third-place finish in the Western Conference and placed him at the center of one of the most competitive MVP races in recent memory.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #dallas_mavericks #nba_playoffs

Luka Doncic Totals 600 Points in March; Lakers Go 15-2 LOS ANGELES -- Luka Doncic’s dominance in March reached historic proportions as the Dallas Mavericks star scored 600 points during the month, joining Michael Jordan as the only player to achieve the feat in March and one of just 10 athletes to reach 600 points in any single month. The milestone came during the Lakers’ 127-113 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday, where Doncic poured in 42 points and added 12 assists. Coach JJ Redick praised Doncic’s performance, calling it one of the best months in modern NBA history. “I think Luka has had as good of a month as anybody that I can remember in the modern NBA, at least since I've been part of it,” Redick said. Doncic’s 600-point mark in March was part of a streak of three consecutive 40-point games, showcasing his ability to carry the Lakers’ offense. His efforts were complemented by the team’s overall success, as the Lakers finished the month with a 15-2 record. “If you don't win, it doesn't really mean anything,” Doncic said when asked about his scoring surge. “So the run we've been on, it means a lot.” The Lakers’ strong performance in March helped them secure a playoff berth, with six games remaining in the regular season. Two of those games are against the Oklahoma City Thunder, starting Thursday on the road. The win over the Cavaliers was also significant for LeBron James, who reached his 1,229th career victory (regular season and playoffs), surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most wins by any player in NBA history. The milestone marked a historic moment for James, who has been a dominant force in the league for over a decade.#los_angeles #lakers #luka_doncic #cleveland_cavaliers #dallas_mavericks

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