The Mavericks spent the offseason attacking their biggest problems, but ESPN still isn’t buying in.
In the network’s latest post-offseason power rankings, Dallas landed at No. 23 - the same spot it held a month ago when ESPN released its first ranking after the NBA Finals. That’s a tough sell for a team that overhauled its roster through the draft and trades, especially after a 56-loss season.
Dallas brought in Morez Johnson Jr., Sergio De Larrea and Tobi Lawal through the draft, then added Marcus Sasser, Santi Aldama, Zaccharie Risacher and Tarik Biberovic in trades. On paper, the Mavericks clearly addressed depth and filled out a roster that needed help in multiple places. ESPN, though, did not move them much in its view of the Western Conference picture.
A big part of Dallas’ offseason reset came with the coaching change. Team President Masai Ujiri moved quickly to begin the Cooper Flagg era by hiring Dusty May as the team’s new coach.
Not long after, the Mavericks drafted Morez Johnson Jr., May’s former player. Johnson, the former Michigan standout, was one of the bright spots of Summer League, showing off his game at both ends of the floor.
The Michigan connection matters here. May has a reputation for getting more out of his players, and that should matter for both Flagg and Johnson Jr.
Flagg is headed into his second season, and the expectation is that May’s coaching will help him take a real step forward. Johnson, meanwhile, brings a two-way forward’s edge and should keep developing under a coach who already knows how to use him.
Another reason Dallas should look different next season is Kyrie Irving. His return was a major piece ESPN’s ranking seemed to overlook. Irving gives the Mavericks something they badly lacked last year: shot creation, reliable shooting and a late-game threat who can take over when things tighten up.
That matters because Dallas was one of the worst shooting teams last season and didn’t have enough players who could create their own offense. Cooper Flagg also didn’t have enough help when defenses collapsed on him.
Irving changes that equation. He was one of Dallas’ top shooters the season he tore his ACL, and he should give the team a much-needed lift in close games, too.
The European additions could also pay off quickly. De Larrea showed his passing and playmaking during Summer League in Las Vegas, and he looks like a candidate to help with the backup point guard spot.
Biberovic brings shooting, which is exactly what Dallas needed around Flagg. The Mavericks were able to buy out his international contract and sign him to a standard deal, making him another piece that should fit right in.
Dallas did not stand still this offseason. It added size, shooting, playmaking and a new coach, all while waiting for Irving’s return.
That’s why the No. 23 slot feels low. ESPN may not be impressed yet, but the Mavericks have given themselves a very different look heading into next season.
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