The Dallas Mavericks are in a transitional phase at the top of their basketball operations department, and it looks like that transition won’t be resolved anytime soon.
Following the firing of Nico Harrison on November 11, the Mavericks turned to a pair of internal voices-Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi-to serve as co-interim general managers. At the time, the organization made it clear that this move was temporary, with plans to conduct a “comprehensive” search for a permanent head of basketball operations. But as of now, that search is still very much on hold.
According to recent reporting, the Mavericks aren’t expected to name Harrison’s full-time successor for “several” months. That puts Finley and Riccardi in the driver’s seat for the foreseeable future-at least through the February 5 trade deadline, and potentially all the way through the end of the season.
It’s a significant vote of confidence in the interim duo, especially with the trade deadline looming. The front office will be tasked with navigating a pivotal stretch for a team that has playoff aspirations and a superstar talent in Luka Dončić. Any moves made-or not made-over the next few months could have ripple effects well beyond this season.
While both Finley and Riccardi are expected to be in the mix for the permanent job, Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont is reportedly leaning toward hiring someone with prior experience as a lead decision-maker in an NBA front office. That suggests the eventual search will cast a wide net, with the front office likely opening up the process in earnest this coming spring.
One name already drawing attention is Dennis Lindsey. The longtime NBA executive, currently serving as the Pistons’ senior VP of basketball operations, has a résumé that includes a successful run as GM of the Utah Jazz and a stint as an advisor with the Mavericks.
He also has Texas roots, which could be a factor in his favor. Reports indicate that minority owner Mark Cuban would be supportive of bringing Lindsey on board.
For now, though, the Mavericks are rolling with the team they’ve got. Finley and Riccardi will steer the ship through the trade deadline and potentially beyond, with the long-term vision for the front office still taking shape behind the scenes. It’s a critical stretch for Dallas-not just on the court, but in the front office as well.