The Mavericks won’t be bringing Vsevolod Ishchenko stateside for the 2026/27 season. The No. 56 overall pick, whose draft rights are controlled by Dallas, is set to stay in Russia and continue with Lokomotiv Kuban, his agent Nafiset Udychak told All Things Mavs.
Udychak said Lokomotiv Kuban and Dallas have kept the lines of communication open and are aligned on the player’s path forward.
“ Lokomotiv Kuban and Dallas have built a strong working relationship. The clubs are in constant communication and share the same vision for the player’s development,” Udychak said in a statement.
He added that another year overseas is designed to help Ishchenko keep growing with real responsibility and steady minutes.
“ We believe this is the best step for Seva’s long-term development. He’ll have another season in a great environment with meaningful minutes, a lot of responsibility, and the opportunity to keep improving every part of his game.
“ What’s important is that this decision doesn’t change how Seva feels about Dallas. He loved his experience with the Mavericks organization, appreciated how everyone welcomed him, and remains very motivated to earn his opportunity in the NBA. We see this as another year of development, not a change in the destination.
“ Please tell the Mavs fans how grateful Seva is for all the support they showed him during Summer League. It meant a lot to him.”
The update surfaced in early August, though it wasn’t immediately clear at the time what the next step would be. That changed after Ishchenko wasn’t listed on the Texas Legends training camp roster, prompting a deeper look at his plans.
Ishchenko then confirmed the move himself at a press conference on August 8.
“ As for returning to Lokomotiv Kuban, it wasn’t just me making the decision; it was everyone together: Dallas and Loko,” Ishchenko said as part of a larger quote. “ The best option for me was to return here and play in Krasnodar next season.
Also, it’s great to be back with my home team, the place where I grew up and spent so many years. I really enjoy playing here, just being here.
We’ve set the most ambitious goals for next season, and want to have a successful one. Therefore, we will work and try to progress.”
Ishchenko’s return to Lokomotiv Kuban isn’t a surprise. The Russian guard/forward has spent the past few years there and was widely viewed as a draft-and-stash type prospect.
Last season, he averaged 8.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting .506/.451/.781 in 48 games and 23.6 minutes per night. At Summer League in Las Vegas, the 6-foot-8 wing played five games for Dallas, posting 9.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.2 steals in 27.5 minutes per game while shooting .433/.400/.611.
With Ishchenko staying in Russia, the status of all of the 2026 draft picks is now accounted for.
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