3 biggest questions for Dallas Mavericks heading into 2026

The Dallas Mavericks (12-22) have struggled this season. The shock trade of Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers ended in the firing of former general manager Nico Harrison.

Injuries to key players have also not helped matters. Many will forget that this was a Mavs team that made it to the 2024 NBA Finals. Entering 2026, here are the three biggest questions for the Mavericks in the upcoming year.

1. What is the Mavericks’ long-term roster identity?

Heading into the New Year, one of the most critical questions faced by the Dallas Mavericks will be if they can realistically compete now. The firing of Harrison, which has calmed the fan base, has shown that the decision makers are willing to make the tough choices.

Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.

Anthony Davis - Source: Imagn

His firing saw key players reportedly placed on the trade mill. However, minority owner Mark Cuban publicly dismissed the trade rumors involving Anthony Davis, signaling that the front office still wants to compete now rather than tear everything down.

2. Will Cooper Flagg and other young pieces develop into franchise cornerstones?

Cooper Flagg joined Dallas as the 2025 NBA draft first pick after the team won the draft lottery with 1.8% chance. He joined after an exceptional freshman season at Duke and expectations were sky-high for the young star to make an immediate impact and be a foundational piece for years to come.

Cooper Flagg - Source: Imagn

Another former Duke star Dereck Lively II, whose fourth-year option was recently picked up, represents a building block. But questions remain about his readiness to take on larger roles. Meanwhile, veterans like Daniel Gafford have yet to establish a clear long-term role, and other players like Max Christie and Brandon Williams are still finding consistency.

3. How will injuries and star availability dictate the 2026 path?

One of the major reasons things failed to click after their road to the 2024 NBA Finals was injuries to key players. Kyrie Irving is recovering from a torn ACL and is not expected to be back until early 2026. Even when he returns, the team will have to figure out how he reintegrates seamlessly into their system.

Kyrie Irving (11) reacts after suffering an injury - Source: Imagn

Another issue is the long-term viability of Anthony Davis. The one-time champion has struggled with injuries throughout his career and his recent injury on Christmas Day is something all those involved with Dallas will not want to happen.

While it would take a lot for the Mavericks to make it to the playoffs, their priority in 2026 should be about finding a long-term solution to all their problems. How the trio of Flagg, Davis and Irving will blend together is something fans and critics will eagerly look forward to.

Edited by Ubong Richard