Mavericks Reportedly Eyeing Nets’ D’Angelo Russell

Mavericks Reportedly Eyeing Nets’ D’Angelo Russell

Russell, 29, was selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2015 NBA Draft. He is preparing for his his 11th NBA season after playing for multiple teams through a series of trades. Russell began last season with the Lakers before returning to the Nets in December. Brooklyn acquired him, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. Russell earned $18.7 million last season and appeared in 29 games for the Nets. He averaged 12.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists for Brooklyn while finding his rhythm late in the year. Still, the Nets finished 12th in the East with a 26–56 record, among the league’s worst.

Under coach Jordi Fernandez, Russell thrived playing free basketball on offense and regained his rhythm. He also served as a steady veteran presence in the Nets’ locker room. In an interview with Erik Slater of ClutchPoints, Russell expressed his desire to remain with the Nets. “I think just what the future holds with this group [is why I want to be back].” He added, “Obviously, what (head coach) Jordi [Fernandez] and (general manager) Sean [Marks] are creating, I’m familiar with it. Being somewhere familiar is something I’m definitely prioritizing.”

D’Angelo Russell To The Mavericks

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Dallas Mavericks are the top contender to sign Russell in free agency. Chris Paul has also been another player linked to Dallas as a potential option. The Mavericks recently drafted Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick and the most celebrated college player of the year. Despite a successful draft night, Dallas lacks a true point guard with Kyrie Irving sidelined by a torn ACL suffered in March. His absence creates a major void in the Mavericks’ backcourt rotation. Russell could strengthen Dallas’ rotation and immediately take charge of the offense. He would be a starter until Irving returns. He also shares proven on-court chemistry with Anthony Davis from their time together with the Lakers.

Last week, the Mavericks re-signed Irving to a three-year deal. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the contract unlocked a $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel exception for Dallas. That exception gives the Mavericks flexibility to pursue Russell in free agency. Although the Nets have cap space, they may choose not to bring the veteran point guard back. Brooklyn is building around a younger, more cost-efficient roster and selected four guards in last week’s draft.

Next Chapter

Russell is preparing to enter unrestricted free agency. The Nets reshaped his career twice and gave him lasting memories in Brooklyn. Now, he could join the Mavericks, a team with real championship aspirations. Dallas presents a fresh opportunity with a contending roster to redefine his next chapter.