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Mavericks sign D’Angelo Russell in major free agency move, sparking mixed reactions over Anthony Davis reunion

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 8:01 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks continue their aggressive offseason overhaul with another blockbuster move.

After drafting Cooper Flagg with the number one pick and making strategic undrafted signings, Dallas has secured a proven veteran guard in D’Angelo Russell on a two-year, $13 million deal.

The signing addresses a critical need as Kyrie Irving recovers from a torn ACL injury. Russell provides immediate depth and experience to a Mavericks team determined to maximize their championship window.

D’Angelo Russell becomes perfect Kyrie Irving insurance policy

Russell will serve as Irving’s primary backup and potential replacement during his recovery period. The former All-Star guard brings proven playmaking ability despite experiencing a statistical decline last season.

Russell averaged 12.6 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.8 rebounds while splitting time between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets.

Team chemistry issues and injuries influenced those decreased numbers, but his fundamental skills remain intact.

The 29-year-old veteran offers crucial floor leadership and shot creation that Dallas desperately needed. His ability to facilitate offense for other stars makes him an ideal complement for the Mavericks.

Breaking: Free agent guard D'Angelo Russell has agreed on a two-year, $13 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, sources tell ESPN. Mavericks officials and CAA Co-Heads of Basketball Austin Brown/Aaron Mintz and Antonio Russell reached the new contract after free agency began. pic.twitter.com/eljDwhDSUu
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025

Financial savvy makes Russell signing a franchise-changing bargain

The Mavericks secured Russell using their $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel exception, with the total deal approaching $12-13 million over two years.

This represents exceptional value compared to Russell’s previous contracts that averaged $18 million annually.

Russell’s willingness to accept significantly less than his previous Lakers deal demonstrates his commitment to winning over maximizing salary. The team-friendly structure allows Dallas to maintain financial flexibility while adding proven talent.

General Manager Nico Harrison continues showcasing shrewd roster construction, balancing veteran experience with emerging talent.

This approach positions Dallas as a legitimate contender despite salary cap constraints.

Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images

Russell–Davis reunion in Dallas sparks mixed reactions

The projected starting five of the Mavericks next season includes Russell, Klay Thompson, Cooper Flagg, Anthony Davis , and Daniel Gafford when Irving remains sidelined.

This combination features three former All-Stars, a promising rookie, and solid rim protection. The blend of veteran experience and young talent creates intriguing possibilities for coach Jason Kidd’s system.

Solid signing to fill Kyrie minutes in the short-term but DLo & AD were a pretty inefficient pick-and-roll duo in LA. Maybe things will be different in Dallas.
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 30, 2025

That lineup will also remind the NBA community of the collaboration between Russell and Davis since their Lakers‘ tenure showed that they aren‘t a good pick-and-roll partnership.

Some think things could be different in Dallas, while others think the story will remain the same.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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