A Timeline Of How The Dallas Mavericks Built A Powerful Team With Luka And Kyrie

The Dallas Mavericks‘ road to their 2011 NBA Championship is one for the books. After years of coming close but not quite making it, they finally clinched their first title. This was thanks to the magic mix of Dirk Nowitzki’s brilliance, Jason Kidd’s leadership, and the defensive powerhouse of Tyson Chandler. Beating the Miami Heat, with their star-studded lineup of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, was a huge upset and showed just how special this Mavs team was.

Post-2011, things got rough. The Mavericks tried to keep the momentum going but faced a lot of challenges. Key players aged, and despite bringing in new talent, they couldn’t win a playoff series for the next 10 years, with 4 missed postseasons and 6 first round exits until 2022. It was a tough stretch, but the team never gave up, focusing on rebuilding and bringing in new, young talent. This phase had its highs and lows, but the Mavericks stayed committed to getting back to the top.

Fast forward to today, and the Mavericks are back in the spotlight. With a 4-1 win in the Western Conference Finals, they’re on another NBA Finals appearance. The addition of stars like Luka Doncic and recently Kyrie Irving has reignited the team’s competitive spirit. The Mavericks’ ability to adapt and rebuild while staying true to their roots has them ready for another shot at glory.

June 21, 2018 – The Luka Doncic Trade On Draft Night

On June 21, 2018, the Dallas Mavericks made a franchise-altering move by trading for Luka Doncic during the NBA Draft. Originally picked third overall by the Atlanta Hawks, Doncic was traded to the Mavericks in exchange for Trae Young, the fifth overall pick, and a protected first-round pick in 2019. This trade set the stage for the Mavericks’ resurgence in the NBA.

Doncic’s rookie season in 2018-19 was phenomenal. He averaged 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award. His immediate impact on the court was undeniable, showcasing his unique ability to score, facilitate, and rebound.

In the 2019-20 season, Doncic continued to shine, leading the Mavericks to the playoffs. He averaged 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game during the regular season. In the playoffs, Doncic had several standout performances, including a memorable game-winning buzzer-beater against the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite his efforts, the Mavericks were eliminated in that first round.

The following season, 2020-21, saw Doncic and the Mavericks return to the playoffs with high hopes. Doncic’s regular season stats remained impressive, with averages of 27.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game. In the playoffs, the Mavericks once again faced the Clippers in the first round. Doncic put up extraordinary numbers, but the team fell short, losing in seven games.

In the 2021-22 season, Doncic led the Mavericks to a deep playoff run. Averaging 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game, he was instrumental in guiding the team to the Western Conference Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Golden State Warriors. This marked the Mavericks’ best playoff performance since their championship run in 2011.

By the 2023-24 season, Doncic had firmly established himself as one of the NBA’s elite players. This season, he averaged 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game, leading the Mavericks to one of their best records in recent years. His playoff performances have continued to impress, helping the team advance to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2011.

The trade on draft night in 2018 is now seen as a pivotal moment for the Mavericks. Doncic’s arrival brought hope and a clear path toward contention. The decision to trade up and secure Doncic has paid off immensely, positioning Dallas as a perennial contender and giving them a superstar around whom they can build. In conclusion, the acquisition of Luka Doncic has been a game-changer for the Dallas Mavericks, setting the stage for years of success and making them a formidable force in the NBA once again.

June 28, 2021 – Hiring Jason Kidd As The New Head Coach

On June 28, 2021, the Dallas Mavericks appointed Jason Kidd as their new head coach, a move aimed at revitalizing the team following the resignation of Rick Carlisle, who had led the team for 13 seasons. Carlisle’s departure marked the end of an era, highlighted by the Mavericks’ 2011 NBA Championship.

Jason Kidd, a Hall of Famer and former Mavericks player, brought a wealth of experience to his new role. He had previously served as head coach for the Brooklyn Nets and the Milwaukee Bucks, where he played a pivotal role in developing Giannis Antetokounmpo. His familiarity with the Mavericks organization and his championship pedigree made him a strong candidate for the position.

Kidd led the team to a 52-30 record in his first season with the Mavericks, advancing to the Western Conference Finals, where they were ultimately defeated. The following season was less successful, with the team finishing with a 38-44 record, missing the playoffs. However, this setback allowed them to acquire valuable players in the NBA Draft.

The 2023-24 season saw a resurgence under Kidd’s leadership. The Mavericks finished with a 50-32 record, winning the Southwest Division title. This marked their fifth divisional championship, and Kidd’s efforts were crucial in achieving this milestone. His impact on player development and team culture has been significant, helping the Mavericks remain competitive in a challenging league.

Kidd’s extension, signed in May 2024, reflects the organization’s confidence in his ability to lead the team to future success. Under his guidance, the Mavericks have made two playoff appearances in three seasons, including a deep run in the Championship series this year, where they’ll face off against the Celtics for the title.

February 6, 2023 – Trading For Kyrie Irving From The Nets

On February 6, 2023, the Dallas Mavericks made a significant move by trading for star guard Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets. In this blockbuster deal, the Mavericks received Kyrie Irving and Markieff Morris, while the Nets acquired Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, an unprotected 2029 first-round pick, and second-round picks in 2027 and 2029.

Kyrie Irving, an eight-time All-Star, joined the Mavericks after a tumultuous tenure with the Nets marked by high-profile controversies and inconsistent availability. Despite these issues, Irving remained a highly productive player, averaging 27.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game in the 2022-23 season before the trade. His arrival in Dallas aimed to provide another scoring and playmaking option alongside Luka Doncic, helping to ease Doncic’s heavy offensive load.

The trade came shortly after Irving requested to be moved, driven by dissatisfaction with the Nets’ refusal to offer him a full maximum salary extension. The addition of Irving was seen as a bold move by the Mavericks to bolster their roster for a strong playoff push in a highly competitive Western Conference. While there were questions about how Irving and Doncic would fit together, the trade underscored Dallas’ commitment to building a championship-contending team around their star player.

Irving’s impact on the Mavericks was immediate and profound. During the 2023-24 regular season, he played 58 games, averaging 25.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency was impressive, with a field goal percentage of 49.7% and a three-point shooting percentage of 41.1%. This performance helped lift the Mavericks’ offensive game, providing a much-needed scoring punch alongside Luka Doncic.

In the 2024 playoffs, Irving has continued to showcase his talents. He’s averaged 22.4 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game over 15 playoff games. One of his standout performances came in Game 6 of the first-round series against the Los Angeles Clippers, where he scored 30 points, including 28 points in the second half, leading the Mavericks to a 114-101 victory and securing their advancement to the Western Conference Semifinals.

Another key performance was in the semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Irving, alongside Doncic and P.J. Washington, combined for 71 points in Game 3, helping the Mavericks secure a crucial 105-101 win. Also, on Game 3 of the Conference Finals, he scored 31 points behind Doncic’s 33 to cement the 3-0 lead.

Overall, the acquisition of Kyrie Irving has been a significant boost for the Mavericks, both in the regular season and the playoffs, reinforcing their status as strong contenders in the Western Conference and getting back into a Finals series more than a decade later, that’ll see his controversial return to Boston in a playoff series.

June 22, 2023 – Drafting Dereck Lively With The No. 12 Pick

On June 22, 2023, the Dallas Mavericks drafted Dereck Lively II with the No. 12 overall pick in the NBA Draft. The Mavericks acquired Lively from the Oklahoma City Thunder in a trade that saw Dallas move down from the No. 10 pick.

Dereck Lively II made an immediate impact in his rookie season. Standing at 7’1″ with a 7’7″ wingspan, Lively showcased his defensive prowess and athleticism throughout the regular season. He averaged 8.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. His defensive instincts and ability to protect the rim were crucial for the Mavericks, making him a key component of their defensive schemes.

In the 2024 playoffs, Lively’s role became even more significant. He continued to be a defensive anchor for the Mavericks, averaging 8.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game across the postseason. His standout performance came in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he recorded 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 assists, helping Dallas secure a crucial victory.

Overall, Dereck Lively II’s rookie season and playoff performances highlighted his potential to become a cornerstone for the Mavericks. His development as a reliable defensive presence and improving offensive skills bode well for Dallas’s future aspirations in the NBA.

February 8, 2024 – Bringing In PJ Washington From Charlotte

On February 8, 2024, the Dallas Mavericks bolstered their roster by trading for P.J. Washington from the Charlotte Hornets. In this deal, the Mavericks received Washington along with two future second-round picks, while sending Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and a top-2 protected 2027 first-round pick to the Hornets.

During the regular season, Washington quickly integrated into the Mavericks’ lineup, playing 29 games. He averaged 11.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His versatility and defensive prowess added significant depth to the Mavericks’ frontcourt, making him a key player in their rotation.

Washington’s performance elevated in the 2024 playoffs, where he played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ deep postseason run. Over 15 playoff games, he averaged 14.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. One of his standout moments came in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he led the Mavericks with 27 points in a pivotal 105-101 victory.

Additionally, Washington showcased his clutch ability in Game 6 of the same series. With the game on the line, he was fouled on a three-point attempt with 2.5 seconds remaining. He made two of the three free throws, securing a 117-116 victory for the Mavericks and advancing them to the Western Conference Finals.

February 26, 2024 – An Underrated Move For Daniel Gafford

On February 26, 2024, the Dallas Mavericks pulled off a smart move by trading for Daniel Gafford from the Washington Wizards. They sent Richaun Holmes and a 2024 first-round pick to the Wizards in exchange for Gafford, aiming to beef up their defense and add more depth to their frontcourt.

Gafford made an immediate impact with the Mavericks, playing 29 games during the regular season and averaging 11.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. His ability to protect the rim and contribute offensively helped solidify the Mavericks’ interior presence.

In the 2024 playoffs, Gafford continued to be an essential player for the Mavericks. Over 15 playoff games, he averaged 8.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. One of his standout performances came in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he recorded 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 blocks.

This performance helped the Mavericks secure a vital win and demonstrated Gafford’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Gafford’s contributions have been invaluable to the Mavericks’ playoff run, proving the trade to be a pivotal move in their quest for a championship.

Overall Thoughts

Reflecting on the Dallas Mavericks’ journey over the past several years, it’s clear that their strategic moves have significantly reshaped the team’s trajectory. The decision to trade up for Luka Doncic during the 2018 NBA Draft was a game-changer. Doncic quickly proved himself as a superstar, earning Rookie of the Year honors and setting the foundation for the Mavericks’ future success.

In June 2021, the Mavericks hired Jason Kidd as head coach. Kidd brought a fresh perspective and valuable experience, guiding the team to a 52-30 record and advancing to the Western Conference Finals in his first season. This move was crucial in developing a cohesive team strategy centered around Doncic.

Then, the Mavericks decided to go all-in on a blockbuster move for Kyrie Irving, who did not bring immediate success to the franchise, finishing 38-44 and missing the playoffs. However, this allowed them to make important roster adjustments. The acquisition of Dereck Lively II in the 2023 NBA Draft added a promising young center to their lineup.

Yet, their under-the-radar but key acquisitions of the 2024 deadline with PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford further transformed this Mavericks squad into a dark horse contender, a team that has quieted all doubts around them with two superstars at the peak of their powers and a great supporting cast.

Their ability to blend experienced stars with promising young talent has set them up for both immediate and long-term success. This strategic foresight and adaptability highlight the Mavericks’ commitment to building a championship-contending team around Luka Doncic.