The Dallas Mavericks are at a pivotal juncture, navigating the aftermath of a season marked by significant roster changes and unexpected opportunities. The midseason trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers shocked the NBA, as we all were questioning the franchise’s direction.
However, fortune favored the Mavericks when they secured the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, despite having only a 1.8% chance, positioning them to select Duke’s standout prospect, Cooper Flagg.
Amid these developments, reports from ESPN’s Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania indicate that the Mavericks are actively exploring options to acquire a new point guard to enhance their backcourt dynamics.
With a focus on building a cohesive and competitive roster around Anthony Davis and the anticipated addition of Flagg, the Mavericks are evaluating several potential candidates to fill this critical role. The following are six point guards who could be instrumental in shaping the Mavericks’ 2025-26 season.
1. Coby White
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Coby White
Chicago Bulls Receive: P.J. Washington, Jaden Hardy, 2031 First-Round Pick (DAL), 2031 Second-Round Pick (DAL)
Trading P.J. Washington, Jaden Hardy, and a 2031 first-round pick to the Chicago Bulls for Coby White could be a stroke of genius by the Mavericks. White, 25, is coming off a career-best season, averaging 20.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game. His recent performances, including a 44-point game against the Orlando Magic, underscore his scoring capabilities.
White’s youth and offensive prowess align with Dallas’s potential long-term plans. Integrating him into the roster could provide the Mavericks with a reliable scoring option and a foundational piece for future success.
2. Jrue Holiday
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Jrue Holiday
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Daniel Gafford, Jaden Hardy, 2031 Second-Round Pick (DAL)
The Dallas Mavericks could consider acquiring Jrue Holiday from the Boston Celtics in exchange for Jaden Hardy, Daniel Gafford, and a 2031 second-round pick. Holiday, a seasoned 34-year-old guard, averaged 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game during the 2024-25 regular season.
His defensive prowess was on full display in the playoffs, notably in Game 1 against the Orlando Magic, where he held opponents to just 2-of-10 shooting as the primary defender.
Beyond his on-court contributions, Holiday’s leadership and experience are invaluable. Integrating Holiday could provide the stability and defensive tenacity for the Mavericks to make a Finals run next year.
3. D’Angelo Russell
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign-and-Trade)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Daniel Gafford, Jaden Hardy, 2031 Second-Round Pick (DAL)
A sign-and-trade deal with the Brooklyn Nets involving D’Angelo Russell for Gafford, Hardy, and a second-round pick could inject offensive firepower into the Mavericks’ lineup. Russell, 29, posted averages of 12.6 points and 5.1 assists per game in the 2024-25 season.
While his shooting percentages dipped (39.0% FG, 31.4% 3-PT FG), his playmaking abilities remain a valuable asset, and he could return to his form from a few seasons ago. Russell’s prior stint with the Nets showcased his potential as a primary ball-handler and scorer.
Reuniting with the franchise in a new capacity could rejuvenate his performance. For Dallas, acquiring Russell would mean adding a dynamic guard capable of orchestrating the offense and alleviating pressure from Kyrie Irving.
4. Malcolm Brogdon
Utilizing the mid-level exception to sign free agent Malcolm Brogdon could offer the Mavericks a seasoned and reliable point guard. In the 2024-25 season with the Washington Wizards, Brogdon averaged 12.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game.
His efficient shooting and calm demeanor make him a valuable asset off the bench or as a spot starter, and he was critical to the title-contending Boston Celtics two seasons ago. If the Mavs want efficiency, they need to look at Brogdon.
5. Dennis Schroder
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Dennis Schroder
Detroit Pistons Receive: P.J. Washington, 2031 Second-Round Pick (DAL)
A sign-and-trade deal sending P.J. Washington and a second-round pick to the Detroit Pistons for Dennis Schroder could enhance the Mavericks’ perimeter offense. After all, Schroder averaged 13.1 points and 5.4 assists per game in the 2024-25 season.
Schroder’s defensive prowess and veteran leadership could be instrumental in fortifying the Mavericks’ backcourt. His tenacity on defense and ability to mentor younger players align with Dallas’s objectives of building a resilient culture without Luka.
6. Chris Paul
Chris Paul, currently 40 years old and heading to free agency, defied expectations during the 2024–25 NBA season with the San Antonio Spurs. Averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists (ranking seventh in the league), and 1.3 steals per game, Paul became the first player in NBA history to start all 82 games in his 20th season.
His durability and leadership were instrumental in the Spurs’ 12-game improvement over the previous season, culminating in a 34-win campaign. For the Dallas Mavericks, acquiring Paul could provide the veteran presence needed to guide a roster featuring Anthony Davis and the anticipated addition of Cooper Flagg.
