In a surprising move, free agent point guard D'Angelo Russell has decided to join the Dallas Mavericks on a two-year, $13 million deal. The Mavericks will utilize their taxpayer midlevel exception to secure the services of the talented playmaker, who averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists per game last season split between the Lakers and Nets. With Kyrie Irving sidelined due to a torn ACL, Russell is expected to step in as the starting point guard until Irving's anticipated return in 2026, at which point he may transition to a key reserve role.
The signing of Russell not only bolsters the Mavericks' backcourt but also reunites him with former Lakers teammate Anthony Davis in Dallas. Despite interest from other teams, including the Lakers and Nets, Russell ultimately chose to join forces with the Mavericks in a deal brokered by Mavericks officials and CAA Co-Heads of Basketball. With the dynamic duo of Russell and Davis now in the mix, Mavericks fans can look forward to an exciting upcoming season as their team makes a push towards playoff contention.