Dusty May Still Evaluating Mavericks Starting Lineup
Dallas coach Dusty May said he has not settled on a starting five, instead evaluating various two- and three-man lineup combinations during camp. Cooper Flagg praised the new coaching staff's energy and culture, while rookie Morez Johnson Jr. has been limited by lower leg soreness. Zaccharie Risacher, acquired in a trade, expressed confidence in the Mavericks ahead of a November 2 deadline for his fourth-year option.
Dallas coach Dusty May said he has not chosen a starting five, instead testing various two-, three-, one-, and five-man combinations in camp. Kyrie Irving is returning from an ACL injury and is expected to play alongside Cooper Flagg, the reigning Rookie of the Year.
Rookie Morez Johnson Jr. has been limited by lower leg soreness, while Santi Aldama and Dereck Lively II also deal with leg issues. Zaccharie Risacher, acquired by trade, faces a November 2 deadline for his $17.4MM fourth-year option and says team leaders made him feel wanted. Sergio de Larrea is adapting to NBA size and spacing.
The Mavericks' coaching transition and lineup uncertainty may affect fans, players, and local businesses tied to game attendance. If May builds a cohesive culture around Flagg and Irving, it could boost engagement and merchandise interest. Injury management for young bigs may shape expectations for player welfare. Risacher's option decision could influence how players and agents view Dallas as a destination. These are possibilities, not predictions.