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3d ago

Dirk Nowitzki Welcomes Cooper Flagg as Matt Barnes Calls Mavericks West Threat if Healthy

Anthony Davis’ availability, along with Kyrie Irving’s recovery, looms as the swing factor as Dallas finalizes preseason plans.

Dirk Nowitzki watches the game between the Dallas Wings and the Seattle Storm during the first half at College Park Center
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Matt Barnes bats as he participates in Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts (50) celebrity softball game prior to the game agains the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium

Overview

  • The Mavericks posted a video on X showing Nowitzki greeting and chatting with No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, boosting fan excitement ahead of his debut.
  • Matt Barnes said Dallas could “easily represent the Western Conference in the Finals” if the roster stays healthy, emphasizing Anthony Davis as the key.
  • Barnes praised Flagg’s motor and defensive versatility, suggesting the rookie can guard multiple positions as his jumper continues to develop.
  • Dallas surrounds Flagg with veterans and champions, including Davis, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell, plus young bigs Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II and P.J. Washington.
  • Irving is rehabbing a torn ACL without an official return timeline, and the preseason opener against the Thunder is set for October 6.