Breaking Down the Full 2025-26 Dallas Mavericks Roster: Key Additions, Star Power, and a New Era of Championship Aspirations in the Western Conference.
The Dallas Mavericks enter the 2025-26 NBA season with a roster that reflects strategic team-building, continuity at the top, and a firm belief that the championship window is wide open. From the superstar pairing of Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving to emerging young talents and savvy veterans, Dallas has constructed a lineup aimed at both offensive brilliance and two-way versatility. This year’s roster doesn’t just build on last season’s success—it sharpens it. With playoff-tested experience and crucial offseason additions, the Mavericks are signaling to the league that they’re not just here to compete—they’re here to conquer.
At the heart of this team remains Luka Dončić, the perennial MVP candidate who continues to evolve into one of the most dominant forces in the game. Entering his seventh NBA season, Dončić has already rewritten the record books and redefined the expectations for a modern-day franchise player. With unmatched court vision, elite scoring ability, and a basketball IQ that belies his age, Luka is the engine behind everything Dallas does. His leadership has grown alongside his game, and the front office has taken every step to maximize his prime.
Kyrie Irving continues to be a crucial piece of that puzzle. Though questions followed his 2023 arrival, he’s since settled into a rhythm alongside Dončić that defies the conventional wisdom that two high-usage ballhandlers can’t coexist. Irving’s clutch scoring, timely shot creation, and gravity-altering handle give Dallas another layer of offensive unpredictability. While Luka orchestrates the flow, Kyrie breaks the rules of defensive schemes. Together, they make up one of the most dynamic backcourts in the league. Both have committed long-term to the franchise, and their synergy is better than ever.
But this team isn’t just about its two stars. Dallas spent the offseason making targeted moves to reinforce its depth and frontcourt presence. The biggest acquisition was Cam Thomas, a dynamic scorer who arrives from Brooklyn with something to prove. Thomas, a microwave off the bench or a potential starter depending on matchups, brings instant offense and a fearless mentality. While he occasionally drew criticism for tunnel vision with the Nets, in Dallas he’ll be given defined structure and space to thrive. His shot creation will be vital when Dončić and Irving rest or face double-teams.
Another major name returning to the fold is Dereck Lively II, who burst onto the scene last season as a defensive anchor. The young center’s ability to protect the rim, rebound, and finish lobs made him a critical component of Dallas’ identity. With another year of experience and strength under his belt, Lively is expected to start at the five and serve as the backbone of the team’s interior defense. His presence allows the Mavericks to play aggressive perimeter defense, knowing they have an eraser behind them.
Grant Williams remains a key part of the rotation as well. Though his offensive numbers don’t leap off the page, Williams’ value comes through physical defense, spacing, and hustle. He’s a classic glue guy who does the dirty work, sets screens, defends multiple positions, and stretches the floor just enough to demand respect from opposing defenses. His versatility allows head coach Jason Kidd to play with different lineup combinations without compromising identity or toughness.
Speaking of versatility, Josh Green continues his development into a reliable two-way wing. Green’s athleticism, slashing, and perimeter defense give Dallas a much-needed boost on the wing. He’s shown signs of being a three-and-D contributor who can also make plays in transition and cut effectively without the ball. Green’s improvement from year to year has been steady, and the Mavericks hope this is the season he takes a leap from role player to impactful rotation fixture.
Also returning is Tim Hardaway Jr., a veteran sharpshooter who provides spacing and secondary scoring. While his role may fluctuate given the depth of this year’s roster, Hardaway remains one of the few Mavericks with deep playoff experience in Dallas and a scorer capable of erupting at any moment. His ability to heat up from three can swing games, particularly in second units where he’ll be tasked with punishing weaker defenders.
In terms of frontcourt support, the Mavericks bolstered their depth by acquiring a veteran enforcer in Daniel Gafford. The former Wizards big man fits seamlessly into Dallas’ system with his rim-running, shot-blocking, and physical presence in the paint. Gafford will likely share the center duties with Lively in a platoon that keeps both fresh while maintaining interior toughness. The ability to have two reliable rim protectors gives Kidd more tactical options defensively, especially against bigger lineups in the Western Conference.
Rounding out the core group is Olivier-Maxence Prosper, a young forward who continues to flash defensive potential and athleticism. Though raw offensively, Prosper’s length and energy make him a valuable piece for future development and spot minutes when matchups call for mobility and defense. He’s another sign that the Mavericks are thinking long-term, building not just for now but for sustainable contention in the years ahead.
Also on the roster is Jaden Hardy, the explosive guard who showed glimpses of brilliance in limited minutes last season. Hardy’s quickness, confidence, and scoring instinct make him an intriguing option as a bench spark plug. His development will be one to watch closely this season, especially if he can evolve into a more consistent decision-maker and defender. If he takes another step, Dallas will have yet another offensive weapon at its disposal.
New additions on the margins include veteran wing additions who bring leadership and locker room experience. While not all offseason signings will be everyday contributors, they each serve a purpose—whether it’s helping with matchups, spelling minutes, or keeping intensity high in practice. The Mavericks understand that championship teams aren’t just built with stars; they’re built with layers, experience, and readiness.
Head coach Jason Kidd now faces the most talented and balanced roster of his tenure. His leadership will be under the microscope, as expectations have risen sharply in Dallas. No longer just a playoff hopeful, this team is expected to contend deep into the postseason. Kidd’s job is to manage egos, deploy smart rotations, and instill a defensive mindset that’s been the Achilles heel of past Mavericks squads. The front office has armed him with the tools—now it’s about execution.
The Western Conference, as always, will be brutal. From defending champions to rising powers, every night will demand focus and chemistry. But Dallas is built differently this season. The roster boasts a rare mix of star power, youth, length, and scoring depth. They’ve retained their identity while also adding pieces that address previous weaknesses. The addition of Cam Thomas gives them another scorer who can get his own shot. The maturation of Green, Hardy, and Lively adds excitement and sustainability. The presence of veterans like Kyrie, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Gafford brings calm in high-stakes moments.
And then there’s Luka—who will again be the face of everything. As he enters his peak years, the franchise knows this is the time to strike. They’ve pushed the chips in. The roster speaks to that urgency. Whether they can weather the grind of the season, stay healthy, and hit their stride when it counts remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the 2025-26 Dallas Mavericks aren’t sneaking up on anyone. They’re contenders. Fully formed, fully focused, and fully expected to compete with the best.
In an era of shifting allegiances and dramatic roster upheaval, the Mavericks have built patiently yet purposefully around their generational star. This roster—unlike previous iterations—is deep, dynamic, and dangerous. While questions always remain—about chemistry, health, and consistency—this team enters the new season not just with hope, but with legitimate expectations.
The 2025-26 season won’t be easy. But Dallas isn’t looking for easy. They’re looking for banners. With a roster this complete and a superstar this special, they may be closer than ever.
