D’Angelo Russell Joins Dallas Mavericks on Two-Year, $13M Deal Amid Kyrie Irving Recovery
The Dallas Mavericks have secured a temporary solution at point guard, signing veteran D’Angelo Russell to a two-year, $13 million contract, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. The deal includes a player option in the second year, giving Russell a chance to re-enter free agency next summer.
This signing helps fill the void left by Kyrie Irving, who is expected to miss significant time due to an ACL injury sustained earlier this year.
Russell’s Career Comes Full Circle
Russell, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, is now set to play for his fourth team in as many seasons:
- Started with the Lakers, then moved to the Timberwolves
- Returned to the Lakers in 2022-23
- Traded to the Brooklyn Nets last season
- Now lands with Dallas
In 2024-25, Russell posted a career-low 12.6 points and 5.1 assists per game, while shooting just 39% from the field — a reflection of his constant team changes and evolving roles.
A Smart Stopgap for the Mavericks
The Mavericks are in a transitional phase after last season’s blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. With Irving sidelined until early 2026, the team needed a proven playmaker to stabilize the backcourt.
Russell brings:
- Starting experience and playoff appearances
- Ball-handling and distribution abilities
- Low financial risk at $6.5M annually, compared to Irving’s $119 million contract
For Dallas, this move offers short-term coverage and potential upside — should Russell find rhythm in a stable system and earn a larger role.
Cap & Roster Implications
Russell’s contract is cap-friendly:
- No long-term financial commitment
- Player option offers flexibility
- Keeps Dallas under the luxury tax threshold
- Preserves trade assets and roster versatility
If rookie phenom Cooper Flagg proves NBA-ready, and Russell performs efficiently during Irving’s absence, the Mavericks could find themselves back in Western Conference contention.
A Chance at Revival for Russell
At just 29 years old, Russell’s journey through the league has been full of highs and lows. This stint in Dallas could be his chance to:
- Showcase his leadership and court vision
- Prove his value in a playoff-chasing environment
- Secure a better deal in 2026 free agency, either with the Mavericks or elsewhere
