Mavericks Tipoff Their Preseason Against the Defending Champs: What Can Fans Expect?
The Dallas Mavericks open their 2025 preseason tomorrow against the defending champion, the Oklahoma City Thunder. This marks the beginning of a new era in Dallas and will serve as their first live test against one of the league’s top teams. This game will be a great matchup to see where both teams are going into the season. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. EST at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. This will be the first NBA action at the arena since its opening in 2019.
In the last 10 games versus Oklahoma City, the Mavs have a 7-3 record. Last season in particular, Dallas beat the Thunder 3-1 in the regular season. This head-to-head success adds a bit of confidence but also raises expectations for the franchise. How will the retooled Mavs, with new faces and a shifting identity, stack up this time?
What to Watch for
Cooper Flagg’s First NBA Action
Rookie forward Cooper Flagg will have his much-anticipated preseason debut, giving fans an early look at the number one overall pick. Known for his versatility and competitiveness, Flagg will have a chance to show how his all-around game translates to the professional level against the best team from last year. While expectations should be relaxed, Flagg’s efforts and composure could set the tone for his role moving forward. With a stacked frontcourt, these minutes may have more weight than we know.
Early Rotation Cues
Preseason games are often about experimentation, and head coach Jason Kidd will have a chance to test various lineup combinations. Expect a mix of veterans and rookies as the Mavericks aim to find balance and rhythm early. Minutes for players like P.J. Washington, Max Christie, and Jaden Hardy will reveal how deep the team truly is. The focus will be on communication, energy, and which groups find early chemistry on both ends of the floor.
Testing Against the Standard
Facing the defending champion Thunder provides Dallas with an early measuring stick. Oklahoma City’s young core, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, plays with elite pace and precision. Matching their tempo and execution will be an immediate test for the Mavericks’ retooled lineup. Win or lose, this matchup offers Dallas valuable insight into how close they are to contending with the best of the West.
Thunder’s Championship Follow-Up
For the Thunder, this game marks the start of a new chapter as they transition from hunters to the hunted. The franchise returns its championship core largely intact, but the focus will be on how they handle the pressure of defending their title. Preseason is also a time for head coach Mark Daigneault to evaluate depth and tune roles around his established stars. Even in a tune-up setting, OKC’s chemistry and composure will show whether their offseason focus on continuity will pay off.
After their matchup against the Thunder, Dallas returns home to face the Charlotte Hornets on October 11th. These early games will serve as valuable opportunities for the team to establish rhythm, evaluate depth, and prepare for the regular season grind. For both the Mavericks and Thunder, the preseason isn’t about wins or losses. It's about setting the foundation for another run in the Western Conference.
