Testing the Rotations: Mavs Continue Preseason vs. Charlotte
The Dallas Mavericks return to action tomorrow night for their second preseason matchup, hosting the Charlotte Hornets at the American Airlines Center. After Monday’s promising win over the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, the Mavs will use this game to continue tuning rotations and evaluating depth pieces ahead of the regular season. For Dallas, it’s not about the score, rather the rhythm and chemistry. These games are important to see who may end up in coach Jason Kidd’s final lineup plans.
Every variable is being tested in these games. With Luka Dončić’s departure marking the start of a new era, coach Kidd and his staff are searching for a lineup identity that can balance veteran leadership with developing talent. Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell and Cooper Flagg headline that process as the new formula takes shape. This is being built on versatility, defense and internal competition. This matchup against Charlotte will offer another glimpse into that process. Like Oklahoma City, the Hornets have a young team full of energy. Their footing is still yet to be found with their star guard, LaMelo Ball, undergoing two surgeries within the past six months. This leaves them in a similar stage of experimentation to Dallas. Both teams are eager to see how their pieces mesh. The Hornets look to gain some momentum, however, with their 0-2 record in preseason thus far. It’s an early look at two teams trying to define themselves before the games start to count.
Frontcourt Chemistry
Anthony Davis’ preseason minutes have already shown flashes of a developing partnership with third-year center Dereck Lively II. Kidd will continue to test this duo in how they share defensive responsibilities around the rim and pick-and-roll coverages. Both bring shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess, but spacing needs improvement. This offseason Lively II grew two inches, now standing at seven-foot-three.
Guard Rotation Battles
Dallas’ backcourt remains fluid beyond D’Angelo Russell, and this game will help clarify roles. With Kyrie Irving out for a majority of the season, rookie Miles Kelly, Max Christie and veteran Danté Exum are all competing for opportunities behind Russell. Kidd has emphasized decision-making in the offense for guards. With limited preseason dates, every stretch of minutes matters for those hoping to carve out a steady place in the guard rotation.
Flagg’s Progress
The first-overall pick has shown poise, athleticism and feel for the game thus far. Against the Thunder, Flagg posted 10 points, six rebounds and three assists along with one block. His two-way game was on showcase with seamless transitions guarding multiple positions. Saturday’s game will give him more opportunity to adjust to the NBA physicality and speed, potentially forcing him into a more prominent role.
Charlotte’s Energy Test
Even with Ball limited, the Hornets have key pieces in forwards Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges who can punish teams that lose defensive focus. This matchup will feature familiar faces to the Mavs in veteran Spencer Dinwiddie and Josh Green. Expect the Hornets to push tempo early and try to attack before Dallas’ defense gets set. Their style will challenge the Mavericks’ transition communication and help Kidd evaluate which lineups can keep pace.
Preseason games may not carry weight in the standings, but they play a critical role in shaping identity. For the Mavs, each exhibition serves as another opportunity to define rotations, strengthen chemistry and assess how their new stars fit within Kidd’s evolving system. For Charlotte, it’s about health, growth and developing consistency after another turbulent offseason. Friday’s meeting might not provide dramatic storylines, but it will reveal plenty about where both teams stand.
