What Makes This Year's Dallas Mavericks Offense More Unpredictable?
The 2025–26 Dallas Mavericks look like a completely different team, and that’s exactly what makes them so dangerous. For years, the Mavericks’ offense revolved around Luka Dončić, a system that produced plenty of highlights but often became predictable. This season, with stars like Cooper Flagg, Anthony Davis, joining a developing Dereck Lively II, a sharpshooter in Klay Thompson and a rejuvenated Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have redefined what their offense can be. The result? One of the most unpredictable offenses in the NBA.
The change starts with the rookie sensation, Cooper Flagg, whose all-around game could transform how Dallas attacks. Flagg’s versatility, his ability to cut, pass, and defend, adds constant movement to an offense that used to rely heavily on isolation. When the former Duke star runs a pick-and-roll with Anthony Davis, defenses face an impossible choice: collapse and leave shooters open, or play tight and risk giving up an easy finish inside. Flagg’s high IQ and Davis’ veteran savvy make every possession fluid and creative.
Then there’s Klay Thompson, the ultimate floor-spacer. Even at this stage in his career, his shooting gravity forces defenses to stay honest. His presence stretches the floor for Kyrie and Flagg to attack the middle, giving Dallas a true five-out look at times. When defenders shade toward Thompson, it opens lanes for Dereck Lively II, who has become one of the league’s most efficient rim-runners and screeners.
Speaking of Lively, his third-year leap has been a major storyline. He’s stronger, smarter, and far more patient. His chemistry with Kyrie and Thompson makes the Mavericks’ pick-and-roll game nearly unstoppable. Also, when Anthony Davis slides to the five, Dallas can play fast, switch everything, and attack mismatches from anywhere on the court.
Yet, the heartbeat of this team remains Kyrie Irving. His return will add unpredictability and flair to an already dynamic system. Irving can create something out of nothing, yet now, he doesn’t have to. With more spacing, cutting, and ball movement, Kyrie’s offensive bursts will be even more lethal because defenses can’t key in on him. This year’s Dallas Mavericks are no longer a one-man show, they’re a system built on versatility, rhythm, and chemistry. With Flagg’s creativity, Davis’ dominance, Thompson’s shooting, Lively’s growth, and Kyrie’s brilliance, the Mavericks have built an offense that keeps every defense guessing, and that’s what makes them so dangerous.
