MAVS NEWS: Luka Wins Community Cares Award! | DLive's Mom Passes Away

[Mapka]

I feel like it was just to be expected that Hardy was going to be buried on the bench after the Curry signing and THJ sticking around.
And to go even further, I think it's more likely that Exum beats out Curry for a rotation spot before Hardy would. He's buried deep unless we get a THJ trade

I think that's on Hardy for sure.
He will get some minutes and if he sticks to his role and keeps up the energy on defense he will get enough to gain experience.

[Hooper21]

Cuban flapping his yap again:

https://sports.yahoo.com/mark-cuban-said...15744.html

[Chicagojk]

I feel like it was just to be expected that Hardy was going to be buried on the bench after the Curry signing and THJ sticking around.
And to go even further, I think it's more likely that Exum beats out Curry for a rotation spot before Hardy would. He's buried deep unless we get a THJ trade

Yeah, it is going to be tough for him.  It is a shame though.  I thought he showed enough last year to get consistent minutes.  Maybe that still happens, but I feel early in the season Kidd is going to go with the veterans in Hardaway and Curry.   I hope it is a fair competition if that is the case.  Lets see if Hardy can beat them out for minutes.

[ItsGoTime]

Cuban flapping his yap again:

https://sports.yahoo.com/mark-cuban-said...15744.html

Ya, there are so many things that that dude says that are so easy to see through. Can he not just understand that he is the luckiest lottery winner in the world and shut his mouth? He is an eye roll machine.

[StrandedOnBeauboisHill]

https://x.com/kt_3410/status/1707787632145522846?s=46

Crazy how bad we are at this. Retroplex was a step in the right direction and now we get some steps backwards.

[surfpuckmd]

“Very depressing”? 

Dang. I somehow thought the goal was to win.

…so you’re saying that, if Hardy is glued to the bench, but the Mavs are winning most of their games, you’ll be pouting?

I'll ignore your condescension and reply as if you were interested in a reasonable discussion.  

By the end of last season, Jaden Hardy was a better basketball player than Seth Curry.  They are both poor defensively but Jaden should improve with experience while Curry will only worsen with age.  Curry is obviously an elite 3-point specialist but Hardy also hit over 40% from 3 last season.  Hardy can actually take the ball to the basket, finish at the rim and draw fouls.   Hardy showed a lot of offensive skill and potential at the end of last season.  Seth was once a good player but advanced metrics show a substantial decline last season.  There isn't a lot of precedent to unathletic, undersized NBA specialists bouncing back at 33 years old.  If you're aware of some previous cases, present your examples.  

Jaden Hardy is likely to improve with experience.  Seth Curry will not.  I think the organization brought Curry in because they wanted another high-character professional on the roster.  I think he's also solid injury insurance should some of our better guards miss time.  He's a good 12th man.  

Playing Curry over Hardy though is a losing move both for this coming season and for the Maverick's future.  A reasonable coach would understand this.  I am not sure that Jason Kidd is a reasonable coach.  I think he made a lot of bad decisions last season.  I also expect he's probably worried about his job security.  I can imagine him choosing the veteran because Curry will probably make less mistakes on the court than Hardy.   Again, I think that would be a big mistake.  

You're welcome to make an argument as to why Seth Curry should play over Jaden Hardy. That might be really interesting.  What is not interesting is condescension on a message board.  I think you can be better than that.  Unless, of course, you can't.

[DanSchwartzgan]

The Kyrie presser today was really interesting in the sense of him saying he had worked with the front office a little bit this offseason but the most interesting part was him hinting at upcoming free agents...He has a history of recruiting stars that would make Chandler Parsons blush.

Also interesting that he also mentioned Seth running the second unit.  I really am starting to get a bad feeling for those who want to see Hardy get big minutes this season.

I'd highly recommend listening to his media session.  Well worth the 20 minute investment.  It was so refreshing to hear an athlete being so real and not just giving well coached robotic answers.  I can see why teammates seem to love him.  

On the recruiting front, Claxton certainly comes to mind.  Kyrie was in Boston when Robert Williams was a rookie.  I could see something with either of them.  Expiring Holmes plus a pick as a S&T for Claxton this summer (he's unrestricted).  Or something where Dallas gets in the middle of a Jrue to Boston deal as Williams isn't someone Portland would value.  You could to Holmes + 2027 which adds a pick to Portland's haul for Dame.   I'm envisioning Williams and Lively splitting the 48 minutes as neither is probably able to handle a full 30+ minute load.

It makes sense to me that it is Curry's job to lose 'leading' the second unit.  He played a 20 minute a game role in the league last season with some of those being minutes he played as the only PG (thought not many).  The question as relates to him is whether it stays that way all season.  Exum and Hardy will both be nipping at his heels and when Curry suffers his inevitable injury, he may not get his spot back.

As I've thought about and listened to the thoughts of others I don't see both Rookies starting.  I love OMax, but his best position is probably not guarding smaller point of attack guards (and neither is GWill's).  Josh is the better candidate there.  I also think OMax will get a better opportunity to develop his offensive game off the bench. He showed some impressive moves to the basket this summer that I'd like to see developed. Lively getting the "Dwight Role" with the starters until he's ready for expanded minutes makes more sense to me.  So, my best guess is:

Starters - Two scoring savants, three plus defenders and fantastic outside shooting
Lively
Williams
Luka
Green
Irving

Bench - Two plus defenders (OMax/Maxi), vertical gravity (Powell) and good outside shooting
Powell
Maxi
OMax
THJ
Curry

I reserve the right to change my mind once I see the preseason games.  One thing I think they did very well is set up the third unit in such a way as they can handle injuries well.  Holmes, Morris, DJJ, Hardy and Exum can fill in well as needed in very defined roles.

[SleepingHero]

Going to try and post a bunch of tweets so people can stay in the loop.

Kyrie Irving's Interview Highlights:

At his first press conference of the season, Kyrie Irving says he wishes Dallas would have had a shot at drafting him in 2011 and insists he and Luka Dončić can flourish as a duo, saying: "We're both killers on the court. Everybody knows it."

“Luka already makes the game look easier here in the states. When he plays for Slovenia, he goes Super Saiyan, he goes ballistic, you can see the passion of that group. …I was texting him reminding him that me and Dirk have World Cup MVPs, just giving him motivation.” - Kyrie’s thoughts on Luka’s international play this summer

“I’m excited, he’s an incredible shooter and leader to have in the locker room. It’s gonna be interesting to see him out there with myself and Luka, and the second unit at times. He has a great work ethic.” - Kyrie on reuniting with Seth Curry

“I wish I would’ve gotten drafted by Dallas initially, obviously they weren’t in that position at the time.” - Kyrie speaking about the positive organizational culture he’s experienced so far with Dallas

“I think I’m more or less excited about the off the court aspect of him teaching me to be a better man, it goes a long way for young guys like me. He brings a natural ease… he’s brutally honest.” - Kyrie on his relationship with Jason Kidd

https://twitter.com/townbrad/status/1707...17827?s=20 
https://twitter.com/townbrad/status/1707...13629?s=20 - Videoes on why Kyrie chose to resign in Dallas.

“Grant was one of those guys I mentioned. He was a big piece in those Boston series when I was playing with Brooklyn.” - Kyrie on giving input towards the Grant Williams acquisition

“I’m happy about the moves, no hard criticism from me. They asked me what I thought through the summertime, they gauged who I wanted to play with. …Who throughout this free agency class and the next free agency class I wanted to play with.” - Kyrie on the offseason retooling

Kyrie Irving talked about last season and how it takes patience to build a great team.
He also mentioned it’s nice the front office inquires his thoughts on roster, they looked at free agents available this offseason and the next couple classes coming up. He had a big smile. 


Jason Kidd's Interview Highlights:

“I’d say everyone. Everyone’s done their part from the rookies to our two stars, and everyone in between.” - Jason Kidd on who’s caught his eye this summer

We (historically) tend to put the young guys with the stars to see who they handle the situation. With those two (rookies), they’ve put in the work.” - Kidd on what he’s seen with the rookies

“I think we’re lucky to have Grant. To have that voice, he’s a winner. That voice is something we haven’t had, from player-to-player to coach; we’re very lucky to have him.” - Kidd’s thoughts on Grant Williams

“I think the biggest one is health. We want to be healthy going into the 25th.” - Jason Kidd’s main goal leading up to the season’s start

“The big question is how we can play without those two. I think we were 1-10 without them last season… we can’t just wait for them to bail us out, we need to have the locker room confident to win without them.” - another goal of Jason Kidd’s

“He [Hardy] had an incredible season for us last year, I think with the talent around us this year… I think he’s gonna thrive. We all know he can score, so now it’s time to see if he can execute.” - Kidd’s thoughts on Jaden Hardy

“At the top. Best scoring combo in the league. On defense? We’ll take #2 or #3, we don’t need to be #1.” - Jason Kidd on how the Luka/Kyrie duo stacks up against other star combos in the league (i.e. Giannis/Dame)

"Everybody's excited, everybody's a winner right now. No one is talking about the minutes that they're not playing or the shots that they're not getting, so everybody's in a good mood."- Jason Kidd 

Grant William's Interview Highlights:

Grant Williams was asked what Luka’s yearbook superlative would be (ie best dressed, class clown)
He answered: “Most likely to pull the fire alarm at school.”

Grant Williams describes how he can be a vocal leader despite being new to the Mavs. “I’m a goofball at heart,” but when it’s time to be serious it’s time to be serious. (https://twitter.com/townbrad/status/1707...60439?s=20)

Grant was asked about his relationship with Kyrie, “Kyrie did a phenomenal job communicating with me about what my role would be. He’s been a phenomenal teammate.”

[StrandedOnBeauboisHill]

I love OMax, but his best position is probably not guarding smaller point of attack guards (and neither is GWill's).  Josh is the better candidate there.

This is what I keep thinking as well although we did use Dorian as a POA defender (at times) before Bullock came along because he was kind of all we had so I don't necessarily think using OMax that way is completely out of the question given that they seem like very similar body types/defenders.

I do tend to think it's just Kidd's version of putting Green through some adversity and seeing what happens.  I'm not necessarily the biggest fan of messing with players heads through the media but it does seem to be a trend.

The Claxton thought is really interesting.  I am glad that we get to see Lively progress for a full season before making decisions around free agency needs because who knows, maybe Lively shows that center is one of our furthest needs long term pretty quickly.

[OBX Maverick]

https://x.com/kt_3410/status/1707787632145522846?s=46

Crazy how bad we are at this. Retroplex was a step in the right direction and now we get some steps backwards.

I actually just read that the Mavs were going with these this season……

   

[SleepingHero]

Maxi's Interview highlights:
“We want to make up for what happened last year.” - Maxi Kleber

“They have a bright future ahead.” - Maxi Kleber on the rookies
He also complimented their ability to listen and learn.

Seth's interview highlights:

“I can still make shots and Luka can still pass.” Seth Curry on his pre-existing chemistry with Luka

“It’s great, we’ve been on a team together twice but we haven’t played together much. We’ve been on the floor, it’s been a smooth fit. He’s another unselfish guy, I feel very comfortable sharing the floor with Kyrie.” - Seth Curry on reuniting with Kyrie Irving

“You can’t take it personal. The biggest thing for me is trying to leave a mark where I left. Just being a professional, doing things the right way, leaving on the right terms, it says a lot.” - Seth Curry on dealing with constant team movement through his career

Seth Curry says he kept his home in Dallas after he was traded away last time, so the transition will be easier on everyone

When asked on his comments following his last departure from Dallas, Seth Curry said: “Mark had admitted a mistake to me personally, a little before that. But it’s never personal, you kinda use that as motivation to play your best performance. Mark knows he made a mistake still.”

Josh Green interview highlights:

Regarding contract extension talks, Josh Green stated he’s leaving that to his agents while he focuses on team activities

“I think we’re gonna have a great defensive scheme. For us, just making sure I’m paying attention to every detail and being a vocal leader.” - Josh Green on defensive improvements he and the team are looking to make

“Roles change throughout every single game, especially with the way our team is. I give 110% every single game, and never count myself out.” - Josh Green’s response on if he was consistent last season

Josh Green reiterated his desire to stay and win in Dallas, and maintained optimistic about the process

“Grant’s been amazing, it’s always nice to be around someone who’s a great guy. He’s a leader, he’s vocal, talks a lot, maybe too much. He’s gonna be big for our team.” - Josh Green’s thoughts on Grant Williams


Dwight Powell interview highlights:

When asked for his thoughts on the new additions, Dwight Powell said there’s “good, healthy, positive energy.

“Those young guys rejuvenating some of that energy in the building is great.” - Dwight Powell

“I love Dallas, that’s clear. Love this organization and this city, the legacy and this team right now. It’s a blessing to have the opportunity to come back.” - Dwight Powell

“Very proud to say I played with him and the legacy he’s left… it’s something I don’t take lightly.” - Dwight Powell on getting the chance to play with Dirk Nowitzki

“Always be ready. I think one of the things Luka’s a master at is deception. So that ball’s gonna come to you right on time, right on target, even when you think it’s not possible.” - Dwight Powell’s advice to Dereck Lively on playing with Luka

When asked who has the better handles between Kyrie and God Shammgod, Jaden Hardy said: “I don’t know, they both got that ball on a string… I’d probably give it to Kyrie, though.”

Not surprisingly, a selfless answer from Dwight Powell when asked how he balances mentoring Dereck Lively II while competing with him for minutes. https://twitter.com/townbrad/status/1707...89237?s=20

Jaden Hardy interview highlights:

When asked who has the better handles between Kyrie and God Shammgod, Jaden Hardy said: “I don’t know, they both got that ball on a string… I’d probably give it to Kyrie, though.”

“Since Kyrie’s been here, he’s always been helpful to me. He’s like an open book, willing to pass down information. He wants to help the younger guys.” - Hardy on Kyrie’s impact

When asked if he had advice for the rookies, Jaden Hardy stressed that the season is like a marathon and to not get discouraged if there’s not an early opportunity for minutes

“You guys know I can score. Being able to playmake and get my teammates involved. Defending without fouling.” - Hardy on improvements he’s looking to make this season

Richaun Holmes interview highlights:

“Very excited, Dallas fans have been showing me love on social media for a few years now.” - Richaun Holmes’ feelings on his move to Dallas

“I think for me, it was Dirk. Growing up, watching him play the game, a seven foot big with a jump shot.” - Richaun Holmes on factors that piqued his interest in the Mavs from years past

“In Philly they told me if I was gonna extend my career, I’d have to do something besides just dunk the ball. They pushed me to develop something.” - Richaun Holmes on the development of his short-range push shot

“Oh, man. When I say bouncy, I don’t think that’s even the way to describe it. …I played with Tyson in Phoenix, and he looks so much like him.” - Holmes’ input on Dereck Lively

“To compete for a championship, definitely. Two superstars, that’s a goal, that’s attainable. But individually, I worked my butt off to get into shape and get on the court and show what I got… healthwise I’m in the best shape in years.” - Holmes’ goals for the season

When asked on what he can show off in Dallas that he didn’t get to show in Sacramento towards the end of his tenure there, Richaun Holmes noted his pick-and-roll offense and rebounding ability

[StrandedOnBeauboisHill]

I actually just read that the Mavs were going with these this season……

I would honestly buy these over the ones leaked just for the sheer hilarity of it.

[SleepingHero]

Dante Exum's interview highlights:

“There were a few teams that were interested. I think the Mavs provided a unique opportunity, where my strong suits are - pushing the ball and being fast, that’s kinda why I liked the Mavs.” - Dante Exum’s thoughts on coming to Dallas

“It’s great. Just seeing his growth as a player when I was watching him on the Mavs and the Australian team, what he brought us there. The steps he takes to be a professional, it’s amazing to see.” - Exum’s thoughts on Josh Green

“For me, I’ve always tried to be an energy guy. I like to push the ball and play fast, open court transition, that’s where I’m trying to excel. I think my spot shot is the best it’s been in my career.” - Exum on what he hopes to bring to the Mavs

“I like the challenge, I’ve never backed down from a challenge. When I first came to the league, Dennis Lindsey, who’s with the Mavs now, said ‘you’re a horrible defender’. I took that to heart.” - Exum on his confidence in his defensive abilities

Light moment from Exum: “I’ve actually been wondering, maybe you can help me: What is MFFL?”

Dereck Lively's interview highlights:

“Just trying to improve however you can [film, weight room, etc.], 1% every day.” - Dereck Lively on how he’s grown over the last 99 days since he was drafted

“He an amazing player, person, character. He’s someone I’ve already learned so much from, he always has something to say. Been able to tell me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear.” - Dereck Lively on Tyson Chandler’s influence

“It was the first day he came back I think we started to play a little 5-on-5, from then on I’ve been on his team. Seems like he likes what I do, I make his job easier.” - Lively on his connection with Luka

As far as active players go, Dereck Lively specifically mentioned Dwight Powell, Kyrie, and Luka as people who he consults for adjustments

“I feel like me and O fit in very well, we complement their flashy game with our dirty work game.” - Dereck Lively on his and Olivier Maxence-Prosper’s fit with the team

Dereck Lively II said the starting Center spot is something he wants to earn and he’s just focused on winning everyday.

Lively noted that he’s bulked up to 240 lbs lately with his diet plan

“For me, it helps me understand the game when I talk out loud. It helps me and my teammates whenever I’m [vocal]. …You guys will probably hear my voice when you’re on the sideline.” - Lively on his vocal disposition

“He’s on my ass about my bullshit and I’m on his ass about his bullshit.” - Lively on his bond with O-Max

“He’s definitely said that many times, I’m just grateful. At first I was never really familiar with Tyson’s game until I did my research and was like, wow, we do play the same.” - Lively’s take on the noted similarities with Tyson Chandler

Dereck Lively ended his press time asking @espn_macmahon what he ate for breakfast today

Omax interview highlights:

“How hard I play, my energy, how I defend. I can complement Luka and Kyrie on offense, knock down open shots and draw fouls.” - O-Max on how he can immediately make an impact

“I feel like summer league was big, 99 days ago feels just like yesterday to me.” - O-Max on how he’s developed since getting drafting

“Just understanding what my role’s gonna be like and being able to knock down open shots. Slowing down and not rushing so much on the court. Knowing defensive concepts. Keep being myself, make quicker decisions on offense.” - O-Max on what he’s done to improve since summer league

[Jym]

THJ's arms looking surprisingly beefy

[OBX Maverick]

I would honestly buy these over the ones leaked just for the sheer hilarity of it.

The irony of it, and I assume everyone remembers, is that they are reminiscent of the garbage bag unis of 2003!  But even worse, they look like a youth travel team jersey. How does someone get paid to come up with this?

[StrandedOnBeauboisHill]

Hardaway already mentioning that Kidd didn't tell him about the 6th man of the year stuff yet...

[Jym]

Hardaway already mentioning that Kidd didn't tell him about the 6th man of the year stuff yet...

yeah the vibes were certainly off at the end of that presser

[Scott41theMavs]

SH, thanks so much for your hard work posting the media day quotes. Good reading, and much appreciated!

[Chicagojk]

Playing time should be competitive. It should be earned. This is the case mostly. But I thin communication from the coach is really important. It got off to a terrible Start last year. I have no insight on this comment but certainly not what I want to hear. Probably nothing but my ears perk up after last years gaffes.

https://x.com/townbrad/status/1707811965848928701?s=46&t=iwQP5yZoJF3Ulzfb9MH7Cg

[SamStetz]

Lots of media day quotes embedded and easy to access on the discord!

https://discord.gg/GDwGzq3B