Latest news with #Mavericks
New York Post
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Shaq offers cruel two-word dismissal of Klay Thompson-Megan Thee Stallion relationship
Shaquille O'Neal isn't shipping the Klay Thompson-Megan Thee Stallion love story after the couple recently went public with their relationship. During Monday's installment of 'The Big Podcast with Shaq,' the retired Basketball Hall of Famer predicted that the romance between the Mavericks guard and the Grammy-winning rapper has a six-week shelf life. When his co-host Adam Lefkoe brought up the new NBA couple, O'Neal said, 'six weeks.' Advertisement 4 Shaq weighs in on Klay Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion's romance during the latest installment of his podcast. YouTube/The Big Podcast with Shaq O'Neal repeated it a few times and shook his head 'no' when asked by co-host Adam Lefkoe if he believed the relationship would survive into the fall. Mike Tyson, who was a guest on the podcast, asked, 'Who's Klay Thompson?' which drew laughter from the live audience laugh. Advertisement O'Neal didn't elaborate further. Thompson, 35, and Megan, 30, went public with their new relationship earlier this month. The 'Hiss' rapper posted a carousel of bikini snapshots as Thompson was seen lounging by the pool in the background during their recent vacation. 4 Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson making their red carpet debut at Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala on July 16, 2025 in New York City. GC Images Advertisement 4 Megan Thee Stallion appeared to include Mavericks guard Klay Thompson in the background of her bikini photo shoot on Instagram on July 9, 2025. Instagram/Megan Thee Stallion After that, the couple wasn't shy about flaunting PDA together on multiple occasions, including on the red carpet and at the gym. Meg and Thompson made their red carpet debut at Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala in New York City on Wednesday. 4 Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson making their red carpet debut at Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala on July 16, 2025 in New York City. Johns PKI / Advertisement The rapper also shared a video of them working out together and recently gushed that he's the nicest man she's ever dated. Meg, who is a native of Houston, will likely be sitting courtside in Dallas this season. The four-time NBA champ is entering his second season with the Mavericks after winning four titles with the Warriors across 13 seasons.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Dallas Mavericks Depth Look Lethal With Cooper Flagg In Frontcourt
Dallas Mavericks Depth Look Lethal With Cooper Flagg In Frontcourt originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Dallas Mavericks have emerged as one of the teams to look out for in the upcoming season. Although their season ended in disappointment after being eliminated from the Play-In tournament, the offseason boasted a lot of promise. The 2025 NBA Draft, in particular, has effectively shifted the way other teams have perceived the Mavericks. By some unbelievable twist of fate, Dallas ended up with the first-overall pick and gained a golden opportunity to draft a franchise cornerstone. With the No. 1 pick in the draft on Wednesday night, the Mavericks fulfilled this promise by drafting Duke star Cooper Flagg, setting off a new plan in motion for the franchise. The selection of Flagg has been viewed favorably across multiple forums. Owing to his latent potential, his star power, and his overall skill, Dallas may have acquired a generational talent to lead their side to glory. As a rookie, there is only so much the Duke forward can do to transform this team. But when considering the sheer experience and potential of this roster when healthy, the Mavericks may be viewed as the underdogs in the West. With this in mind, we take a look at the Dallas Mavericks' roster for the 2025-26 season, as currently constructed. Depth Chart PG: Kyrie Irving, Spencer Dinwiddie, Jaden Hardy SG: Klay Thompson, Max Christie, Dante Exum SF: Cooper Flagg, Naji Marshall, Caleb Martin PF: Anthony Davis, PJ Washington, Oliver-Maxence Prosper C: Dereck Lively, Daniel Gafford, Dwight Powell It is important to note that Spencer Dinwiddie and Dante Exum are unrestricted free agents heading into the offseason. Losing them would deplete the Mavericks' overall backcourt strength. Meanwhile, the team has an option on whether they wish to keep Dwight Powell or not. While the frontcourt appears to be fairly solid, having backup could still be of use to Dallas, given their history of injured players. The Starting Rotation PG - Kyrie Irving SG - Klay Thompson SF - Cooper Flagg PF - Anthony Davis C - Dereck Lively On paper, the Mavericks may have one of the most formidable starting lineups in the league. With an even balance of veteran experience and young talent, Dallas would enjoy the best of both worlds while featuring a dominant frontcourt. The Mavs will feature Kyrie Irving in the starting point guard slot. Although the star will be sidelined till January, once he returns, the guard is expected to give the roster a massive boost. Before his injury last season, Irving was notching an average of 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. While it is unlikely for him to produce at the same clip after coming back from injury, his creativity on the offensive end will be immense for the team. In his absence, however, the Mavs will look to add reinforcements. In this regard, players such as D'Angelo Russell, Chris Paul, and Malcolm Brogdon have emerged as potential targets for the team. In the shooting guard slot, Dallas will continue to feature Klay Thompson. Thompson certainly isn't the player he used to be, given his drastic reduction in productivity. But his veteran experience and championship pedigree could be invaluable in aiding the development of the Mavericks' newest star. Cooper Flagg is likely to be the team's starting small forward. His ability to handle the ball, his versatility on offense, and his athleticism make him the ideal fit for the role. Additionally, after factoring in his averages of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game from last season, it is evident that he is flexible enough to adapt to the system or become its focal point. Paired with him in the frontcourt, the Mavericks are likely to feature the big man duo of Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively in their starting rotation. The presence of two defensive stalwarts provides the team with enough rim protection. With additional considerations being made for Davis' offensive output of 24.7 points and 11.6 rebounds per game, Dallas possesses enough scoring options in each position. Barring injuries, the starting lineup is fundamentally sound. With a championship pedigree also in place, Flagg may find himself in the ideal environment to cultivate his talents. The Bench As impressive as the Mavs' potential starting lineup can be, their bench also appears to hold strong. The point guard position is the only one where the team may be a little short-staffed. With Dinwiddie becoming an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, the team only has Jaden Hardy to take the starting spot in the absence of Irving. The shooting guard position has more balance. Max Christie showed huge signs of growth as a two-way player last season, recording averages of 11.2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. The Mavericks are likely to give the guard more minutes as he finds his footing in the new season. In the small forward slot, Naji Marshall and Caleb Martin remain reliable options. Marshall was one of the team's most vital players when the team hit a rough patch. His two-way ability has been critical in dictating game flow. Similarly, Martin's effort on both ends of the floor makes for a valuable contribution as well. Following Davis, the Mavericks are likely to give more playing time to PJ Washington, who has become a crucial part of the team's rotation. Last season, Washington shone, averaging 14.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Washington's rebounding and his ability to stretch the floor make him invaluable in Dallas' schemes. Similarly, the return of Daniel Gafford will also be a massive boost to the team, completing their big man rotation. The plan of action for the Mavs remains to add reinforcement, particularly in the backcourt. With several trade rumors driving traffic, Dallas would do well to ensure a healthy roster to start the story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 26, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Kyrie Irving Hints At Delayed Comeback From ACL Injury, Says He Wants To Be ‘150,000%' Ready
Kyrie Irving Hints At Delayed Comeback From ACL Injury, Says He Wants To Be '150,000%' Ready originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving offered fans a candid update on his injury rehab during a recent Twitch stream, and the message was clear, don't expect him back too soon. The 32-year-old guard, who suffered a torn ACL in March, acknowledged that his return timeline remains uncertain, as he prioritizes full recovery over rushing back. "Um, don't hold your breath on that," Kyrie said when asked about a potential return date. "It doesn't mean that I won't be back, I don't want to make any predictions on when I'm going to be back. I just want to be back a hundred fifty thousand percent better." "So I'm taking my time right now to really get healthy. I'm taking my time to really get my body right, other parts or portions of my body right and really just enjoy this recovery process, man. It's not pretty." "Yes, it is a beautiful struggle, but I go through kind of the mental roller coaster ride, you know, every day, just want to be back out there." Irving, who was averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game before the season-ending injury, emphasized that the recovery process is not just physical, but deeply mental as well. While initial reports from NBA insider Shams Charania suggested that the Mavericks were optimistic about Kyrie returning by January 2026, Irving's latest comments suggest he may take even longer, ensuring that he is not just ready but fully restored. The Mavericks, however, are positioned better than most to survive his absence. After failing to reach the NBA playoffs, Dallas was gifted an unexpected lifeline: the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, a 1.8% lottery miracle that landed them phenom Cooper Flagg. Adding Flagg to a team already headlined by Anthony Davis, PJ Washington, and Klay Thompson has reinvigorated their title hopes. Anthony Davis is expected to return at full strength next season, and with Daniel Gafford re-signed, the Mavericks have solidified their frontcourt depth. Dallas also secured insurance at the point guard position, signing D'Angelo Russell, a move designed to keep the offense humming while Kyrie recovers. Russell's experience and scoring prowess should help stabilize the backcourt rotation until Kyrie is ready to return. Irving, known for his on-court artistry and off-court introspection, remains a pivotal part of Dallas' long-term aspirations. Adding Flagg's athleticism, Thompson's shooting, and a rejuvenated Anthony Davis gives the Mavericks a dynamic core that could contend deep into the playoffs — if Kyrie comes back at his stated goal of '150,000%.' The Mavericks aren't rushing him, and neither is Kyrie. In a league filled with comebacks gone wrong, Irving is choosing patience. And if his words are any indication, when he does return, it'll be on his terms, healthy, whole, and ready to chase a championship with a stacked Dallas story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Newsweek
a day ago
- Sport
- Newsweek
LeBron James Next Team Odds: Lakers Clear Favorites, But Odds Shifting
At DraftKings, the Lakers remain the betting favorites to keep LeBron James through at least the start of the upcoming season, but the Mavericks and Cavaliers are both now listed at 6-to-1 or shorter. At DraftKings, the Lakers remain the betting favorites to keep LeBron James through at least the start of the upcoming season, but the Mavericks and Cavaliers are both now listed at 6-to-1 or shorter. Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. There has not been much in the way of news, per se, from either the Lakers or LeBron since he opted in to his contract for 2025-26 in a move that sparked speculation about where he'll finish his career. The biggest move the Lakers made in the last 48 hours was their signing of veteran guard Marcus Smart to a two-year deal. With Smart, forward Jake LaRavia and center Deandre Ayton now in the fold, the Lakers have addressed a few of their main weaknesses from a year ago. At the moment, the upcoming season still marks the final year that James will be on L.A.'s books. James, however, hardly squashed trade rumors with his response when asked by ESPN's Dave McMenamin about his future during a Summer League game on July 12. With LeBron James at the Lakers game tonight, I asked him if he would like to speak to me about his future with the franchise. 'I ain't got nothing to talk about,' he said. My report for ESPN from Las Vegas. — Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 13, 2025 That comment did not result in any substantial odds movement last weekend. There has been substantial recent movement in DraftKings' "LeBron James Next Team" market over the last few days, though, as we'll detail below. NEWSWEEK SPORTS BETTING 📩 NOW LIVE: In our new newsletter, Newsweek Sports Betting Editor Tyler Everett delivers his weekly takes on what to bet on during the upcoming weekend -- and why -- ➡️ to your inbox every Friday. If you're enjoying our sports betting content, here's your chance to get all of our latest analysis and picks in your inbox every Friday morning. SIGN UP NOW LeBron James Next Team Odds At DraftKings The odds below come from DraftKings (as of July 21). In addition to each team's betting odds, we're also listing the implied probability that those odds carry. And for reference, this table also notes what each of these teams' odds were on July 4. Fine print, from DK: "First Regular Season minute played to be for which NBA team? [2025-26 only]" Current DK odds (implied probability %) July 4 DK odds, implied probability Lakers -340 (77.3) -1000 (90.9) Mavericks +300 (25) +600 (14.3) Cavaliers +600 (14.3) +1000 (9.1) Heat +1500 (6.3) longer than +5000* Knicks +2000 (4.8) +3000 (3.2) Clippers +2000 (4.8) +3500 (2.8) *The Heat were longer than 50-to-1 when we broke down this market on July 4, so we didn't list their exact odds. LeBron James Next Team Analysis, Prediction Before we go any further, keep in mind that for a bet on any team besides the Lakers to cash, a deal for LeBron would have to happen before the 2025-26 season begins in October. I still don't think there's a realistic chance of James being dealt before the season, but the Lakers now being listed at -340 should not be ignored, especially given where their odds were when this market opened. Now, let's briefly break down whether -- and how -- the Mavericks, Cavs, Heat, Knicks and Clippers could make a deal for LeBron. Could Dallas (+300) or Cleveland (+600) Land LeBron James? If Dallas were to offer No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, the Lakers would certainly be all ears. We shouldn't necessarily rule out anything where Nico Harrison is involved, but swapping a 40-year-old for a young potential star like Flagg is unimaginable right now. The Cavaliers and Heat strike me as more intriguing and realistic possible James suitors due to his ties to both franchises, but let's start with Miami. The Heat don't have much in the way of proven commodities besides Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro, making them almost as unrealistic as the Mavericks. If the Cavaliers were to consider shipping out one of their 2024-25 All Stars (Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland or Evan Mobley), they could make a compelling offer -- and the chance to make noise in the injury-depleted East this year could be tempting for James. Knicks (+2000) Or Clippers (+2000) To Pull Off Shocking James Blockbuster? Let's close with the Knicks and Clippers. New York will always be mentioned as a contender for James because of the market, but it's hard to see Leon Rose blowing up an established roster with a real chance to win the East for a player with a year (or two at the most) left in his career. The Clippers have had a solid offseason, adding Bradley Beal, John Collins, Brook Lopez and Chris Paul to complement Kawhi Leonard, James Harden and Ivica Zubac. They are now well positioned to contend in the West (especially if Leonard can stay healthy), not send away a haul for James' final season or two. This market has been interesting to talk about during a quiet time of year for hoops fans, but that doesn't make any of these options remotely tempting (and the Lakers' deal for Smart this weekend only made a big James trade seem even less likely). If you are determined to place a bet on someone coming up with a blockbuster deal out of nowhere for James, I'd recommend looking at the Cavaliers. Still, staying away from this market was the smart move in early July, and that remains true despite the recent odds movement. Newsweek may earn an affiliate commission if you sign up through the links in this article. See the sportsbook operator's terms and conditions for important details. Sports betting operators have no influence over newsroom coverage.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Luka Doncic's Recent Tearful Farewell Statement Sends Dallas Reeling: 'I Thought I'd Spend My Career Here'
Luka Doncic (Image Source - Getty Images) In a move that shook the NBA world, Luka Doncic —the heartbeat of the Dallas Mavericks—has been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers . For seven seasons, Doncic wasn't just a superstar; he was the identity of Mavericks basketball. With his dazzling playmaking, fearless clutch moments, and unmistakable swagger, the Slovenian guard became a symbol of hope and pride for Dallas. So when news of his departure broke, it wasn't just a transaction—it felt like a personal loss for an entire region. North Texas Reacts: Heartbreak and Outrage Shockwaves rippled through Dallas as fans gathered outside the American Airlines Center, many in disbelief, some openly emotional. Luka's jerseys, once a badge of honor, were modified with tape in protest. Vigils were held. Online forums flooded with fury and grief. For many Mavericks faithful, this wasn't just a star leaving—it was the crumbling of an emotional investment years in the making. - The team's front office quickly became a lightning rod for criticism. The general manager faced chants and online vitriol. - Longtime season ticket holders vowed to cut ties, feeling betrayed by what they saw as a tone-deaf and avoidable move. Luka Doncic's Goodbye: Healing Words or Salt in the Wound? Luka Dončić: Born to Compete, Destined to Dominate After making his Lakers debut, Luka Doncic addressed Mavericks fans with a heartfelt message. He reflected on his journey from Slovenia to Texas, saying, 'Seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream… I thought I'd spend my career here… The love and support you all have given me is more than I could have ever dreamed of.' While his words were filled with gratitude and sincerity, they had a dual effect—reassuring for some, heartbreaking for others. His love for Dallas only magnified the loss. - Fans were reminded of the unfulfilled dream: a championship led by Luka in Mavericks blue. - His loyalty and emotional connection to the city made his departure even harder to accept. 'Onward,' Says Luka—But Can Dallas Fans Let Go? Despite the emotional fallout, Luka Doncic urged everyone to look ahead. 'I really appreciate it … but I think we should focus on the next,' he said, praising the Lakers fans for their warm welcome while reaffirming his fondness for Dallas. Still, for many Dallas Mavericks supporters, the classy goodbye just made things worse. In a league often marred by cold, transactional moves, Luka's departure—full of grace and warmth—felt too human to process easily. Mavericks Front Office Under Fire While Luka Doncic handled the transition with humility, the Mavericks' leadership struggled to manage the optics. The trade was executed overnight, blindsiding even franchise icons like Dirk Nowitzki and Mark Cuban. Instead of clarity, fans were met with vague explanations citing culture shifts, defensive concerns, and questions about Doncic's long-term health. - Suppressing protests at games, removing critical signs, and ejecting upset fans only escalated the backlash. - Attempts to downplay Doncic's legacy or shift blame for the trade further fractured the team's relationship with its base. When the Lakers eventually visit Dallas again, it won't just be another game—it will be a reckoning. Expect a mix of applause, boos, and perhaps some tears. Some fans will wear gold under blue, torn between loyalty to the team and the player they still love. As one heartbroken supporter summed it up: 'He's going to win in LA, and we'll watch thinking, 'Man… that should've been us.'' Also read: Japanese Guard Yuki Kawamura Makes Strong Case for NBA Future with Stellar Summer League Run With the Chicago Bulls The trade may have closed a chapter, but Luka Doncic's farewell proved one thing: the bond between him and Dallas endures. Time may dull the sting, but the memories—and the heartbreak—will never fully fade. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
