Undrafted Free Agent Makes Strong Case for Playing Time with Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are navigating a challenging point guard situation as they enter the 2025-26 NBA season. With Kyrie Irving recovering from a torn ACL and Dante Exum facing knee soreness, the team is relying on several players, including Brandon Williams, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Ryan Nembhard, to fill the role.
Current Point Guard Roster Challenges
- Kyrie Irving: Recovering from a torn ACL with no return timetable.
- Dante Exum: Experiencing knee soreness.
- Brandon Williams: Overcame a hamstring injury but is clear for the season start.
- Jaden Hardy: Known for his inconsistent play.
- D’Angelo Russell: Coming off a disappointing season.
- Ryan Nembhard: A standout among the group, showing great potential.
Ryan Nembhard: Undrafted Free Agent Making His Case
Ryan Nembhard, an undrafted free agent on a two-way contract, has caught the attention of Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. During a media day at the American Airlines Center, Kidd praised Nembhard, indicating he could be part of the rotation due to his impressive play. Kidd stated, “Ryan could easily be in that rotation; he’s made a case for that.”
Nembhard, who led college basketball in assists last season, accumulated nearly 900 total assists over four collegiate seasons at Creighton and Gonzaga. His preseason performance demonstrated his abilities, averaging 5.0 points and 5.0 assists per game across four games.
Competition for Playing Time
As the Mavericks prepare for their matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, they may continue experimenting with Cooper Flagg at point guard. However, Nembhard’s capacity to organize the team and push the tempo has placed him firmly in contention for significant playing time.
- Cooper Flagg: Currently being tested as the point guard option.
- D’Angelo Russell: Expected to be the first guard off the bench.
- Brandon Williams: Showed promise last season with an average of 15.4 points and 4.1 assists after Irving’s injury.
Outlook for the Mavericks
As the Mavericks gear up for the season, the point guard position remains a focal point of competition. Nembhard’s performance is crucial as Dallas evaluates its rotation. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining the lineup and ensuring the team’s success.
For more updates on the Mavericks throughout the 2025-26 season, follow Emegypt.
