NBA Trade Report: D’Angelo Russell agrees to two-year deal with Dallas Mavericks

Veteran guard D’Angelo Russell has reportedly agreed to a two-year, $13 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. 

The signing marks a significant backcourt addition for the Mavericks, particularly as they navigate the extended absence of All-Star Kyrie Irving due to an ACL injury.

The contract, which reportedly includes a player option for the second season, solidifies Russell’s new home in Dallas after a 2024-25 season split between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets. 

This move, finalized on Tuesday, July 1st, sees the former All-Star taking a notable pay cut from his previous earnings, but secures him a prominent role on a re-tooled Mavericks roster.

Russell’s arrival is particularly timely for the Mavericks, who will likely lean on him as their primary point guard for a significant portion of the upcoming 2025-26 season while Irving recovers. 

His ability to handle the ball, initiate offense, and provide outside shooting will be crucial for a Dallas team looking to compete in a competitive Western Conference.

The 29-year-old guard averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists across 58 games last season with the Lakers and Nets. While his three-point shooting percentage dipped to 31.4% in the most recent campaign, he boasts a career mark of 36.5% from beyond the arc, indicating his potential to be a strong perimeter threat.

D’Angelo Russell has agreed on a two-year, $13M deal with the Mavs, per @ShamsCharania

D-Lo is heading to Dallas pic.twitter.com/w4jUEEACiN

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 30, 2025

The Mavericks reportedly utilized the $5.685 million taxpayer mid-level exception to sign Russell, a cap tool made available after Irving declined his $43 million player option and subsequently re-signed with the team on a new, larger deal. 

This strategic move allows Dallas to address a critical need without significantly impacting their overall salary cap flexibility.

Russell, who was the second overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, will join a Mavericks squad that has undergone significant changes in the offseason, including the surprising trade of Luka Dončić and the acquisition of Anthony Davis. He will now be surrounded by talent like Davis, Cooper Flagg (the recently selected No. 1 overall pick), and Klay Thompson.

While Russell’s defensive limitations have been a point of discussion throughout his career, the Mavericks will likely aim to mitigate this with strong defensive presences from players like Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II. 

His veteran experience and playmaking will be vital as the team strives to build chemistry and compete for a playoff spot in the wake of their substantial roster overhaul.

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