Mavericks Bench D’Angelo Russell Despite Fan Calls for Point Guard Role

The Dallas Mavericks are starting the 2025-26 NBA season with Cooper Flagg as their starting point guard, a move that has been met with skepticism by fans who prefer D'Angelo Russell in that role. Coach Jason Kidd has experimented with lineups and decided to have Russell come off the bench, emphasizing that Russell's role is simply to contribute to winning, without labeling him as a starter or sixth man. Despite a rough season opener where Russell scored six points in 15 minutes, there remains hope he will see increased playing time in the coming games. Mavericks fans generally believe the team has potential to be contenders, though opinions differ on the best use of players like Russell and Flagg. Meanwhile, national polls predict teams like the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder to win their conferences, with the Mavericks also receiving some support from fans. This season's dynamics highlight the Mavericks' strategy of developing young talent while balancing veteran contributions.