‘Always Impact Winning’: D’Angelo Russell Ready To Impact Winning In Any Role As Dallas Mavericks Open Season

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'Always Impact Winning': D’Angelo Russell Ready To Impact Winning In Any Role As Dallas Mavericks Open Season

D’Angelo Russell enters his first full season with the Dallas Mavericks focused on one thing — winning. Whether starting or coming off the bench, the veteran guard says his mindset won’t change as the team prepares for its regular-season opener against the San Antonio Spurs tonight at American Airlines Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. CST.

“Be a basketball player whenever I get in the game,” Russell said at shootaround. “Like I said, it just comes down to winning and finishing the game. However, I can help finish a game if need be — and always impact winning — is my goal as well.”

During pre-game media availability, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd confirmed the team would start Cooper Flagg, P.J. Washington, and Klay Thompson on the perimeter next to Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II. However, Kidd emphasized that the team is experimenting with lineups and combinations can change as the season plays out.

“We just felt that group was really good on both ends. We want to start strong defensively and offensively,” Kidd said. “But it’s a long season — last year we used a lot of different lineups. This doesn’t mean it’s our starting lineup all season. It could change on Friday. We’re still finding the right combinations that help us win. That’s the beauty of our roster — we have multiple guys who can start or come off the bench.”

Staying Consistent and Prepared

Russell averaged 12.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 58 games during the 2024–25 season. In preseason play, he logged steady minutes across multiple lineups, averaging 6.0 points and 4.0 assists over his final three appearances.

“I think we just stayed consistent through and through,” Russell said of training camp and preseason. “That’s a testament to what we need to do to sustain a long season. Like I said, it’s our first shootaround — energy’s high, carried over from training camp. So we’re ready.”

For Russell, his approach doesn’t shift depending on lineup or role. He views consistency in preparation as key to success over an 82-game season.

“It gets repetitive — your approach to the game, the way you want to get your mind and body right before the season,” he said. “I think the sooner you do that, the better. Training camp gives you an opportunity to start preparing — your routine, your habits, things like that. Fortunately, I got those situated sooner rather than later. So whatever the role is for me, I’m ready.”

Jason Kidd Emphasizes Flexibility and Trust

Before the game, Kidd discussed Russell’s role and made clear the team doesn’t view him through a fixed label.

“We’re keeping him as a basketball player,” Kidd said. “We’re not labeling him as a starter or sixth man. He’s going to get enough minutes to help us win — that’s why he’s here. His skill set allows him to set the table for his teammates and score when needed. There might be nights he starts or nights he’s coming off the bench. Either way, he’s going to play a big role.”

Kidd praised Russell’s professionalism and leadership during training camp, pointing to his willingness to adapt and prioritize team success.

“When you have guys like D’Angelo and P.J. [Washington] talking about sacrifice — that’s leadership,” Kidd said. “They could easily start, play 35 minutes, and take all the shots. But they understand the depth of this team and what’s being asked of them. They’re setting the example by doing what’s best for the team.”

That team-first approach aligns perfectly with Russell’s message — focusing on winning regardless of his position in the rotation.

Ready for the Moment

Under Kidd, the Mavericks have been implementing new offensive concepts designed to enhance spacing and ball movement. Russell said the team’s buy-in has been immediate.

“I think as a collective, we trust coach,” he said. “Whatever he’s trying to implement, we go right out and try to make it translate for our group. So whatever he’s saying, we trust it.”

Russell also reflected on rookie forward Cooper Flagg, who will make his NBA debut on opening night. The 29-year-old guard said Flagg’s maturity and support system have him prepared for the moment.

“I think he’s ready,” Russell said. “His support system has kept him ready and mentally prepared for this opportunity. You’ve got guys like Kyrie and AD too who can put that bug in his ear, but he’s got a good team around him that’s going to keep him prepared for these opportunities and situations.”

Kidd echoed a similar sentiment about Flagg’s readiness.

“Cooper’s going to be fine,” Kidd said. “It’s basketball — he enjoys playing, he has fun, and I think he’ll be great tonight.”

Looking Ahead to Opening Night

For Russell, no matter how many years he’s played, the anticipation of Opening Night remains special.

“It’s that first chance to finally go out and compete for real — the lights, the energy, the buildup,” he said. “Everybody’s excited to start the journey.”