Mavs Host Fan Jam Before Preseason Opener: Key Practice Observations & Injury Updates
The Dallas Mavericks open their preseason schedule against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday at the American Airlines Center. On Sunday, the Mavs held an open practice for fans to see many new members of the team, including Naji Marshall and Quentin Grimes.
The day also included the Mavs’ annual “Toast to Tipoff” celebration, featuring messages from general manager and president of basketball operations Nico Harrison, head coach Jason Kidd, and chief executive officer Cynt Marshall.
Dallas Mavericks Fan Jam Recap
Klay Thompson did not end up playing in the game despite fans giving a series of emphatic “We want Klay!” chants. However, Luka Dončić (left calf contusion) and Kyrie Irving did not play either but instead coached the two teams. Luka’s squad, the Blue Team, won 88-79. Dereck Lively II posted a 20-point, 10-rebound performance for the Blue Team, while A.J. Lawson led the White Team with 23 points.
Marshall, who had 19 points for the Blue Team, told reporters after Fan Jam that the experience was “pretty cool.” He felt the attendance was higher than he’s seen at similar events in his NBA career. “I’ve had a lot of open practices, but I’ve never seen that many fans,” he said. “I’m just excited to play in front of them.”
After spending four seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans to begin his NBA career, Marshall is enjoying his time with the Mavericks so far. Being part of a new team is still something that he’s getting used to as the season begins.
“It still feels amazing to me. From the time I made the decision to come here, it felt unreal.” Marshall explained. “It’s definitely my first switch in the NBA too, so it feels a little crazy, like I’m going back to the Pelicans soon or something. But nah, I’m happy to be here.”
Dončić had a lot of fun drawing up plays and coaching from the sideline. Marshall co-signed Dončić’s coaching skills as “unbelievable.”
The “We want Klay!” chants were very apparent to everyone in the building and Marshall understood, saying, “Oh yeah, of course! I would’ve been chanting too if I was a fan, for sure,” he said, before assuring fans they’ll enjoy what Thompson has in store once the games start. “But he’s holding it down, he’ll be here soon.”
Dallas Mavericks Injury Updates, Including Luka Dončić
The Mavericks did hold a closed practice before the event. Luka Dončić was not on the court as he continues to heal from a left calf contusion, but he coached the Blue Team at Mavs Fan Jam. Jason Kidd already communicated there being “no concern” about Dončić’s status for the regular season. However, he will not play against the Grizzlies.
Maxi Kleber and Kessler Edwards have dealt with ankle injuries that sidelined them for much of training camp in Las Vegas. Neither player competed during Fan Jam.
As pictured below, Danté Exum is now wearing a brace over his right wrist, which he injured in training camp. There has yet to be an update provided about the severity or a potential timetable for his return.
More medical updates could come during Kidd’s pre-game media availability on Monday. Exum’s injury will undoubtedly be one to monitor, considering how competitive the backcourt rotation will be behind Dončić and Kyrie Irving this season. Without Exum, players like Spencer Dinwiddie or Jaden Hardy could see increased opportunities to fill the void.
Observations from Sunday’s Dallas Mavericks Practice
Before the excitement of Fan Jam, the Mavericks held a closed practice on Sunday. It was the first time the team practiced in Dallas since returning from training camp at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). This session offered a glimpse into the team’s ongoing preparation for the season.
Dereck Lively II continually earned rave reviews from Jason Kidd and his teammates throughout training camp, between his improvement in the post, finishing with both hands, and his three-point shooting. Considering he’s already an elite interior paint finisher and a dynamic rim protector and rebounder, he appears primed to take another step after averaging 8.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in his rookie season. It’s easy to see why he’s continued to improve. Much like he did throughout the offseason, Lively was putting in reps with assistant coach Sean Sweeney, accompanied by Tyson Chandler, after practice.
Klay Thompson is motivated to have a strong first season with the Mavericks. Along with fellow newcomer Quentin Grimes, Thompson has been putting in a lot of extra work on the practice floor after practices. This was his first time doing it at the American Airlines Center practice court ahead of Fan Jam.
The Mavericks competed in a two-team spot-shooting drill, with Irving and Thompson both being on the same team. As one might expect, it’s difficult to take down a team with one of the “Splash Brothers” on it.
A few wrinkles included shooting off corner drifts and shake-ups. Thompson’s brilliance as a shooter stood out, but it was also noticeable how disciplined Olivier-Maxence Prosper was with his shooting mechanics, making it a point to hold his follow-through.
What’s Next?
The Mavericks’ preseason opener against the Grizzlies tips off at 7:00 p.m. CT at the American Airlines Center. A stream is available on Mavs.com. This will mark the first chance to see most of the new-look squad coming off an NBA Finals appearance.
