What happened: Austin Reaves previously detailed having daily conversations with Luka Doncic during the summer break. The guard also secured his long-term future on July 14 by agreeing to a four-year, $180 million contract extension. That new agreement includes a player option for the 2029-30 season.

Why it matters: Front-office executives have been actively retooling the supporting cast around Doncic by shopping Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt. The organization explored a salary dump involving Vanderbilt on July 10 to create cap flexibility for a potential Jonathan Kuminga deal. Meanwhile, former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban initiated a lawsuit on July 9 over the trade that relocated Doncic.

What to watch: Roster moves remain possible as front-office personnel finalize the rotation ahead of 2026-27 training camp.