What happened: P.J. Washington expressed anticipation for seeing Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving play together as training camp opens. The comments came during the Mavericks' media day availabilities.

Why it matters: The pairing connects the incoming prospect with the veteran guard. Irving is working his way back from a 2025 ACL tear, and the franchise has reportedly rebuffed recent trade inquiries to evaluate the intact roster.

What to watch: The new combination gets its first live action as preseason exhibition games begin.