The Mavericks are nearing Santi Aldama’s debut as he returns from right knee surgery, while Cooper Flagg and Walter Clayton delivered standout performances in a win over Miami. Former majority owner Mark Cuban also said the sale of his controlling stake taught him hard lessons about trusting business partners.

By the Numbers
  • Flagg played 40 minutes and recorded 29 points, 11 assists, six rebounds, five steals and three blocks.
  • Clayton scored 15 points and had four assists with a team-best plus-22 in 17 minutes.
  • Dallas beat Miami 113-109 on the road.
Yes, But

Aldama’s full participation in G League scrimmages is an encouraging sign, but he has yet to make his Mavericks debut after undergoing knee surgery. Cuban, meanwhile, expected to keep overseeing basketball operations after selling his controlling stake, but that arrangement did not happen.

State of Play
  • Aldama practiced with the Texas Legends as part of his return-to-play process.
  • Flagg returned from a sprained left shoulder and matched his career high in assists.
  • Clayton said his move to Dallas has been seamless after an uneven rookie season split between Memphis and Utah.
What's Next

Aldama’s return could be approaching, though the team has not announced a debut date. Coach Dusty May expects Flagg’s playmaking to keep growing and said he could eventually post 15- or 20-assist games.

Bottom Line

Dallas has encouraging signs from its returning forward and young playmakers, while Cuban’s account underscores how the franchise’s ownership transition reshaped his role.