The debut episode of the Mavs Pulse Podcast dives into Cooper Flagg’s first game, Anthony Davis’ evolving role, and takeaways from the Dallas Mavericks’ preseason opener vs. the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The debut episode of the Mavs Pulse podcast, hosted by Mavs Roundtable's Grant Afseth and 105.3 The Fan's Blake Elliott, broke down the early storylines from the Dallas Mavericks’ preseason opener — led by rookie forward Cooper Flagg’s impressive first showing.

Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, stood out in limited minutes during Dallas’ 106–89 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. He totaled 10 points, six rebounds, three assists and a block in 14 minutes, flashing patience, maturity and versatility well beyond his age.

“He was scoreless in the first quarter, but he was really patient letting the game come to him,” Afseth said on the podcast. “Made some great passes, handled ball pressure and showed poise for an 18-year-old.”

Elliott added that Flagg “looked comfortable from the start” and “took up space in a good way,” noting that the moment didn’t appear too big for him. The hosts pointed to his timing on weak-side rotations, a chase-down block off the glass, and quick-hitting assists to Dereck Lively II as signs of his two-way feel for the game.

The episode also highlighted Max Christie’s impact, particularly his defense and off-ball movement within Jason Kidd’s faster, motion-based offense.

Afseth noted that Christie could push for a larger role if his two-way consistency continues, while Elliott praised his energy and awareness, saying, “Every time Max Christie was on the floor, I felt his presence.”

Elliott and Afseth discussed Anthony Davis’ evolving offensive role, operating more from the elbows and top of the key in Dallas’ new system.

Both agreed it’s “a completely different brand of basketball than Mavs fans are used to,” emphasizing the shift from isolation-heavy sets to quicker reads and multiple actions.

The duo also broke down bench contributions from PJ Washington and Najee Marshall, both aggressive attacking the rim, and examined the backup guard competition among Dante Exum, Brandon Williams and Jaden Hardy as training camp progresses.

New episodes of the Mavs Pulse Podcast will drop twice a week throughout the 2025–26 season, delivering in-depth analysis, behind-the-scenes insight, and interviews across the Dallas Mavericks’ locker room.

Watch the full episode on YouTube, with uploads coming to every major podcasting platform soon.