Depth and tough choices define Dallas's final lineup. Key players waived as contracts are finalized, setting the stage for opening night.
The Dallas Mavericks made a series of difficult roster decisions ahead of opening night, waiving Dalano Banton, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, and Dennis Smith Jr. while finalizing their two contracts and G League assignments. The moves reflected the team’s deep competition throughout camp and the growing difficulty of balancing development with roster limits.
Banton appeared in one preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 15, finishing with three points, two rebounds, one assist, and one steal in six minutes. Robinson-Earl played in all four contests and averaged 7.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 12.2 minutes per game, highlighted by a nine-point outing against Charlotte.
Smith, who returned to the franchise that drafted him ninth overall in 2017, appeared in two games after suffering an early-camp injury but was praised for his defensive effort and leadership.
Head coach Jason Kidd said Robinson-Earl’s consistency and professionalism stood out during camp, calling the decision to waive him one of the toughest of the preseason.
“When you talk about him being a pro — he should be on an NBA roster,” Kidd told RG.org. “When you look at what he does, he’s consistent. He comes to work every day and does his job. He can shoot it, he can pass it, he can defend. It’s really sad that he’s not on an NBA roster for whatever reason. But I’ve really enjoyed coaching him.”
While Dallas holds the G League rights to both Robinson-Earl and Banton, Smith’s rights remain with the Wisconsin Herd — the Milwaukee Bucks’ affiliate. The Mavericks would need to complete a trade to acquire those rights if they wish to add him to the Texas Legends roster.
Dallas also finalized its two-way contracts, converting Moussa Cissé after a strong preseason. The 6-foot-10 shot blocker totaled six points, 12 rebounds, and seven blocks in three games, earning recognition from Kidd for his progress and consistency.
“It’s great. He’s earned it,” Kidd said. “He’s had a heck of a preseason and training camp. What he’s done in practice and in games has been at a high level. We’re really excited to have him.”
Cissé called the moment the culmination of years of work and faith.
“It feels great,” Cissé said. “After all the hours in the gym, having an opportunity like this — it’s a dream come true. I’m really grateful.”
The Mavericks also made several short-term signings to bolster their G League pipeline, adding forward Matt Cross, center Jamarion Sharp and guard Zhaire Smith before later waiving them. All three are expected to join the Texas Legends.
Cross averaged 11.8 points and 7.6 rebounds last season at SMU, Sharp averaged 6.4 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.2 blocks with the Legends, and Smith — a former first-round pick — posted 20.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game for Texas last season.
With training camp concluded, Dallas enters the regular season with 18 players, including three on Two-Way contracts: Cissé, Ryan Nembhard and Miles Kelly. The Mavericks open the season Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs.