Mavericks Court Dirk Nowitzki After Luka Trade

Merlin sees the Mavericks courting Dirk Nowitzki after his recent jumbotron appearance. ESPN's Tim MacMahon called it an olive branch from new leader Patrick Dumont, saying "The Luka trade was the absolute last straw" and that Dirk would not be part of the club while Nico Harrison ran basketball operations. Dirk's presence and his son Max in a Cooper Flagg jersey signaled openness, and he reportedly wants "some input in the team's decision-making" rather than a formal front-office job. Merlin senses that bringing Dallas' greatest player back into the fold would steady the franchise as it hands the torch to No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. An informal advisory role could fast-track Flagg's growth and soothe a jittery fanbase, but real influence will take trust and patient work from both sides.