The Dallas Mavericks’ search for a new head coach appears increasingly focused on three prominent NBA assistants as the franchise begins a pivotal offseason following a 26-56 campaign.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, there is a “persistent belief in coaching circles” that Toronto Raptors assistant Jama Mahlalela, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori and Houston Rockets assistant Royal Ivey remain firmly in the mix as Dallas evaluates candidates to replace Jason Kidd.
Stein added that Mahlalela has worked more closely with new Mavericks president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri than any of the publicly known candidates.
The coaching search comes at a critical moment for a franchise attempting to rebound from a disappointing season. Dallas finished 12th in the Western Conference with a 26-56 record, missing the postseason by a wide margin despite receiving an outstanding rookie season from Cooper Flagg.
Flagg emerged as the clear foundation of the franchise’s rebuild. The 19-year-old averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists across 70 games while earning Rookie of the Year honors. He was one of only three Mavericks to average at least 15 points per game, alongside Naji Marshall (15.2) and P.J. Washington (14.2).
Nori has long been regarded as one of the league’s most respected assistants. He helped Minnesota post a 49-33 record and secure the sixth seed in the Western Conference this season. Nori gained national recognition during previous playoff runs when he assumed increased responsibilities on the sideline and has developed a reputation for offensive creativity and player development.
Ivey enters the process after helping Houston complete a significant turnaround under head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets finished 52-30, good for fifth place in the Western Conference, after posting one of the conference’s best year-over-year improvements. Ivey, a former NBA guard, has steadily built support around the league through his defensive expertise and leadership skills.
Mahlalela may possess the strongest existing connection to Dallas’ new leadership structure. He worked extensively with Ujiri during their time together with the Raptors organization and has held several developmental and assistant coaching roles throughout Toronto’s recent era of success. That familiarity could become a significant factor if Ujiri prioritizes organizational alignment while making his first major coaching hire in Dallas.
Veteran coach Terry Stotts also remains among the previously reported candidates. Stotts brings by far the most head coaching experience of the known finalists after compiling a 402-318 regular-season record during nine seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers and leading the franchise to eight consecutive playoff appearances.
The Mavericks have also explored options outside NBA assistant ranks, including preliminary interest in college coaches Jon Scheyer and Dusty May. However, Stein’s latest report suggests the focus remains heavily on experienced NBA assistants.
With the 2026 NBA Draft approaching and Dallas holding the No. 9 overall pick, the coaching decision will help determine the direction of a franchise entering a new era under Ujiri.
