Mavs Makeover: Flagg’s Fit, Kyrie’s Steady Hand & the Lakers’ Wild Sale | Tim MacMahon | Ep 254

ESPN NBA insider Tim MacMahon joins Mike Rhyner and Michael Gruber for a deep dive into the Dallas Mavericks’ offseason overhaul, breaking down new president Masai Ujiri’s front office approach, rookie Cooper Flagg and Marez Johnson Jr.’s fit under new head coach Jason Kidd’s successor Dusty May, and Kyrie Irving’s surprising role as the team’s steady veteran leader. The conversation also tackles the biggest stories rocking the NBA this offseason, including the wild Kawhi Leonard-Clippers investigation, the stunning Lakers ownership sale, and Tim’s firsthand, jaw-dropping account of the night the Luka Doncic trade broke. Plus, the guys pay tribute to Mavericks legend Don Nelson, discussing his lasting impact on how basketball is played today.
00:00:06 – Cold open and studio banter
Playful pre-show chatter and sound check before the episode officially begins.
00:00:48 – Show intro: Your Dark Companion, August 24 episode
Mike Rhyner opens the show and previews today’s basketball-focused episode.
00:01:18 – Introducing NBA insider Tim MacMahon
Mike Rhyner welcomes ESPN’s Tim MacMahon to discuss the Mavericks.
00:02:59 – Mavericks’ offseason of radical change
Discussion of how dramatically different the Mavericks look heading into the season.
00:03:22 – Hiring Masai Ujiri as president of basketball operations
Tim MacMahon breaks down Ujiri’s track record and why he was the right hire.
00:06:34 – Building around Cooper Flagg
Analysis of Cooper Flagg’s skill set, physical tools, and what type of teammates fit best with him.
00:09:06 – The Mavs’ 2025 draft pick: Mahrez Johnson Jr.
Comparisons to Bam Adebayo and questions about his shooting and position fit.
00:12:05 – Dusty May’s hiring and the draft-night decision
How Dusty May’s Michigan connection factored into (or didn’t) the Johnson pick.
00:14:16 – Getting to know new coach Dusty May
Tim shares what he’s heard about May’s coaching style and relationship-building ability.
00:17:14 – The Clippers/Kawhi Leonard legal drama
Discussion of the stalled Kawhi-to-Toronto trade and the ongoing NBA investigation.
00:20:12 – Pablo Torre’s reporting on the Clippers story
Praise for journalist Pablo Torre’s steady drip of revelations.
00:21:48 – Mavericks front office philosophy and need for a second star
Tim explains the “singles” approach this offseason and the need for a co-star for Cooper Flagg.
00:25:03 – Kyrie Irving’s surprising leadership role
Tim reflects on how Kyrie has become a steady, mentoring presence in Dallas.
00:28:33 – Kyrie’s personal history and public perception
A deeper look at Kyrie’s past struggles and growth since joining the Mavericks.
00:32:48 – Mid-show sponsor read: Dudley’s Sports Grill
Mike Rhyner reads the fantasy draft party and lobster fest promotion.
00:35:08 – Tim MacMahon’s ESPN role and career background
Quick discussion of Tim’s title and years in sports journalism.
00:36:13 – The stunning sale of the Los Angeles Lakers
Breakdown of Mark Walter’s ownership and the sudden Lakers sale news.
00:37:36 – Jeanie Buss, family drama, and the new ownership group
Details on the Buss family conflict and incoming owners Josh Kushner and Bob Iger.
00:40:52 – Revisiting the Luka Dončić trade fallout
Tim recalls the surreal night the trade broke and the chaotic aftermath.
00:46:02 – Mavericks fan reaction and Dirk Nowitzki’s response
Why the trade felt personal, connecting Luka to Dirk’s legacy.
00:50:09 – Tim’s book deadline chaos and awkward island encounter with Nico Harrison
A personal, humorous story about running into Nico Harrison in the Caribbean while finishing his book.
00:55:18 – Remembering Don Nelson’s legacy
Tributes to Nelly’s influence on modern NBA style and his impact on the Mavericks franchise.
00:59:31 – Wrap-up and show close
Mike Rhyner thanks Tim MacMahon, promotes upcoming events, and signs off.