Mavericks Recall G League Star After 27-Point Debut

Dallas brings up A.J. Johnson from Texas Legends amid rash of injuries

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Dallas Mavericks have recalled guard A.J. Johnson from their G League affiliate, the Texas Legends, after he scored 27 points in his debut with the team. The move comes as the Mavericks face a challenging season with a 21-38 record and multiple key injuries, including the absence of rookie Cooper Flagg. Johnson, a 2023 first-round pick, will look to earn a spot on the Mavericks' roster for the future as the team eyes the NBA Draft lottery.

Why it matters

The Mavericks are in rebuilding mode after trading away star player Anthony Davis, and Johnson's recall represents an opportunity for the young guard to prove he deserves a spot on the NBA roster. With the Mavericks focused on the draft, Johnson's performance could impact the team's long-term plans.

The details

A.J. Johnson was recalled by the Mavericks after scoring 27 points on 10-of-14 shooting in his debut with the Texas Legends, the team's G League affiliate. The Mavericks currently have five players ruled out for their upcoming game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, including the recent downgrade of Naji Marshall to doubtful. Johnson's recall will give head coach Jason Kidd another ball-handling option to use if needed. Johnson is averaging 3.0 points in 32 games this season, his second in the NBA after being traded from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Washington Wizards last year.

  • The Mavericks have a 21-38 record this season.
  • Johnson was recalled from the G League on March 1, 2026.
  • The Mavericks are without star rookie Cooper Flagg for the last six games.

The players

Dallas Mavericks

An NBA team that is less than two seasons removed from making it to the NBA Finals but is now facing a challenging season with a 21-38 record and multiple key injuries.

A.J. Johnson

A 2023 first-round draft pick who was recently traded from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Washington Wizards and is now with the Dallas Mavericks. He is looking to earn a spot on the Mavericks' roster for the future.

Cooper Flagg

A rookie player for the Dallas Mavericks who has been out for the last six games due to injury.

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What’s next

If Johnson wants the Mavericks to keep him on their squad as part of the future, he'll have to earn it on the court with his performance over the rest of the season as the team eyes the NBA Draft lottery.

The takeaway

The Mavericks' decision to recall A.J. Johnson from the G League represents an opportunity for the young guard to prove he deserves a spot on the NBA roster as the team rebuilds and looks toward the future. Johnson's performance could impact the Mavericks' long-term plans as they aim to return to contention.