The Dallas Mavericks have waived veteran center Dwight Powell, bringing an end to his 12-season run with the franchise. The decision was announced on October 19, 2026, marking the departure of one of the team’s longest-serving players and a respected presence in the Dallas locker room.
Powell’s exit comes as the Mavericks prepare for the start of the new NBA season on Wednesday. With Dallas focused on rebuilding its roster and developing younger talent, the veteran center’s future with the organization had become uncertain.
Why Did the Mavericks Waive Dwight Powell?
The Dallas Mavericks waived Dwight Powell as the team finalized its roster ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. According to reports, retaining Powell would have required Dallas to waive another player with a guaranteed contract.
The Mavericks are in a rebuilding phase, making roster flexibility and opportunities for younger players important considerations. Powell, 35, had signed shortly before training camp, leaving his place on the final roster uncertain.
Although Powell made the most of his opportunities during the preseason, the Mavericks ultimately decided to move forward without him. His departure also ends a debate among fans about whether Dallas should retain the experienced center or prioritize the development of younger players, including Moussa Cisse.
The Mavericks’ roster now stands at 17 players, including two two-way players.
Dwight Powell’s Mavericks Career and Franchise Records
Dwight Powell spent 12 seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, becoming one of the most consistent and dependable role players in franchise history. While he was rarely the team’s leading scorer, his energy, rebounding, defensive effort and willingness to handle difficult assignments made him valuable.
According to the Mavericks, Powell ranks among the franchise’s all-time leaders in several statistical categories:
- Fourth in career field-goal percentage: 60.6%
- Fifth in games played: 763
- Sixth in offensive rebounds: 1,187
- Sixth in total rebounds: 3,251
- 10th in blocks: 330
Powell’s 763 appearances place him fifth in Dallas Mavericks history, a significant achievement for a player who built his career through hard work and consistent contributions rather than superstar-level scoring.
Across his 12 seasons in Dallas, Powell averaged 6.5 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.0 assist in 17.3 minutes per game.
Dwight Powell’s 2025-26 Season Stats
Powell remained a contributor during the 2025-26 NBA season, appearing in 63 games for Dallas, including 12 starts.
His season averages were:
- Points per game: 3.3
- Rebounds per game: 4.1
- Assists per game: 1.1
- Minutes per game: 14.3
During the 2026 preseason, Powell appeared in three of the Mavericks’ four games. He averaged 1.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 12.1 minutes per game.
Although his role had diminished compared with earlier years, Powell continued to provide experience and support for his teammates. His contributions extended beyond the box score, particularly through his communication, work ethic and willingness to do the less glamorous jobs required of a center.
Masai Ujiri Praises Dwight Powell After Mavericks Departure
Mavericks president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri praised Powell following the announcement, highlighting the veteran’s professionalism, commitment and impact on the Dallas community.
Ujiri described Powell as a tireless worker and an outstanding teammate whose influence extended beyond basketball. He also emphasized that Powell would always remain part of the Mavericks family.
The statement reflected the appreciation Powell earned throughout his long tenure with the organization. Even though the team decided to move in a different direction, the Mavericks acknowledged his importance to the franchise and the people around it.
Dwight Powell’s Impact Went Beyond Statistics
Powell’s value to the Mavericks was not always fully reflected in his scoring numbers. Throughout his career, he was known for setting screens, rolling toward the basket, battling for offensive rebounds and providing energy whenever he entered a game.
His teammates frequently recognized those contributions. Former Mavericks guard Spencer Dinwiddie notably explained Powell’s importance in a widely discussed video in 2022, describing the qualities that made the center valuable to the team.
Powell’s reputation as a reliable teammate helped him maintain a place in Dallas for more than a decade. His willingness to accept a supporting role and prioritize team needs made him an important presence through different roster changes and competitive periods.
He also contributed to the Dallas community through charitable initiatives, including the Dwight Powell Children and Family Support Program.
What Is Next for Dwight Powell?
The Mavericks’ announcement ends Powell’s current tenure in Dallas, but it does not necessarily mark the end of his NBA career. His next destination, if he continues playing, remains uncertain based on the information provided.
His experience, professionalism and history of efficient finishing could make him a potential option for a team seeking veteran frontcourt depth and leadership. However, no new team or contract has been confirmed in the supplied reports.
For Dallas, the decision signals a continued focus on shaping the roster for the future. Younger players will have opportunities to develop, while Powell’s departure creates another significant change for a franchise preparing for a new season.
Conclusion
Dwight Powell’s departure marks the end of an important chapter in Dallas Mavericks history. After 12 seasons and 763 games, he leaves the franchise ranked among its all-time leaders in field-goal percentage, games played, rebounds and blocks.
Although the Mavericks have decided to move forward without him, Powell’s legacy in Dallas extends beyond statistics. His professionalism, effort, leadership and community work made him a valued member of the organization.
As the Mavericks enter the 2026-27 NBA season, fans will remember Powell as a dependable veteran who consistently contributed to the team, even when his work went unnoticed.
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