Mavericks responding to Dusty May’s approach: ‘He’s speaking life into you’

The Mavericks needed some energy after everything they’ve been through. From the sound of things, Dusty May is supplying plenty.

Just ask Daniel Gafford.

“I love him to death. It’s been a minute since I’ve experienced the type of coaching that he has. He’s so energetic,” Gafford told 105.3 The Fan, via Austin Veazey of Mavericks On SI.

“He emphasizes everything. And one thing he’s going to do is hold guys accountable.”

That last part comes with most coaching introductions. Everybody promises accountability. Getting players to respond to it is where the work begins.

Gafford suggested May is finding that balance.

“At the same time, as he’s holding you accountable, he’s speaking life into you,” Gafford said. “He’s going to have a really good career when it comes to a lot of players in this league.”

May arrived from Michigan after winning a national championship, taking over a team that underwent sweeping changes under new basketball boss Masai Ujiri. After the Luka Doncic trade and the upheaval that followed, the Mavericks had plenty to repair.

A few encouraging weeks won’t settle all of that. But having veterans embrace the coach is a useful start.

Veazey pointed to several promising individual developments, including P.J. Washington’s production and Walter Clayton Jr.’s emergence after joining on a two-way contract. He also highlighted Gafford’s renewed confidence and Zaccharie Risacher’s defensive play.

Those are encouraging signs for a team that needs contributions throughout the roster. As we’ve noted, the Mavericks have players who can make life easier for Cooper Flagg.

May’s job is to get those contributions consistently, including when the schedule gets tougher and the shots stop falling. And Gafford sounds like a veteran who welcomes both the demands and the encouragement. That gives May something to build on.