The Mavericks head into Phoenix with their new franchise cornerstone, Cooper Flagg, continuing to evolve into one of the league’s most dynamic two‑way forces. His blend of size, skill, and defensive instincts has reshaped Dallas’ identity, giving them a different look from the Dončić‑led teams of past seasons. The Suns, meanwhile, remain one of the West’s most explosive offensive units, especially at home, where their stars thrive in high‑tempo environments.

This matchup features contrasting styles: Dallas’ methodical, physical approach built around Flagg’s versatility versus Phoenix’s fast-paced, perimeter-heavy attack. Both teams are fighting for playoff positioning, and this game could carry tiebreaker implications down the stretch.

Game Details

Date: February 10, 2026

Time: 9:00 PM ET

Location: Footprint Center — Phoenix, AZ

TV/Streaming: TNT, Bally Sports Southwest, Suns Live, NBA League Pass

Odds: Suns -4.5 | O/U 234.5 | Suns -175 ML, Mavericks +145 ML

Team Form & Recent Results

Dallas Mavericks Recent Form

• Cooper Flagg has quickly become the centerpiece of the offense and a defensive anchor.
• Dallas has shown improved balance, with better rim protection and more consistent wing scoring.
• Still prone to offensive droughts when spacing breaks down, but the defense keeps them competitive.

Phoenix Suns Recent Form

• The Suns continue to light up the scoreboard, especially at home.
• Their stars have found a rhythm, with improved ball movement and shot selection.
• Defensive consistency remains a question, but their offensive ceiling is elite.

Key Storylines

• Can Phoenix handle Cooper Flagg’s two-way impact? His ability to defend multiple positions and initiate offense makes him a matchup problem.
• Will the Suns’ perimeter shooting overwhelm Dallas? Phoenix thrives when it gets hot early.
• Which supporting cast steps up? Both teams rely heavily on role players to hit open threes.
• Can Dallas control the pace? Slowing Phoenix down is essential to keeping this close.

Players to Watch

Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg — F A rising superstar whose defensive instincts, shot creation, and versatility have transformed the Mavericks. His performance will dictate Dallas’ ceiling in this matchup.

Phoenix Suns

Devin Booker — G A polished scorer who thrives in big moments. His efficiency and leadership set the tone for Phoenix’s offense.

Matchup Breakdown

Offense vs. Defense

Dallas’ offense now runs through Flagg’s ability to create mismatches, attack from the mid‑post, and facilitate from the elbows. Their improved spacing helps, but they still rely on grinding out possessions.

Phoenix plays with more pace, using quick-hitting actions to free Booker and their secondary scorers. Their ability to stretch the floor forces defenses into tough rotations.

Defensively, Dallas has the edge thanks to Flagg’s presence, but Phoenix’s shot-making can erase even strong defensive sequences.

Coaching / Strategy Notes

Dallas will try to slow the game down, use Flagg as a point-forward, and force Phoenix into half-court sets where their defense excels. Expect plenty of inverted screens and post mismatches.

Phoenix will push tempo, run early offense, and use staggered screens to create open looks. They’ll try to pull Flagg away from the rim and attack Dallas’s weaker perimeter defenders.

Prediction

Prediction: Suns 121, Mavericks 113

Dallas’ defense keeps them competitive, but Phoenix’s home-court advantage and offensive firepower give them the edge. Flagg will have standout moments, but the Suns’ depth and shot-making should carry them late.

How to Watch

TV channel / Local broadcasts: TNT, Bally Sports Southwest, Suns Live

Streaming: TNT app, NBA League Pass

Radio: 98.7 FM Arizona Sports, 97.1 The Eagle (Dallas)

FAQ

Q: What time is the Mavericks vs. Suns game? A: Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET.

Q: Who is favored to win? A: The Suns are slight home favorites.

Q: Where is the game being played? A: Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

Q: What are the betting odds? A: Suns -175 ML, Suns -4.5 spread, over/under 234.5.

Conclusion

This matchup showcases one of the league’s brightest young stars in Cooper Flagg against one of its most polished scorers in Devin Booker. Dallas’ defensive improvements give them a fighting chance, but Phoenix’s pace, shooting, and home-court advantage make them the safer pick. Expect a competitive, entertaining game with playoff-level intensity.